NPS Gallery In the nation’s capital you can hike or bike through the hilltops of Washington, DC on the Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail, walk along the bank of the Potomac River, and marvel at the country’s most iconic memorials.
Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail The Civil War Defenses of Washington is a collection of 17 original forts and batteries located around Washington, DC and managed by the National Park Service. Each of the 17 historic sites within the Civil War Defenses of Washington can be visited by following the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail route. The Civil War Defenses of Washington section of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail can be biked or hiked and offers visitors a brief glimpse into the rich historical past of our nation’s capital during the Civil War. Rock Creek ParkRock Creek Park is a 1,754-acre park located within the hustle and bustle of Washington, DC. Established in 1890, Rock Creek Park is one of the oldest National Parks and has offered residents of the nation’s capital and visitors from across the globe a breath of fresh air within the city for over 130 years. While the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail officially follows just under 5 miles of trails within Rock Creek Park, the Trail links visitors to other recreational opportunities within Rock Creek Park. National Capital Parks EastNational Capital Region-East manages 14 regional park units in Eastern Washington, DC and Prince George’s County, Maryland. The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail connects parks, historical sites, and forts throughout the National Capital Region-East and offers both an immersive historical experience and abundance of recreational opportunity. The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail within the National Capital Region-East connects the Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens to Piscataway Park following the Potomac River. Things to do in Washington, DC |
Last updated: June 16, 2025