Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
4
Tidal Basin and Hains Point
This pristine walk starts and ends along the Tidal Basin, with visits to the FDR and Jefferson Memori-
als. It follows the Potomac River out to the Hains Point peninsula, with views of the Potomac River on
one side and the Washington Channel on the other.
Distance: 5.4-mile lollipop
Approximate hiking time: 4 hours, including stops at the memorials
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail surface: Paved walkways
Best seasons: Year-round
Other trail users: Runners, cyclists
Canine compatibility: Leashed dogs permitted
Fees and permits: None
Schedule: Open all day, every day
Maps: National Park Service maps at www.nps.gov/nama. Maps can also be picked up
at kiosks by the FDR Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial. Also see Rand McNally
Washington DC Metro Street Guide: page 103; B7, C7, D8, E8.
Finding the trailhead:
By car: From I-395 north, cross the bridge into the district and
take the exit for Park Police. Turn right onto Buckeye Drive SW and then left onto Ohio
Drive SW, crossing into West Potomac Park. Park anywhere along the road. Follows
signs for the FDR Memorial Visitors Center to the trailhead. Via Metro: The nearest sta-
tion is the Smithsonian; both the Blue and Orange lines travel here. It's about a
20-minute walk from there to the start of the hike. Exit the Metro on Independence Av-
enue and walk west. Cross 15th Street and continue straight. Cross the bridge with the
tidal basin on your left and then turn left on West Basin Drive SW to the FDR Memorial
Visitors Center. GPS: N38 51.542' / W77 01.404'
The Hike
