Capital Nature

(VA) (Friends of Dyke Marsh) Join FODM for a bird walk every Sunday at 8 a.m. The Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve is a freshwater, tidal marsh on the Virginia side of the Potomac River in Fairfax County. It is a unit of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, U.S. National Park Service.

(DC) (Rock Creek Park) Join Rock Creek Conservancy, the National Park Service and Rock Creek Weed Warrior Leader Kathy Sykes for this invasive plant removal restoration event in Rock Creek Park. Invasive plants are a major threat to our fragile forests, and stopping their spread helps allow native plants to thrive in the understory. Event location, directions, and information will be ...

(VA) (NOVA Parks) Santa’s animal friends are lost in our park and need rescuing! Go on a scavenger hunt to locate the critters so they can help Santa deliver candy and treats for the holidays! Appropriate for families and children of all ages.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. Event takes place on December 14th and 15th, 21st through ...

(VA) (NOVA Parks) Test your Pokémon knowledge in PokéJeopardy and learn how to use a real life Pokédex! Explore the park with our Roving Naturalist, identify a variety of species, complete challenges, and help collect citizen science data for iNaturalist. Ages 5+

(DC) (National Park Service) During this ½ mile excursion, young explorers learn the hiking essentials, such as trail safety, what to wear or bring to a hike, and how to Rrecreate Rresponsibly all while looking at nature and respecting nature found in our woodlands.  This ranger-led hike is intended to create treasured trail experiences for families interested in planning more ...

(VA) (Friends of Huntley Meadows) The Monday Morning Bird Walk is sponsored by the Friends of Huntley Meadows Park and takes place every Monday at 8 a.m. Following the walk, members of the group gather at the nearby Denny’s for breakfast and to compile the morning’s bird list. All are welcome.  

(DC) (Smithsonian Natural History Museum) What do brighter nights mean for people and wildlife? Through over 100 photographs, nearly 250 objects, interactive experiences, tactile models, and a theater program, discover why dark nights matter, rekindle your connection with the night sky, and consider how much light at night is enough—for whom, for what purpose, and who gets to decide? Open ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Come out to the Discovery Center and spend some time outdoors! We will explore the trails, play games in the fields and forests, and make the most of what Black Hill has to offer.

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Smokey Bear! Enjoy various activities, a campfire with s’mores, and of course, a noon countdown to ring in the New Year!

(DC) (Friends of the National Arboretum) Join our nature and forest therapy guide in this two-hour program that encourages you to slow down and take in the National Arboretum through all your senses. Forest bathing, or shinrin yoku, is the simple practice of taking in the woods through the senses for health benefits. The benefits are immense: boosted immunity, lowered ...

(DC) (Smithsonian Asian Art Museum) Meditation helps us build a relationship to a place of inner quietude. Whether you’re a beginner or a skilled practitioner, join us for free online meditation sessions each week led by DC-based meditation teachers on Tuesdays and Fridays. Friday sessions include inspiration from art in the museum collections, much of which is inspired by nature, ...

(VA) (Virginia State Parks) While Americans traditionally ring in the New Year at midnight on New Year's Eve, other cultures welcome it with the first sunrise of New Year's Day. Join rangers for this unique experience, witnessing the sky transition from dark to light as a new day and a new year dawns. While on top of the Piedmont Overlook, we will ...

(VA) (Fairfax County Parks) Take a hike with a naturalist in the early morning to view the stunning first sunrise of the year as it crests over the lake. Rejuvenate as you walk along the park trails and signal in the new year. Ages 4 to Adult.

(VA) (Virginia State Parks) State Parks throughout Virginia will be hosting guided and self-guided First Day Hikes. Sky Meadows Park will host four First Hike and related events on January 1st, and Mason Neck State Park will host three hike events. See guided and self-guided hikes throughout the Virginia park system here.

