The historic headwaters of the stream originate in the Langdon area in Northeast Washington (in the southwest corner of the Langdon Park Community/Recreation Center), however at present this portion of the stream and its tributaries are enclosed in underground pipes and culverts.

[1][2][3] In the 19th century, before urbanization, the stream network consisted of the Hickey Run main stem and 15 tributaries, totaling over 5 miles (8.0 km).

[2] Hickey Run is in a highly urbanized area and its water quality has been rated as poor by government agencies.

[4] The D.C. Department of the Environment has ongoing monitoring and public education activities for Hickey Run, and has plans for stream restoration projects.

[5] Other agencies assisting in Hickey Run improvements include the Anacostia Watershed Restoration Partnership, the National Arboretum and the U.S.