October 10th (also, Indigenous Peoples’ Day) was National Walk to a Park Day, in honor of getting outside and enjoying our local green spaces, we’ll be prescribing you some much needed ParkRx and all the amazing benefits that come with being outside in nature.
Though ParkRx.org began as the home for the National ParkRx Initiative to discuss the emerging trend of prescribing nature to improve mental and physical health – Throughout the years, it has grown into the leading information hub for Park Prescriptions, creating a space for knowledge sharing in the practitioner community. As the health and nature movement grows, the definition of Park Prescriptions continues to evolve. ParkRx focuses on programs that include a health or social service provider, encourage their patients to spend time in nature, and maintain the goal of improving their overall health and well-being. Learn more about ParkRx and the health benefits that being in nature provides here.
While Rock Creek Park is the only official local collaborator with the ParkRx movement, there are still many other amazing parks in the District to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.
Fort Dupont isn’t just a cool venue for musicians, it also offers two hiking trails protected by the park’s canopy of Maples, Oaks, Virginia Pines, Sassafras, and Persimmons. As leaves continue to change colors, this is a great location for a fall stroll through the trees. Fort Dupont Park is also one of the eight Civil War Defenses of Washington, making it a great historical learning experience for anyone who visits.
Oxon Run is another one of DC’s largest parks, stretching across 128 acres of the District, southeast of the river. With over 200 trees, the park is home to the largest number of Legacy Cherry Blossom Trees outside the Tidal Basin as well as being home to the very rare habitat of the Magnolia Bog. Explore the Mother’s Peace Garden planted with native pollinator plants near the amphitheater and playground, or take a stroll down the Oxon Cove Park Hiker-Biker trail for a generally easy 4.0-mile loop. This is a popular trail for road biking, trail running, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
After being newly renovated in September 2021, Franklin Park offers a wide selection of seating and activities as well as the largest green space in downtown DC. The park is home to over 15 different tree species, including Willow Oaks and American Sycamores. See how many are familiar to you and what makes them unique! Located on 13th and I St NW, just northeast of the White House, the 4.79-acre urban park is a great place for those wanting to step away into nature while still enjoying the district’s bustling downtown.
Another great spot to see some gorgeous autumn colors, Barnard Hill Park offers an area that’s beautifully shaded by a variety of oaks, including Pin Oaks, Scarlet Oaks, and Bur Oaks. Located on the northeast border of DC and Maryland, this park provides a more ‘low-key’ experience to enjoy beautiful fall views without fighting a crowd.
