Summer is a great time to get out and experience the variety of activities that Washington D.C. has to offer. From hiking and swimming to flying through the air, here are our five favorite activities to get active around D.C. this summer!
1. Walk, Run or Bike on One of the Many Trails in the D.C. Area
Washington DC has many paved and maintained trails that provide nearly endless miles of biking, walking or running. The Capital Crescent Trail goes 11 miles from Georgetown to Silver Spring, MD and offers beautiful Potomac River views and traverses through tunnels and over bridges. The Mt. Vernon trail runs along the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and connects George Washington’s home in Virginia to Roosevelt Island.
This trail system connects to many other systems in Virginia and D.C., making it ideal for logging some serious miles! You can also check out the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, which connects the Anacostia riverfront to the southwest waterfront and the National Arboretum.
2. Kayak, Paddle Board, Row or Sail on the Potomac River
It’s not summer without water sports! D.C. benefits from being near two bodies of water, the Potomac and Anacostia rivers. Summer is a great time to get out on a boat, whether human-powered or wind-powered.
D.C. Sail is a community sailing program that provides opportunities to learn how to sail for adults and children. Kayak, row or sail by the Nationals ballpark for great views or launch from near the Key Bridge for beautiful waterfront and monument views.
3. Check Out Some Nearby Hiking Trails
D.C. is home to many beautiful hiking spots, and you don’t even need to leave the city! Rock Creek Park has miles of wooded trails and even provides opportunities to go horseback riding on the grounds.
A little further outside of the city is Great Falls National Park, which is known for its stunning water views and challenging trails.
4. Go for a Swim in One of D.C.’s Outdoor Public Pools.
It gets quite hot and humid in the middle of summer so take advantage of one of the many public swimming pools. If you are a DC resident, access to the pools is free! It’s just $7 for non-DC residents.
Surrounding counties, such as Arlington County and Montgomery County, also have public pools to help you cool off.
5. Take Up Flying at the Trapeze School
Last but certainly not least, this off-the-beaten-path activity is fun for adults and children alike.
If you’ve ever wanted to be in the circus or just want to practice your acrobatics, they offer a variety of classes in trapeze, silks, juggling, and trampoline.
Summer is one of the best times in D.C. to get outside and go for an adventure on land, water, or air. And as always, if you need a quick screening before increasing your physical activity, contact your SetPT office to schedule an appointment!
