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Explore Land Trails In Wards 7 & 8

Wards 7 and 8 are home to a growing network of trails, green spaces, waterways, and natural areas that connect residents to parks, neighborhoods, recreation, and community destinations. Whether you're looking for a scenic walk, a bike ride, a family outing, or a connection to nature, these trails offer opportunities to explore East of the River.

Civil War Defenses of Washington (Circle of Forts)

Approximate Length: 7 Miles

Overview:

A network of existing trail segments connecting Civil War-era forts, historic sites, and parklands across Washington, DC.

Experience:

Wooded trails, rolling terrain, historic landscapes, and opportunities to explore some of the city’s largest natural areas.

Nearby Destinations:

Fort Dupont Park, Fort Davis Park, Fort Stanton Park, and other Civil War Defenses of Washington sites.

Good For:

Walking, hiking, history exploration, nature observation, and outdoor recreation.

Oxon Run Trail

Approximate Length: 3.4 Miles

Overview:

A neighborhood trail that follows Oxon Run through Ward 8, connecting residents to parks, schools, recreation areas, and community spaces.

Experience:

Open green spaces, streamside views, playgrounds, athletic fields, and neighborhood gathering places.

Nearby Destinations:

Oxon Run Park, recreation centers, community gardens, schools, and playgrounds.

Good For:

Walking, biking, family outings, exercise, and community events.

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Anacostia Riverwalk Trail

Approximate Length: 21 miles (regional network)

Overview:

A multi-use trail that follows both sides of the Anacostia River, connecting neighborhoods, parks, waterfront destinations, and regional trail networks throughout Washington, DC.

Experience:

Enjoy river views, wetlands, wildlife, public art, bridges, and open spaces. The trail offers opportunities for recreation, active transportation, and experiencing the Anacostia River up close.

Nearby Destinations:

Anacostia Park, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, Kingman Island, RFK Campus, Navy Yard, and the Anacostia neighborhood.

Good For:

Walking, biking, running, birdwatching, commuting, nature exploration, and family outings.

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Marvin Gaye Park Trail

Approximate Length: 4.1 Miles

Overview:

A multi-use trail running through Marvin Gaye Park, connecting neighborhoods with recreational facilities, green spaces, and community amenities.

Experience:

Active community spaces, gardens, playgrounds, fitness areas, and opportunities to enjoy one of DC’s most successful urban park revitalization projects.

Nearby Destinations:

Marvin Gaye Park, recreation centers, community gardens, and neighborhood commercial corridors.

Good For:

Walking, biking, exercise, family outings, and community gatherings.

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Suitland Parkway Trail

Approximate Length: 1.7 miles within the District

Overview:

A trail corridor that generally follows Suitland Parkway and connects neighborhoods, parks, and destinations in Washington, DC and Maryland.

Experience:

Wooded landscapes, natural scenery, and a quieter experience compared to many urban trails.

Nearby Destinations:

Fort Dupont Park, Hillcrest, neighborhood parks, and regional Maryland trail connections.

Good For:

Walking, biking, nature observation, commuting, and exploring local parks.

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Shepherd Branch Trail

Approximate Length: 3.1 Miles

Overview:

A proposed rail-trail corridor that would transform a former rail line into a multi-use trail connecting neighborhoods East of the River with parks, community destinations, and regional trail networks.

Experience:

Planning efforts envision a green corridor that could provide new opportunities for recreation, active transportation, nature access, and community connection.

Nearby Destinations:

Anacostia Park, Fort Dupont Park, Fairlawn, Penn Branch, Dupont Park, and Hillcrest.

Good For:

Future opportunities for walking, biking, recreation, commuting, and neighborhood connectivity.

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South Capitol Street Trail (Planned)

Approximate Length: 3.8 miles

Overview:

A planned trail corridor intended to improve bicycle and pedestrian connections between neighborhoods, employment centers, parks, and regional trail networks.

Experience:

Future plans envision enhanced mobility, recreation, and transportation options along the South Capitol Street corridor.

Nearby Destinations:

St. Elizabeths East, Congress Heights, Buzzard Point, entertainment venues, and regional trail connections.

Good For:

Future opportunities for walking, biking, commuting, recreation, and neighborhood access.

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Trail Information Disclaimer

The trail information provided is for general educational and informational purposes only. Trail conditions, accessibility, amenities, route alignments, and project status may change over time. Approximate trail lengths are estimates and may vary depending on route selection, access points, and future trail improvements. Visitors should verify current conditions and follow all applicable rules, signage, and guidance from managing agencies and property owners before visiting.