Ep 15. Washington, DC

Rock the Park is a television show that follows two avid outdoor enthusiasts, Jack Steward and Colton Smith, as they explore some of America's most breathtaking national parks. In season 3 episode 15, titled Washington, DC, Jack and Colton set their sights on the bustling city known for its monuments and political history.

As soon as they arrive, Jack and Colton get a chance to explore the National Mall, which is lined with some of the most iconic monuments in the country. They start by visiting the Lincoln Memorial, which is a towering statue of Abraham Lincoln that overlooks the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument. They then make their way to the World War II Memorial, which is a solemn tribute to the brave men and women who served during the war. The monument features 56 granite columns and a beautiful fountain that is lit up at night, making it a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike.

Next, Jack and Colton visit the Korean War Veterans Memorial, which is a beautiful display of 19 stainless steel statues depicting soldiers in full combat gear. The memorial is meant to honor the 1.5 million Americans who served in the Korean War, including the more than 36,000 who lost their lives. The sculptures are surrounded by a wall that bears the names of every state and territory that contributed troops to the war effort.

After taking in the city's many monuments, Jack and Colton set their sights on the Potomac River, which runs along the edge of the National Mall. They take a kayak tour of the river, which provides a unique perspective of DC's famous landmarks. Along the way, they pass under the Arlington Memorial Bridge and catch a glimpse of the Pentagon.

As the sun starts to set, Jack and Colton make their way to the Tidal Basin, which is a man-made inlet that is surrounded by cherry blossom trees. The trees were a gift from the Japanese government in 1912 and have become a symbol of the friendship between the two countries. During the spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in pink and white, creating a stunning display that attracts visitors from around the world.

The next day, Jack and Colton venture outside the city to explore the Great Falls of the Potomac, which is a series of cascading waterfalls that are situated between Maryland and Virginia. The falls are part of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park and offer visitors a chance to hike, bike, and kayak along the Potomac River.

Jack and Colton are amazed by the power of the falls and spend hours exploring the surrounding landscape. They hike to the top of the falls, where they can see the river rushing through the rocky terrain. They also take a kayak trip along the river, navigating through small rapids and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.

As their time in DC comes to an end, Jack and Colton reflect on all they've seen and experienced. They marvel at the city's rich history and the natural beauty that can be found just outside its borders. In the end, they come away with a deeper appreciation for the diversity and grandeur of America's National Parks.