Fort Marcy was one of 68 forts built around the Washington, D.C. during the Civil War. It, along with its counterpart Fort Ethan Allen, protected the Chain Bridge, one of the few bridges into the capital from Virginia.  Fort Marcy is one of a small sampling of forts that survived and is part of the Civil War Defenses of Washington.

Things to Do

Ranger Programs

All Roads Lead to D.C. (1st Sunday of every month; 2 p.m.; 1 hour)

Visit a fort constructed on the western front and learn about the various bridges and construction projects that transformed Washington from a sleepy town to a bustling metropolis. Meet the ranger in the parking lot.

To request a ranger tour of Fort Marcy for a group, please call 703-289-2553.

Self-Guided Tour

It is possible to explore the fort with a brochure to learn about the defenses surrounding Washington, D.C. during the Civil War. The brochure also helps to envision Fort Marcy and understand its role in protecting the nation's capital.

Fort Marcy brochure - a printer-friendly, 8 1/2" x 11" brochure

Hiking

The Potomac Heritage Trail, a ten mile long trail running from Theodore Roosevelt Island to the American Legion Bridge mostly along the banks of the Potomac River, goes through Fort Marcy. Please use caution and bring appropriate clothing and supplies as trails can be steep, muddy, or flooded.

Potomac Heritage Trail Map

Viewing Plants & Wildflowers

Springtime is an ideal time to see wildflowers in bloom in Fort Marcy and along the Potomac Heritage Trail. Plant enthusiasts enjoy the variety of plants preserved in a heavily urbanized area.

History & Culture

The bloodiest war ever fought on American soil, the Civil War, had far-reaching effects and an immediate impact on the capital city of Washington, D.C. During the Civil War, the vulnerability of Washington, D.C. became a grave concern for residents, military leaders, and politicians as the conflict escalated. The state of Maryland - a Union slave state with many southern sympathizers - was located to the north. Surrounded by unfriendly territory, with only one fort in operation at the beginning of the Civil War, the Nation's capital was not prepared for direct military attack.

This led to a massive construction effort to establish a defensive ring of forts around the city. One of the forts defending the city against enemy forces became known as Fort Marcy. 

Plan Your Visit

Hours & Seasons

The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.

Directions

Fort Marcy is located on the George Washington Memorial Parkway (GWMP) approximately four miles north of Rosslyn and a mile south of the exit for Chain Bridge Road (Route 123) in McLean. The park is ONLY accessible from the northbound lanes of the GWMP.

From I-495 (The Beltway) - Take exit 43. Follow GWMP south for about 10 miles and take an exit to turn around to head northbound on the GWMP. Take the GWMP northbound for about 4 miles. Take a right-hand exit at the Fort Marcy sign just past the bridge over Pimmit Run.

From Washington, D.C. and Arlington, VA: Take the GWMP northbound for about 4 miles. Take a right-hand exit at the Fort Marcy sign just past the bridge over Pimmit Run.

Facilities

Parking is available for visiting Fort Marcy and Potomac Heritage Trail. Inside the earthworks of the fort are several picnic tables. There are no restrooms or water fountains.

Rules and Regulations

For parkwide rules, please view the Park Compendium. Rules regarding Fort Marcy include:

• Removing or damaging natural or cultural resources is prohibited
• Pets must be on a least no longer than 6 feet at all times
• Commercial and organized group activities within Fort Marcy require a permit obtained from the National Park Service