Breathe in the fresh air as we approach the Anacostia River Trail Boardwalk. This isn’t just a path. It’s a journey through history and nature. The Anacostia River Trail Boardwalk offers recreation for residents and tourists. It’s also known as the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail.
The trail winds along the Anacostia River. It stretches from Maryland into southeast D.C. The fully paved surface includes short boardwalk segments. The trail roves the area’s natural riverside for 21.5 miles. You will see wooded areas and marshlands. The trail leads into the rapidly developing southeastern waterfront of the nation’s capital. It provides access to parks, sports fields and landmarks.
Imagine the Nacotchtank people relying on this river. They used it for fishing and drinking. Later, Bladensburg became a thriving colonial port in 1749. It fostered transatlantic trade of goods and enslaved people. By 1840, runoff accumulation made the river too shallow for ships. The port closed.
In 1799, the Washington Navy Yard was established. It bolstered the U.S.’s shipbuilding capability. American soldiers purposefully burned it down during the War of 1812. This prevented seizure by the British before it was rebuilt.
At the start of the 1900s, Congress urged developing the lands along the Anacostia. They envisioned gardens and public recreation space. In the 1920s and 30s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredged the riverbed. They constructed seawalls and turned marshy banks into dry land. This move caused the ecosystem to decline. Pollution and development worsened it throughout the 20th century.
But here’s some smart-aleck knowledge for you. The Anacostia River Trail has been undergoing improvements to its environmental quality.
As you stroll along the Boardwalk, notice Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens. Operated by the National Park Service, this gem is free and open year-round. The trail links directly to the park’s winding boardwalks. Beginning at Benning Road NE, the trail spans both sides of the Anacostia.
On the western bank, the trail skirts the abandoned RFK Stadium. This was a longtime DC sporting landmark until 2019. Here, you can also access the Kingman and Heritage Island State Conservation Area. It is a man-made, forested island within the river.
The eastern bank continues south through a forested segment. It crosses a CSX railyard. Then it proceeds through the Anacostia Park waterfront. You will find recreation centers and playgrounds. There is even a pirate ship-themed playground with an adult fitness station.
Two river crossings connect Anacostia Park eastward. These connect to the parallel trail on the western bank of the river. You can cross the John Phillip Sousa Bridge at Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Or you can use the 11th Street Bridge.
The southern end of the western bank passes along the Navy Yard waterfront. Here you’ll find marinas and U.S. Naval monuments. New riverfront developments offer dining and entertainment options near Nationals Park.
At South Capitol Street Southeast, the trail makes its southernmost crossing. It crosses between the riverbanks over the Frederick Douglass Bridge. A westbound spur at P Street SW and 4th Street SW takes you to the Wharf. This is a marina and entertainment district along Wharf Street SW.
The Anacostia River Trail Boardwalk is more than just a trail. It’s a symbol of resilience. It represents the ongoing effort to reconnect with nature. It highlights the importance of preserving our environment. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you. Consider the history beneath your feet.