

Photo: Meghan Yudes Meyers A Meditative Walk For more 19 more leaf peeping drives, go here. “Deer, black bear, wild turkey, and a host of other woodland animals call Shenandoah home and regularly cross Skyline Drive in their daily travels,” according to the National Park Service. It takes about three hours to travel the whole thing, and it’s accessible at four points.

This 105-mile drive runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is the only public road through the park. With leaf colors peaking right now, it is the perfect time to take the quick 80 minute trip out to Skyline drive. Find more gardens worth exploring here.Ĭonnect with nature through the gentle practice of forest bathing (not sure what that is, find out more here). The peaceful silence is occasionally interrupted by overhead airplanes small children will delight in seeing their low-flying path. You’ll find small ponds and water features, an arch to run under and views of the Potomac River. Finding the garden is half the fun! It’s located on the east and north sides of the Heyden Observatory. Get away from it all right here in the city! Right next to the Yates Field House you’ll find this hidden gem on the Georgetown University grounds considered a best-kept secret by many locals. Photo: Daderot via Wikipedia A Quiet Garden Northbound lanes between Roosevelt Bridge and Key Bridge There are plenty of opportunities to get to the beach and once you do, you’ll barely see a soul. Head to your immediate left and let your little clamor over fallen limbs and scale mini boulders as you scout out the perfect hidden path to head towards the water. You’ll have plenty of company when you cross the pedestrian bridge over to this nature preserve, but once on the other side, the crowds melt away. This 91-acre island serves as a memorial to President Roosevelt, honoring his contributions to conservation of nature.
