Washington D.C. and its surrounding suburbs are some of the most densely populated parts of the United States, but fortunately, as this is the nation’s capital, quite a few beautiful green spaces have been woven into the fabric of the city. Cabin John Regional Park is one of the closest to downtown Bethesda and is a great place to bring to the kids. It has an ample playground area along with a small train that takes children on rides around the park. There’s also a dog park attached to it. The Audubon Naturalist Society Woodend Sanctuary in the nearby town of Chevy Chase has an excellent nature walk on its premises. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or just someone curious about animals, you’re sure to find some interesting wildlife on the trail. The sanctuary trails also connect up with those at the Jones Mill Road Park that runs along Rock Creek. Also close by is the Great Falls Park, a rather small 800-acre recreation area where the Potomac River gracefully cascades over a series of rock ledges. There are several hiking trails that run along both the Maryland and Virginia sides of the river and some great picnicking spots on its southern end. Running parallel to the river is the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, which allows river traffic to bypass the rapids. The towpath constructed alongside it is popular with both runners and cyclists and extends 184 miles to Cumberland, Maryland.