5 Active trails in D.C.



Wow, it's already Wednesday. 
I hope everyone's Hump Day has been splendid... 
Stay strong, it's almost Friday!

Mid-Week Tip: There are multiple ways to keep your "A" game alive and power through to the weekend. Here's just a few:
  • Drink water: Dehydration leaves you feeling drained. By incorporating multiple cups of water into your day, you'll be refreshed and sure to shake off any fatigue 
  • Let the sun light in: Take a breather and head outside for a sun-filled walk. A few minutes of sunshine enhances mood, memory and the ability to absorb information.
  • Pack a mid-day, healthy munchie: Everyone needs a little pick-me-up during the day. Grab a handful of almonds, veggies and hummus or non-fat yogurt with fruit to keep your energy UP and tummy satisfied.




Making wonderful memories!
During this past week/weekend, I've spent a ton of time exploring D.C. with my own personal tour guide -- she certainly knows all of the hot spots in town! Since we're both huge fans of keeping active and being outdoors, you can bet we've spent some mean time on the trails already. 

If you're like me, the word "trails" and "D.C." may sound a little, well, opposite. BUT, it's 100 percent true. There are so many great walking/running/biking/hiking trails hidden throughout the city. Each trail has one heck of a view too! If you get the change to spend some time in the city and love to run wherever you are (like me), give some of these active spots a try:

  • Capital Crescent Trail: The Capital Crescent Trail totals to be just about 11 miles long. It starts in Georgetown, Washington, D.C. and travels all the way to Silver Springs, MD. The beginning of the trail runs next to the Potomac River, allowing you to fully distract your mind from running and watch beautiful boats cruise by. 
  • Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trail: This trail runs by the Potomac River, which was used for transporting coal, lumber and other agriculture products down the waterway (to the market) in old America. The trail totals to 184.5 miles long -- simply perfect for marathon training.
  • Great Falls Park: Great Falls Park is home to multiple hiking trails filled with rocks, water and a many trees (click the link to read about all of them). Each park varies in milage, but the one recommended by my personal tour guide as, Billy Goat Trail, is a 7.8 mile circuit. If she says the trail is "so awesome," then it totally is.
  • Mount Vernon Trail: Totaling to 18 miles, the Mount Vernon Trail stretches from George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate to Theodore Roosevelt Island. It includes views of the D.C. skyline, Potomac River and the Arlington National Cemetery. I'm hoping to hike the entire trail before my time in D.C. is up.
  • The National Mall Trail: If you follow this trail, you're certain to have a great run. From start to finish, the trail is 6.1 miles of beautiful monuments and sights. It's a definite "must." Tip: Pick a time outside of the peak tourist hours; if not, you'll be swerving in and out of crowds for 6.1 miles. 



For more details about the trails mentioned (maps, directions, etc.), click on the name of the trail above. Remember, feel free to tailor the run/walk/bike to fit you... cut it short or double it, the choice is yours! 

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