A Walk and a Hike in Rock Creek Park

Either way, a nice respite right in the middle of the city

What’s the difference between a walk and a hike? I shared this question awhile back on Facebook and with friends belonging to two different hiking groups. Based on this unscientific study, I heard that:

A hike:

• takes place in nature;

• involves rough terrain, specifically roots;

• includes changes in elevation; and

• requires advance planning and supplies for weather, sustenance, and emergencies such as a water bottle, snacks, map, and first aid kit.

A walk:

• can be in nature if on a well developed path or along a city street;

• is typically shorter and less challenging; and

• can be done in any kind of footwear.

By these definitions, I did both last week in Rock Creek Park, one day solo sticking to the pavement along the bike path and Beach Drive, and one day with a group along the trails, beginning and ending at the Nature Center.

It’s hard to miss Rock Creek Park because it’s smack dab in the middle of DC — nearly 1,800 acres of woods, trails, creek bed, and all manner of other recreational amenities. You can go for a bike ride or a long walk/hike (choose your own adventure), ride a horse, play tennis and golf, picnic with friends and family, take in a planetarium show, or engage with a park ranger to learn about nature, the planets, and local history.

At its southern tip, Rock Creek Park reaches Georgetown, petering out behind the Kennedy Center where the bike/walking path will take you onward to the National Mall. As it goes north, it widens and links up with Rock Creek Regional Park, managed by Montgomery County, Maryland. The deep ravine created by the creek famously separates the city into “west of the park” (think white and wealthy) and “east of the park,” once overwhelming black and brown, and more modest, although less so these days due to gentrification.

While the cherry trees peaked last weekend and the city is colorful with other blooming trees, daffodils, and forsythia, down in the park, it still feels like winter with only the faintest hint of green to come. Perhaps that’s due to lack of concrete and buildings to warm the soil, or maybe because it’s home to different plants.

The parkway is also a major traffic artery, creating an easy through line from downtown to Upper Northwest with few traffic lights and stop signs. Some roads, previously closed only on weekends, are now off limits to cars at all times with the exception of small stretches to provide access to parking at picnic areas. Midweek or on the weekend, you’ll see folks on foot and on bikes — some taking it slow and others intent on a vigorous workout. Others are pushing strollers or walking dogs, or sometimes both.

In short, there’s always something to do in the park so lace up some comfy shoes (hiking boots optional) and get yourself there. The park is open 365 days a year, theoretically 24/7 although some spots are marked “area closed after dark.”

P.S. If you have additional thoughts on the difference between a hike and walk, leave a comment below.