DC Trail Ranger
WABA’s Trail Ranger program is putting a fresh set of eyes on DC area trails to support and encourage a growing community of trail users. The program is made possible through a grant from the District Department of Transportation’s Urban Forestry Administration.
What is a Trail Ranger?
Trail Rangers are a consistent and helpful presence on DC’s mixed use, paved trails, charged with assisting trail users, improving trail conditions, and working with city agencies to keep the trails clean, bright, and clear of obstacles. They pull trailers stocked with tools and are eager to help patch a flat, provide a quick fix, dish out maps and directions, or clear up glass and debris before it causes trouble. Their presence means a quick response to downed limbs, less ducking around branches, and more reasons to enjoy the area’s trail network.
Get Involved
The team is out on trail daily May to September, but we cannot do it alone. Be a part of making DC’s trails better for all.
Volunteer
Join the team for a day and expand our capacity while learning more about the trails! Trail Ranger volunteer orientation required. Learn more and signup below:
see shifts
Ongoing Opportunties
2nd Friday Coffee Hour: [On hold due to COVID-19] On the second Friday of every month, leave for work a bit early and join us for a cup of coffee and a chat with MBT regulars at the pocket park at 4th and S St NE 7:30 am – 9:30 am.
Pitch in Cleaning Up:
Throughout the spring and summer, neighbors and trail users are invited to lend a hand in keeping our urban bikeways looking good. We’ll provide the tools, snacks and some new friends.
see cleanups
- Group cleanups: have a trail section that your group would like to cleanup? Let us know at trailranger@test.waba.org.
Where to Find Us
Trail Rangers cover nearly 25 miles of trail owned and maintained by DC. From May to September, they are out daily during the morning and evening rush and weekends, giving trail users peace of mind and help when they need it most.
Anacostia River Trail: Running nearly 13 miles, the ART loops from South Capitol St. to Benning Road along both banks of the Anacostia River, and along the east bank from Benning Road to the DC Border where the trail network keeps going in Prince George’s County. The trail offers terrific views of city and river, and easy connections between the parks, stadiums, restaurants and neighborhoods along and across the river. Explore the trail with our trail brochure and recorded webinar. More construction information at the project website.
Marvin Gaye Trail: Following the Watts Branch creek, the 1.6 mile trail runs from near the Minnesota Ave. Metro Station to the city’s eastern boundary line. As a link between numerous parks and neighborhood institutions, the Marvin Gaye Trail is both an important community resource and a commuter connection. Explore more with our trail brochure.
Metropolitan Branch Trail: With nearly 4 of the planned 8 miles of trail built, the Met Branch Trail stretches from Union Station to Fort Totten Park through NE DC. It boasts easy access from NoMa, Eckington, Edgewood, and Brookland. When completed, the MBT will continue north into Silver Spring. Explore more with our trail brochure. More information on continued construction at the project website
Northbound Cue Sheet Southbound Cue Sheet
Oxon Run Trail: Recently repaved in 2018, this 3.5 mile long trail follows Oxon Run on both stream banks and with many connecting bridges. A few highlights of the trail include the James E Bunn Amphitheater, a baseball field, and many cherry trees.
Learn trail basics and more at waba.org/tips.
Follow the Trail Rangers
Follow WABA on Twitter and Facebook for up-to-the-minute updates on Trail Ranger activities. Read more about the team’s work on the WABA Blog or follow the team on Twitter.
Contact
Get in contact with the Program Manager Ursula Sandstrom at trailranger@test.waba.org.
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