Theodore Roosevelt Island


In the 1930s, landscape architects transformed Mason’s Island from neglected, overgrown farmland into Theodore Roosevelt Island, a memorial to America’s 26th president. They conceived a “real forest” designed to mimic the natural forest that once covered the island. Today miles of trails through wooded uplands and swampy bottomlands honor the legacy of a great outdoorsman and conservationist.

By Car: accessible from the northbound lanes of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, after Roosevelt Bridge, exit sign, turn right into the parking lot. Please note: park in a designated parking space, US Park Police regularly tickets drivers who park on the grass. By Metro: exit Rosslyn Metro station, walk toward Key Bridge, take short connecting trail downhill from the downstream side of the bridge, across the parkway, and into the parking lot for the island. By Bike: Mount Vernon Trail north end

  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Walking
  • Hiking
  • Paddling
  • Canoeing
  • Kayaking
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Birdwatching

  • Arts
  • Sculpture
  • Monuments and Memorials
  • Presidents
  • Social Movements
  • Animals
  • Forests and Woodlands
  • Trails
  • Wetlands

Staute of Theodore Roosevelt

A bronze statue of Theodore Roosevelt standing and pointing.

Theodore Roosevelt memorial plaza on Theodore Roosevelt Island.

Theodore Roosevelt Island Trail

woodland trail in the shadow of tall trees

Hike the trails around the island

Ranger answers Question

Three people with Park Ranger at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial.

National Park Service Ranger discussing Theodore Roosevelt with visitors at his memorial.

Across Theodore Roosevelt Island Memorial Plaza

long stone plaza with statue of Theodore Roosevelt at end surround by the shadows of tall trees

Enjoy a hidden gem, an island oasis, in the busy Washington, D.C region.

Trail on Theodore Roosevelt Island

three people walking on wooden boardwalk under trees

Hike the trails throughout Theodore Roosevelt Island for a grand adventure.