(VA) (Virginia State Parks) Immerse yourself in the serene wooded landscape just after sunrise on New Year's Day, where the soft light filters through the trees and the sounds of nature come alive. This invigorating hike spans approximately 3.8 miles along a well-maintained packed dirt trail, which features a variety of terrain, including stairs and exposed tree roots that add ...

(MD) (Maryland Park Service) State Parks throughout Maryland will be hosting guided and self-guided First Day Hikes. At Senecea Creek State Park enjoy a a self-guided, 3.7-mile loop hike along the Lakeshore Trail, featuring scenic winter views and chances to spot local wildlife, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Visit our Welcome Table to pick up a map, explore with field ...

(DC) (DC Department of Parks and Recreation) Join Mayor Muriel Bowser, DPR, and FITDC  for the annual Fresh Start 5K Walk for that gets participants started on better health and fitness for the New Year! Registration and 5K Walk start at 1800 Anacostia Drive in Anacostia Park.

(VA) (Virginia State Parks) Tundra Swans are known for their striking white plumage and long, graceful necks, making them a favorite among birdwatchers. Each year, these incredible birds undertake a remarkable migration from their breeding grounds in the Arctic tundra to warmer winter habitats. Meet rangers stationed at the observation decks at either the Woodmarsh Trail or Great Marsh Trail ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Join hundreds who step out into the new year with a first day hike of 2025. We will walk about 2-3 miles the early afternoon on natural surface trails. Pending trail conditions, hiking locations will either be to hike around Lake Frank or a local trail near Meadowside and an email will be set with details to ...

(MD) (Little Falls Watershed Alliance) Join us for a fun and refreshing hike on the first day of the year! Find the mouth of the Little Falls creek on the Potomac!

(DC) (DC Metropolitan Hikers) Start the new year with you best hiking foot forward! Rock Creek Park is a lovely hiking destination in the heart of DC. Wooded and serene, it belies its location in the heart of DC. We will be doing a ten mile or so loop that hits all of the high points. We hike fairly quickly, ...

(VA) (Friends of Wolf Trap Park) Start 2025 off right. Join us for a brisk health/nature walk at beautiful Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts! Embrace the winter weather with a guided one-hour trail walk while enjoying the scenery at Wolf Trap National Park. "First Day Hikes" is a tradition started by state park systems inviting everyone to ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. On New Year’s Day, hundreds of free, guided hikes are organized in all 50 states. Join us at Black Hill Regional Park for a hike starting at the Black Hill Discovery Center. This session is for families ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. On New Year’s Day, hundreds of free, guided hikes are organized in all 50 states. Join us at Black Hill Regional Park for a hike starting at the Black Hill Discovery Center. This session is for adults. ...

(VA) (Virginia State Parks) Kick off the New Year with a refreshing, family-friendly hike that everyone can enjoy! Join park rangers on an adventure through scenic trails, where we’ll look for signs of local wildlife as we explore the Woodpecker Viewing Area, meander along streams, and cross through open meadows. Along the way, test your skills with fun nature, history, ...

(DC) (National Park Service) Join the National Park Service at Rock Creek Nature Center for the New Year! Make a new year’s wish for yourself or the park while learning more about stars and how humans have connected with them in such unique ways.

(VA) (Arlington Parks) Some of the best times to identify birds is when the trees have no leaves and there aren't any obstacles in the way of your view! In this hike we will learn about our resident birds that stay with us year-round. Dress for the weather. We will provide binoculars, but you can bring your own. Families.

(DC) (Smithsonian Natural History Museum) What do brighter nights mean for people and wildlife? Through over 100 photographs, nearly 250 objects, interactive experiences, tactile models, and a theater program, discover why dark nights matter, rekindle your connection with the night sky, and consider how much light at night is enough—for whom, for what purpose, and who gets to decide? Open ...

(DC) (Dumbarton Oaks Park Conservancy) Join us for stewardship of Dumbarton Oaks Park, DC's hidden green oasis and part of Rock Creek Park. Activities may include pulling invasive, cleanup, and planting. Contact [email protected] for more information and to RSVP.

