Rangers lead a variety of interpretative programs that range from natural history, historical (colonial, milling and civil war), recreational and astronomy.
Educational Programs:
For educators our rangers offer a variety of educational programs. Call the Nature Center at 202-895-6070 for more information and to make reservations.
Bicycling:
Rock Creek has a variety of paved bicycle paths. One of which runs from the Lincoln Memorial through the park and into Maryland. Memorial Bridge connects it to the Mount Vernon Trail in Virginia. Other bicycle trails near the Rock Creek Trail are the C&O Canal NHP towpath in Georgetown and the Capital Crescent trail in Georgetown and Bethesda, MD. Beach Drive between Military and Broad Branch roads is closed to cars from 7 a.m. Saturday to 7 p.m. Sunday and on holidays for bicycling, hiking, jogging and rollerblading. Please stick to designated paved bicycle paths. Bicycles are not permitted on unpaved horse or foot trails.
Picnicking:
Rock Creek Park has 30 picnic areas throughout the park; some have rain shelters. Many can be reserved for groups up to 100. Reservations must be made in person at the DC Department of Parks and Recreation at 3149, 16th St., NW. Call 202-673-7646 for more information. The park map shows the picnic areas. The numbered blue circles are reservation sites and the numbered black circles are first come, first served areas.
Hiking trails:
An extensive system of trails and paths cover Rock Creek Park and outlying areas such as Glover Archbold Park. These trails are maintained by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) consist of a blue-blazed trail that follows the east side of the creek, a green-blazed trail that follows the western ridge of the park and tan-blazed connector trails.
Bridle Trails:
For the horse rider, 13 miles of wide, dirt and gravel bridle trails crisscross the northern section of the park. Near picnic area 25, off of Glover Road is an Equitation field. Horseback riding lessons and guided trail rides are available at the Rock Creek Park Horse Center.
Roller Blading:
Sections of Beach Drive north of Broad Branch Road are closed on weekends and holidays and are ideal for roller blading.
