Mount Vernon Trail

The 18-mile Mount Vernon Trail is a popular hiking destination for Washington DC city-dwellers, suburban residents in Maryland and Virginia, and visitors to the US Capital, many with their leashed fur-babies in tow! 

The trail extends from Theodore Roosevelt Island and its boardwalks, and winds along the Potomac River parallel to the GW Memorial Parkway, ending at the furtastic Mount Vernon estate of George Washington south of Alexandria. With pawsome views of DC and its inspiring monuments, the river and the beautiful  shoreline are on offer. It also makes connections with other pupular trails such as the Potomac Heritage Trail near DCA, the Custis Trail near Roosevelt Island, and Rock Creek. Parking is available at all the historic sites along the trail, with the exception of Lady Bird Johnson Park and the Navy-Marine Memorial. Alternative parking is noted on these two websites.

Restrooms, drinking water and trash receptacles are available along the route. Be sure to carry waste bags and be prepared to pick up your fur-baby’s donations to the trail and deposit them in the nearest waste can! Bicyclists and inline skaters use this trail, and there are a few intersections to watch out for, but the vast majority of the trail is relatively quiet (the GW Parkway traffic notwithstanding) and safe.

Whether you visit some of the places along the Mount Vernon Trail, or merely walk it with your pooch, marveling at what you see, the trail features many trees and grassy areas, perfect for a water break or picnic lunch. It also has benches and is lighted at night. 

Pawrfect for a long hike, with perhaps an Uber to take you back to the Roosevelt Island parking lot, or broken up into segments until you and your pup have traveled the entire distance, the Mount Vernon Trail tantalizes with its historic features and destinations while providing a safe, paved place to experience all the benefits of walking with your pup! Check it out today!