(DC) (Tregaron Conservancy) Did you know that the Tregaron Conservancy is a birding "hot spot"? Join birding expert Sam Krause on a walk to look and listen for Tregaron’s winter-time birds. Bring binoculars if you would like. Tregaron has mulched trails and varying terrain; close-toed shoes are recommended.

(VA) (NOVA Parks) Join us as we work to keep our park healthy and beautiful!  Assist with invasive plant removal, habitat restoration, and other projects as needed.  Come dressed for and prepared to work outdoors. Gloves and snippers are recommended, but extras may be provided if needed.  Meet at the picnic shelter (located in main parking lot). Ages 9 +

(DC) (National Zoo) Join us for creative, drop-in play at the Zoo as we explore one of the most important parts of nature- TREES! We'll learn how trees can be animal homes, explore different parts of trees through art, and build forest homes for animals. Little Critters Nature Play is designed for ages 0-5 and their caregivers and families. Activities ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Designed to increase flexibility and physical strength and to cultivate mental focus, these classes are a beautiful and relaxing way to begin your weekend. Mats are not included. No walk-ins will be accepted. Location: Japanese Tea House (September – October) or Brookside Gardens Visitor Center (mid-October – February) Instructor: Tanory Ateek

(DC) (Rock Creek Conservancy) Join Rock Creek Conservancy and the National Park Service for this invasive plant removal restoration event in Rock Creek Park. Invasive plants are a major threat to our fragile forests, and stopping their spread helps allow for a thriving native understory. Event location, directions, and information will be sent from the event leader 48 hours before ...

(VA) (Friends of Dyke Marsh) Help protect native plants by pulling and clipping invasive plants. We will train volunteers to identify the five or so target plants. Register to join us in any of these sessions. Invasive plants can threaten and outcompete native plants. We kindly ask that you not bring pets. December 7 and 21 January 4 and 18 ...

(DC) (Rock Creek Conservancy) Join Rock Creek Conservancy, the National Park Service, and Weed Warrior Leader Rena Subotnik for this invasive plant removal restoration event in Rock Creek Park. Invasive plants are a major threat to our fragile forests, and stopping their spread helps allow for a thriving native understory. Event location, directions, and information will be sent from the ...

(VA) (NOVA Parks) On January 4th, Earth will reach perihelion—its closest point to the Sun for the year—a perfect moment to reconnect with the warmth and light that sustain us, even in the depth of winter. Join us for a mindful nature connection experience to rekindle inner radiance, release stress, and embrace the nearness of the Sun through forest bathing, ...

(VA) (Fairfax County Parks) Take a hike through the woods with a naturalist to listen and look for the park’s winter avian residents and migrants. Find out what birds do to survive the winter weather. Ages 4 to Adult.

(DC) (Ward 8 Woods) Give back to the earth, exercise your body, spend time in nature and meet cool people with the Ward 8 Woods Conservancy. Known as a busy commuter route between central Washington to its eastern suburbs, the Suitland Parkway is also a nature preserve, flanked on each side by over 300 acres of forested hillside. Sadly, the ...

(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Are you interested in starting your own native plants, even if you don’t have a greenhouse? Then join us to make your own native seed winter sowing containers. We will provide the materials, and you choose the seeds to try. Stop in any time during the program. Supplies are limited.

(VA) (Fairfax County Parks) Read a story book about animals and their unique adaptations that help them survive the cold winters. Then bundle up and take a hike to look for signs of winter wildlife or play an outdoor game based on the theme of the story. Ages 4 to Adult.

(VA) (Fairfax County Parks) Enjoy a night hike to learn about nocturnal hunters. Listen to taped calls of owls and coyotes and possibly catch a glimpse of them in the forest. End the evening with s'mores round the campfire. Children must be accompanied by an adult registered in the program. Ages 4 to Adult. More Fairfax County Parks events can ...