Trail Discovery for Kids

Highlighted Hike

River Trail

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

Washington, DC

 Hike Information

ü  The River trail is wide and flat. It is 1.4 miles out and back.

ü  The trail surface is a mix of gravel and mowed grass. It is stroller-friendly (bigger wheels will work best).

ü  The trail follows a peninsula of land with the Anacostia River on one side and the Kenilworth Marsh on the opposite.

ü  Link to the trail map.

 Age Appropriateness

ü  This hike is great for all ages but in particular toddlers and preschoolers. The trail is a fantastic introduction to hiking and nature.

 What is fun for kids?

ü  July is the best month to go because all the water lilies and lotus flowers are in bloom. It is beautiful!

ü  Having the kids choose which path they want to follow around the many ponds.

ü  Walking the boardwalk to the river.

ü  Riverside access to the Anacostia.

ü  Seeing wildlife – many types of butterflies and dragonflies, bull and green frogs, painted, red-eared and snapping turtles, deer, beaver and a lot of birds.

ü  Small visitor center to educate about marshes.

ü  Great place for nature photography.

ü  Picnic tables in the shade!

 Caution

ü  Hot, hot, hot in the summer! The River Trail is mostly shaded but not the boardwalk or ponds.

ü  Park is open from 7:00 am to 6:30 pm.