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 Reporter |
Summary: Columbia Island came itno being in 1916, when the Potomac River was dredged and the spoils piled up on the Virginia shore. Because the new land formed an island, it automatically became part of Washington, thanks to an ancient las that denies Virginia even part-ownership of the Potomac. In the 1930's the island became a key link in the metro area's growing road network. The George Washington Memorial Parkway and Arlington Memorial Bridge were created, along with many connecting roads. The island was also landscaped, but its chief purpose was to carry motor traffic. In 1968 the National Park Service designated the island as Lady Bird Johnson Park, in honor of the then first lady's efforts to beautify the country. The Lyndon B. Johnson memorial was added in 1974, the year after the former president passed away. The island now has many dogwoods, pines, and flowering bushes, as well as literally a million daffodils and some great views of Washington D.C. Trailhead: Visitor parking along Boundary Channel Drive in the Pentagon's North Parking area. Also accessible via Metro - Take Blue line to Arlington Cemetery, walk 0.2 miles along Memorial drive to circle to begin. (Lat:38.8777 Lon:-77.0532) Trail Guides for Columbia Island: 60 Hikes within 60 miles of Washington D.C. by Paul Elliott (Menasha Ridge Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: National Park Service, George Washington Memorial Parkway (703) 289-2500 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joe Cross, who has posted 56 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Pettsie on 9/23/2006 While the park is beautiful, it is small and most of the hike is outside of the park and along busy highways, sometimes even crossing the highway. Some good views of the Pentagon from the adjacent marina. Otherwise, not worthwhile for hiking, especially with dogs. 
Reviewed by IGOR on 11/5/2004 Perfect for the first time hiker. Excellent for kids and elderly. Wonderful break from the bussy city across. Very romantic in Fall. Easy access. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Virginia Hiking, Virginia Trails, Virginia Hikes, Arlington County Hiking, Arlington County Trails, Arlington County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
