If you live anywhere in the DC area, you've probably heard of the ever-popular Rock Creek park. About 5 minutes from my house lies an important piece of this park, Lake Needwood. For years Lake Needwood was nothing more than a convenient shortcut to avoid the rush hour traffic of Averi Road. But last week, my dad and I decided to drive through the park just so that we could take the scenic route home. As I looked around, I was blown away by how green and beautiful everything had become with the warm spring weather. I also realized that I had never taken the time to come and enjoy the park - I had always driven through it without a second thought. I decided right then and there that I would make it a point to take a trip to Lake Needwood to enjoy it for what it was meant for - and I'm not talking about a traffic cutaround.
Normally when I make these types of promises to myself, it takes me weeks, if not months, to finally do what I said I would. But not this time. This time it only took me two days. Thursday was when Dad and I drove through the park. Friday was when I tossed the idea out to my friend David on our morning commute. Saturday afternoon David and I were on our way to the park to take advantage of our local gem.
After we drove around for a few minutes trying to find the ideal parking spot, we finally made up our minds and took to the walking trails. It felt SO GOOD to be outside and walk through the beautiful nature scenes. And it was so nice out! We wandered around, trying different trails, soaking in the nature, and enjoying the beautiful lake views. Our hike eventually led us down to the boathouse where my breath was truly taken away. We didn't rent a boat that day since we were short on cash, but we walked out on the dock and just sat on the water. I must admit, I couldn't believe I was in the middle of Derwood. As we looked ahead of us, all we saw was the lake and trees. I actually had to remind myself that I was still in the DC area and not hundreds of miles away in some random rural lake spot. It was AWESOME, and so relaxing!
Honestly, I'm not sure what blew me away more - how beautiful our little Lake Needwood Park really is, or the fact that I had never taken advantage of it before. I've lived in this neighborhood since I was six years old, and that's probably one of the last times I was actually at that park to play. I've had my driver's license for 6 years and I've driven through that park countless times going to school and work - but this is the first time I took advantage of such local beauty. It was quite the wake-up call!
If you're in the area and you're looking for a quick city getaway, I highly suggest checking out Lake Needwood (or any part of Rock Creek Park for that matter). It's a great little oasis in an otherwise chaotic region. I know I plan on going back again soon. I need to take advantage of those boat rentals!
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