If you’re looking for a little slice of nature near the bustling city of Washington, DC, Theodore Roosevelt Island is the place for it. With trails bordering the Potomac and wildlife teeming all around, it is a beautiful escape amidst such a large city.

So what should you expect from this endearing little island?

Basic Facts

• Hours: 6am to 10pm
• Fee: $0
• Annual visitor count: 160,000 people
• Pets: Pets are permitted on the island as long as they are leashed
• Parking: Free, but can be an absolute nightmare. Avoid driving if possible, and use one of the other methods listed below.
• Bathrooms and water: There are portable toilets and water fountains at the base of the island. I would still recommend preparing elsewhere and not relying on these, because they are occasionally unavailable.

When to go: As far as the time of day, try to go as early as possible (before 9am is best). With a whopping 160,000 visitors annually, and the longest trail only being 1.8mi, you do the math. This island can feel very very crowded! As far as what time of year to go, I highly recommend the Fall to experience the beautiful foliage.

Getting to Theodore Roosevelt Island

Theodore Roosevelt Island is technically in Washington, DC, but the only way to get to it by land is through Arlington, VA. There are a handful of ways to get to it, some easier than others. My suggestions are listed below, in order of how I recommend them.

1. Metro: It is a 15-minute walk from the Rosslyn metro station. It’s easily accessible and once you arrive, you’ll be stunned that it is so close to a train station!

2. Capital bikeshare: Park at Gravelly Point (free) near the airport. A regular red bike will cost you around $2 one-way, and an e-bike will come to around $4. You can also rent a bike in Rosslyn for an even quicker trip. Pro-tip: check on the app to make sure there are bike slots available at the island so you aren’t stuck paying for the bike while you explore the island. Note that bikes are not allowed on the island itself. 
3. Kayak: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak from Key Bridge Boathouse for $24/hr and then kayak across the Potomac to the island.
4. Uber: Yes, I would recommend ubering before I’d recommend driving  yourself. The parking situation isn’t great. Which brings  me to…
5. Self-driving: only as a last resort would I recommend driving yourself. I’ve had to wait 30 minutes just waiting for a spot. It was rather stressful, and I wouldn’t recommend it. Perhaps if you get there early enough, like before 8am, you might be ok. 

It’s also worth noting that the island is 4 miles from the airport, so if you’re flying into the area, I’d recommend this island being your first stop!

Related: How The DC Metro Works

Related: Everything You Need to Know about the Capital Bikeshare

A bridge connects from the mainland to the island

Hiking/Jogging Trails on Theodore Roosevelt Island

There are three recognized trails on the official website, and one additional trail recognized by AllTrails.

Swamp Trail: This is a 1.5mi loop made of both gravel and boardwalk. It passes through the swampy woods and cattail marsh.

Woods Trail: This half mile trail passes through the heart of the island: the memorial plaza. It’s a breathtaking view, containing the 17ft tall monument of Roosevelt.

Upland Trail: This three quarter-mile trail traverses the length of the island. 

AllTrails Theodore Roosevelt Island Trail: This is the trail I’d recommend for most people. It circles the whole island like Swamp Trail, but also passes through the memorial plaza like Woods Trail. The best of both worlds! It is 1.8mi long, and I’d recommend going counter-clockwise.

You might also like: Best Hikes Near Washington DC

Memorial Plaza

In the middle of the park is a 17ft statue of Theodore Roosevelt. Surrounding it are stones with quotes, and large fountains. It is a very serene, peaceful place. There are also ample benches in this area. 

The Trail

The main trail is wide and well-maintained.

The gravel turns into boardwalk to experience the marsh!

It’s important to note that a majority of the trail is unrailed boardwalk. I love how connected to nature it can make you feel! However, please always remain on trail, and if you have small children, use extra caution. During certain times of year, the surrounding land can get flooded.

There were ample benches throughout the boardwalk section. Also, peep the Kennedy Center in the background!

This was the only water source I found on the actual island. It was located toward the end of the trail (or toward the beginning, if you’re going clockwise) and is at the fork in the trail between Swamp Trail and Woods Trail. It’s right on the path, so it’d be hard to miss!

Wildlife at Theodore Roosevelt Island

This island is crawling with beautiful wildlife! There are over 200 species of birds that come each year, as well as snakes (don’t worry, none are poisonous), squirrels, and even turkeys! On my most recent visit, a man I passed told me he saw a pack of turkeys running through a section of the trail. I kept my eyes peeled but didn’t see them. Perhaps you will be more lucky!

While there is friendly wildlife, there are also some species to be aware of. Steer clear of the poison ivy, and wear long pants to avoid tick-born illnesses. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, you’ll definitely want to wear bugspray as well. 

Be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles, always!

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