Civil War Washington Forts: An Interpretive Hike of Civil War Defenses of Washington

This outdoor interpretive hike explores Washington’s Civil War defenses, which were built in 1861 when the city was surrounded by slave-holding states and Confederate sympathizers. Participants will follow a roughly 2-mile route from Fort DeRussy to Fort Stevens, learning about the 68 forts hastily constructed to protect Washington and how these historic defenses remain part of the city today.

The hike travels over both paved and unpaved paths. A yellow school bus will return participants from Fort Stevens to the Rock Creek Park Nature Center at the end of the program.

When: Saturday, October 10, 2026

Showtimes: 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Tickets: Free

Registration: Registration is required.

Venue: Rock Creek Park Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road NW, Washington, D.C. 20015, near the intersection of Military Road and Glover Road

Route: The approximately 2-mile hike goes from Fort DeRussy to Fort Stevens.

Transportation: A yellow school bus will transport participants from Fort Stevens back to the Rock Creek Park Nature Center.

Parking: Free parking is available at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center. Public transit information and directions are available through the event page.

What to Bring: Participants should bring a water bottle, wear sturdy walking or hiking shoes, and dress appropriately for the weather.

Educator Information: Classroom teachers may request a letter certifying one hour of professional development, along with educational resources to help adapt the program into a field trip.