Archives for October 2021

Moving to a new city can be a rough transition for many, especially those experiencing ‘city life’ for the first time. However, one thing that I have found to ease the transition and helps alleviate stress/anxiety is to stay active! This of which may seem intimidating to do, seeing as you may be unfamiliar with the area. However, here are a few safe and fun activities you could do to stay active in D.C.

1.)   Utilize the gym available at the Buchanan

I am a strong believer that a little physical activity every day can really impact your mental and physical health in a positive way. Therefore, I highly encourage everyone to take advantage of the gym available just a few floors away from your room.

2.)   Go sightseeing 

After getting to D.C., it is extremely tempting to immediately go out and visit national monuments and museums located around the city. Therefore, it is highly encouraged to purchase your first SmarTrip card and start counting your steps. Walking around to the various monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument can be so interesting and fun that you don’t realize you are technically exercising as much as you truly are. For example, when visiting these exact places, my roommates and I walked 26,000 steps without realizing it.

3.)   Go on a hike

Another activity that is fun to do in your spare time and acts as a great cardio workout is hiking! There are many trails in and around the city, and some that can be reached if you have car access. For example, the Appalachian Trail is about an hour away from our apartment and is a great source of fresh air and scenic views!

4.)   Go on a run 

Lastly, go on a run! I know running doesn’t seem to be the most fun type of physical activity to participate in, but the views you are capable of experiencing make it worth it. For example, the Mt. Vernon trail is located down the street from the Buchanan, and it leads you along the Potomac and to the Jefferson Memorial. It is a decent run, however, there is nothing like seeing the Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument lit up amongst such a peaceful silence. (early morning runs)

 

Victoria Izaguirre
Office of Congressman Randy Weber
Washington, D.C. | Fall 2021

 

 

Are you ever tired of concrete surroundings? Do you enjoy getting in touch with nature but feel disconnected? The great outdoors of the Shenandoah Valley, Appalachian Mountains, and Potomac riverside are calling, and you must go!

Nature can feel like a far-away concept when you’re constantly surrounded by the sounds of a metro station and walking in the shadows of a D.C. Highrise. In reality, the D.C. area is surrounded on all sides by some of the most breathtaking state and national parks that provide all levels of hiking, biking, and rock-climbing opportunities.

If you’re an avid hiker looking for The View, McAfee Knob is a challenging, 8-mile round-trip hike up to the top of Catawba Mountain in Virginia. A highlight of the Appalachian Trail, McAfee Knob provides a stunning 270-degree panoramic view of the valley below. USA Today called it one of the most spectacular hikes in the U.S.

If you’re more in the mood for a nice, moderate hike, the Annapolis Rock Trail is the one for you. A 2.5 mile in and out, the trail leads to exciting boulder edges perfect for a snack at the top. This is also a prime spot to see plumes of fall foliage! The Billy Goat Trail and Great Falls Overlook Trail are also great options in the moderate category and bring you up close and personal with the Potomac River.

For easiest accessibility, check out the Mount Vernon Hiking and Biking trail! Running all the way from Theodore Roosevelt Island to Mount Vernon, the 18-mile hike or bike ride is a paved trail full of beautiful views and places to rest and takes you right up to the front door of George Washington’s Estate. Be sure to plan a whole day for this adventure and drink plenty of water. In addition, many people use smaller sections of the trail to go for a walk, take a family bike ride, or visit Theodore Roosevelt Island.

While it’s important to experience the city in all of its glory, a little fresh air and a nice hike is a great way to refresh and relax. There are so many ways to experience nature, even when you live in D.C.! Take the time to get outside and experience all that nature has to offer.

Abby Huie
Office of Congressman Filemon Vela
Washington, D.C. | Fall 2021