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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Parks and outdoors

Anacostia Riverwalk Trail

A scenic, paved trail system winding along the Anacostia River, connecting historic neighborhoods, sports arenas, and lush ecosystems from Bladensburg to the Navy Yard.

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Anacostia Riverwalk Trail
Tim Evanson, CC BY-SA 2.0

What is the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail known for?

It is a paved trail system in Washington, D.C. that serves as a backbone of the Anacostia Waterfront, connecting residents and visitors to the river, wildlife, and various commercial and recreational destinations.

Is it free?

Yes, the trail is free.

What are the hours?

The trail is open year-round during daylight hours.

What activities can I do there?

The trail is great for biking, jogging, strolling, and dog walking. Additionally, roller-skates can be rented from the Anacostia Park Pavilion from Memorial Day until Labor Day.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, pets are welcome as long as they are on a leash that is 6 feet or shorter.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Established in 2004, the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail serves as a vital backbone of the Anacostia Waterfront. This paved trail system is designed to link residents and visitors to a multitude of commercial and recreational destinations. Currently, 12 of the ultimate 20 miles are open and heavily used, though some plans suggest the completed system could eventually span 25 miles to reach the Washington Channel waterfront. The trail offers a diverse natural experience, meandering through 12 miles of forest, fields, marsh, and river ecosystems. As you travel from Bladensburg to the Navy Yard, you will pass the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and have the opportunity to view local wildlife. To assist with navigation, the city completed the installation of mileage markers in 2022. Beyond its natural beauty, the path connects major urban landmarks. It provides seamless access to Nationals Park, the Maine Avenue Fish Market and Wharf, and Historic Anacostia. For those seeking a specific route, the National Park Service suggests a 7.8-mile loop that crosses the river to travel along the west bank. Visitors can also find unique amenities along the way. The trail provides access to the Anacostia Park Pavilion, where roller-skate rentals are available from Memorial Day until Labor Day. The network is highly integrated, connecting to five different bridges across the Anacostia River and various other city bike routes.

Visitor tips

  • The trail is free and open year-round during daylight hours.
  • If bringing a dog, ensure they are on a leash 6 feet or shorter.
  • Visit between Memorial Day and Labor Day if you wish to rent roller-skates at the Anacostia Park Pavilion.
  • Wear comfortable walking or biking shoes as the trail is fully paved and encourages long-distance travel.

Nearby context

The trail acts as a connective artery for the Anacostia Waterfront, linking the National Mall at the Tidal Basin to Bladensburg Marina Park in Maryland. It bridges the gap between the bustling Navy Yard and the quieter, natural landscapes of Anacostia Park.

Sources

Evidence and links