Theodore Roosevelt Island is a small nature retreat that that can be accessed on foot from both Washington, D.C., and Rosslyn, Virginia. The island sits on the Potomac River with two connecting bridges to support foot tracking from both east and west.
Upon arrival, there is map posted for visitors interested in hiking Theodore Roosevelt Island while exploring what the 88.5-acres has to offer.
The island boasts plenty of shade with its lush amount of trees and could easily be the perfect place for a workout or a leisurely hike. Please note that the proper footwear is essential for this location! I found myself only able to travel but so far into certain areas due to its swampy terrain. Also keep in mind that although there is Theodore Island Roosevelt parking, you will not be able to drive a car over the bridge to the island itself. The location is accessible via walking and biking which makes for a great workout.
Perhaps, the most popular part of the island is its Theodore Roosevelt Memorial which pays homage to the 26th President, his passion for nature conservation, and philosophical writings.
It was a a beautiful and clear day to take many Theodore Roosevelt Island pictures.
The memorial has benches for those looking to rest and visitors can take peaceful strolls while enjoying the sights without the worry of bikes or vehicles which are not permitted.
Overall, I enjoyed my accessible getaway to Theodore Roosevelt Island and will leave you with some of his philosophical musings.
Manhood
“ A man’s usefulness depends upon his living up to his ideals in so far as he can. It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed. All daring and courage, all iron endurance of misfortune make for a finer and nobler type of manhood. Only those are fit to live who do not fear to die and none are fit to die who have shrunk from the joy of life and the duty of life.”
Nature
“ There is a delight in the hardy life of the open. There are no words that can tell the hidden spirit of the wilderness that can reveal its mystery, its melancholy and its charm. The nation behaves well if it treats the natural resources as assets which it must turn over to the next generation increased and not impaired in value. Conservation means development as much as it does protection.”
Youth
” I want to see you game boys. I want to see you brave and manly, and I also want to see you gentle and tender. Be practical as well as generous in your ideals. Keep you eyes on the stars and keep your feet on the ground. Courage, hard work, self mastery and intelligent effort are all essential to successful life. Character, in the long run, is the decisive factor in the life of an individual and of nations alike.”
The State
“ Our is a government of liberty by, through, and under the law. A great democracy must be progressive or it will soon cease to be great or a democracy. Aggressive fighting for the right is the noblest sport the world affords. In popular government results worthwhile can only be achieved by men who combine worthy ideals with practical good sense. If I must choose between righteousness and peace, I choose righteousness.”
