Cabin John Regional Park | Montgomery County

Cabin John Regional Park is a 90-acre public park located in Montgomery County, Maryland, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The park features mature deciduous forest, primarily oak and maple species. A paved multi-use trail runs through the park, with sections adjacent to Cabin John Creek. The creek bed consists of gravel and exposed rock. Open grassy areas are present near the park's main entrances.

Location & Access Logistics

The park is situated at 7400 MacArthur Boulevard, Glen Echo, MD 20812. It is approximately 10 miles west of Washington D.C. Access is directly from MacArthur Boulevard. Parking is available in designated lots near the main pavilion and the ice rink. The Montgomery County Ride On Bus Route 30 serves MacArthur Boulevard, with stops within walking distance of park entrances.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Cabin John Regional Park was established in the early 20th century. The park's ecological origin is a temperate deciduous forest ecosystem, shaped by the Potomac River watershed. Cabin John Creek is a tributary of the Potomac River.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include walking and cycling on the paved trail. The park contains a large playground area. A seasonal outdoor ice rink operates from November to March. Picnic tables and grills are available in designated areas. The park also includes a miniature train ride, operational seasonally.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located near the main pavilion and the ice rink. Shaded areas are provided by the forest canopy and several picnic shelters. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout the park. No on-site food vendors are present, but facilities are located within a 1km radius along MacArthur Boulevard.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the forest. The months of April through October offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The park is accessible year-round.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the park's creek was once used by smugglers to transport goods from the Potomac River. The park is also known for its mature tree specimens, some estimated to be over 150 years old.

Nearby Landmarks

• Glen Echo Park (0.3km West)
• C&O Canal National Historical Park (1.5km North)
• Old Angler's Inn (2.0km Northwest)
• National Park Seminary (3.5km East)
• Rock Creek Park (4.8km Southeast)