Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
8
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
This is a short hike but well worth the time to see the amazing water flowers and plants that grow in this
marsh. The trail winds around several ponds and out to the marsh that joins the Anacostia River.
Distance: 2.1 miles in two out-and-back trail sections
Approximate hiking time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Trail surface: Smooth natural paths
Best seasons: Year-round
Other trail users: None
Canine compatibility: Leashed dogs permitted
Fees and permits: None
Schedule: Daily from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed Jan 1, Thanksgiving Day, and Dec 25
Maps: A National Park Service map at www.nps.gov/keaq/planyourvisit/maps.htm.
Maps are also available at the visitor center.
Trail contact: 1900 Anacostia Dr. SE, Washington, D.C. 20020; (202) 426-6905;
www.nps.gov/keaq
Finding the trailhead:
From I-495, take the exit for US 50 west (exit 19B). Merge
onto MD 295 south and take the exit for Eastern Avenue/Aquatic Gardens. Stay straight
onto Kenilworth Avenue. Turn right on Quarles Street, and then left on Anacostia Aven-
ue. Park in the lot by the road and walk into the park to the visitor center. GPS: N38
54.76 / W76 56.516
The Hike
What began as a pond with a few water lilies in William Shaw's backyard in the 1880s has blossomed
into Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. Set along the Anacostia River, in an area called the Kenilworth
Marsh, the gardens contain an array of ponds with thousands of blooming water flowers, including sev-
