Capitol Stones
The Capitol Stones were abandoned in Rock Creek Park after renovations to the U.S. Capitol
In the 1950s, renovations were made on the U.S. Capitol building to create more office space and a subway terminal. The architect appointed by President Eisenhower was a former congressman with no architecture experience. As the east facade was dismantled, the columns were moved to the Capitol Power Plant. They were then moved to the National Arboretum in the 1980s, where they remain. The stones, however, were taken to Rock Creek Park. Although most of the stones look unremarkable with no clues to their past, some ornate carvings hint at their former life.
It is truly surreal to see the Capitol Stones covered in moss and slowly being absorbed by the surrounding forest. Few hikers stumble their way across the site, so you will likely find yourself alone in this quiet section of the park. Trees have grown up between the piles of stones, and the birds and squirrels of Rock Creek Park clearly consider the Capitol Stones to be part of their habitat now.
Climbing on the stones is not recommended as most stones are precariously and haphazardly strewn around the stone yard. Although some are placed in neat stacks, other stone piles are unstable and likely to topple if disturbed. The best views are easily accessible from the path near the stones or in the open spaces between them. Surprisingly, the stones are free of graffiti and remain in good shape. One can hope all adventurers who visit will leave the stones as they found them so everyone can enjoy this unique look at a forgotten piece of history.
It is not clear whether visiting the site of the Capitol Stones is trespassing. Some adventurers have reported being asked to leave by the National Park Service. However, the only sign indicating the area is off-limits on the day of my visit was laying on the ground behind the stones, where most people would not see it. There is no fence or barrier, but the area is labeled as a maintenance yard on the Park Service map of Rock Creek Park. As with any adventure, I recommend being respectful to any Park Service Rangers or other law enforcement officers you may encounter on your visit and leaving if requested to do so.
The Capitol Stones are one of the best hidden-in-plain-sight adventures in DC. It’s a great adventure to pair with a hike in Rock Creek Park since it is a bit far from public transportation, but it’s worth the effort to see a unique piece of history not found anywhere else.
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Address
Near the Rock Creek Park Horse Center
Metro Station
- Tenleytown-AU (RD)
- Takoma (RD)
- Georgia Ave-Petworth (GR, YL)
Directions
The Capitol Stones are a 2-3 mile walk from the closest metro station. From the Rock Creek Horse Center, head south on the hiking trail. The stones will be on your right about a quarter mile down the path. If you have trouble finding them, the location of the Capitol Stones on Google maps is pretty accurate.
Accessibility
Due to erosion and the steepness of the trailing leading to the Capitol Stones, this adventure is not wheelchair accessible.
Cost
Free
Hours
Rock Creek Park is open during daylight hours.
Length of Adventure
30 minutes
