Trail Discovery for Kids: Swamp and Woods Trail

Hike Information

1.3 mile circuit hike.
The trail head is across the bridge, next to the kiosk.
The trail is flat and wide. Half of it is natural surface and the other a raised boardwalk.
This trail is jogging stroller friendly.
Follow the trail clockwise to visit all the natural play areas described below.
Link to the trail map.

Age Appropriateness

This hike is great for toddlers and preschoolers. However, older siblings will enjoy it too because of a challenging rock outcropping on the northeast side of the island.

What is fun for kids?

Walking in the middle of the Potomac River.
The trail is in two ecosystems, a deciduous forest and wetlands.
Seeing and hearing the big jets overhead, in addition to many plants and animals: frogs, skinks, fish, turtles, ducks, geese, and deer.
A toddler/preschool-size rock on the trail – instead of taking your first right to stay on the Swamp trail, follow it straight and the rock will be on your right.
Sandy beach with rocks, shells, and a fallen tree – after climbing on the toddler-size rock, take your first left towards the water. You will be facing the Key Bridge. Caution – retrace your steps back to the Swamp trail. Do not continue on the social/user path. It is too narrow with lots of poison ivy and fallen trees.
Large rock outcropping next to and in the river – at the four way intersection on the Swamp trail, go left to the rocks. Retrace your steps back and take a left back onto the Swamp trail. You will soon approach the boardwalk.
The monument is a great place for a picnic and a game of chase and hide and seek among the bushes.

Caution

The trail is not blazed or marked with signs.
MUDDY!

Hiking Along engages children in exploration of the natural world through hiking on scenic trails around the metro DC region. Groups of children, preschool to high school, participate in hands-on science activities to learn about the natural surroundings while hiking on trails. Visit www.hikingalong.com for more information.