Out of an abundance of caution, Fort Totten Park will remain closed east of Fort Totten Drive, south of Gallatin Street/Metropolitan Branch Trail and north of Brookland Ave NE/Farragut St. due to the investigation involving two WWI-era munitions found.
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Civil War Defenses of Washington
Expert Verdict & Insider Tips
Located in DC and Maryland and Virginia, Civil War Defenses of Washington preserves a remarkably unique landscape. Unlike typical tourist hubs, this park unit is cherished by locals and outdoor enthusiasts for its quiet trails, scenic views, and raw natural beauty.
About Civil War Defenses of Washington
Civil War Defenses of Washington is a located in Washington D.C. and Maryland and Virginia. Check the weather forecast for each individual site for accurate information.
Directions vary based on your preference of site.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Civil War Defenses of Washington is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Civil War Defenses of Washington offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Arts and Culture, Theater, Biking, Mountain Biking, and 12 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Civil War Defenses of Washington
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Civil War Defenses of Washington
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Civil War Defenses of Washington before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Monitor Active Alerts: There are currently 1 active alerts for Civil War Defenses of Washington. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Civil War Defenses of Washington. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
On forested hills surrounding the nation's capital are the remnants of a complex system of Civil War fortifications. These strategic buttresses transformed the young capital into one of the world's most fortified cities. By 1865, 68 forts and 93 batteries armed with over 800 cannons encircled Washington, DC. Today, you can visit 18 of the original sites now managed by the National Park Service.
Seasonal Visitor Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Civil War Defenses of Washington
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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