Scott's Run

A Federal holiday is a terrible thing to waste. Sorry for not getting this on the calendar sooner, but it looks like we can get in a short hike before the probability of showers increases in the afternoon. Scott's Run is the perfect place!

Scott’s Run Nature Preserve is home to the closest waterfall to Washington DC and a beautiful overlook of the Potomac. It's a small park, with lots of secondary trails to explore, but don't underestimate it - one circuit provides enough log scrambles and hill climbs for a fun short hike.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/d/4/c/600_354176652.jpeg

The route: From the north end of the parking lot, we’ll follow the trail along Scott’s Run downstream, crossing it twice over stepping stones at low water crossings before arriving at the waterfall where Scott’s Run empties into the Potomac. From there we’ll walk east, downstream along the Potomac Heritage Trail to a cliff overlook with a great view of the Potomac. Then it’s back south almost to the east parking lot of the park before turning west to walk back through the woods to our starting point.

The main route is around 2.25 miles, but we may stray off onto a secondary trail or two just for kicks.

The surface is gravel and dirt paths. Overall difficulty is moderate but there are steps, steep climbs and log scrambles here and there that occasionally bump it up a notch.

• Google map: http://tinyurl.com/pe3xo9t

How to get there: From the I-495 Capital Beltway (either direction), take exit 44 for VA-193/Georgetown Pike towards Langley/Great Falls. Drive west about 0.7 miles, going past the first sign for Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, to the intersection with Swinks Mill Road. The entrance to the parking area will be on your right.

Sorry, this is not a Metro-accessible hike.

What to bring: Water, sturdy walking shoes with some tread on them, and your furry friend if desired (leashes, please). Sunscreen and insect repellent are a recommended. This is a kids-free zone, no one under the age of 18 please.

Administrative stuff: There are no restrooms or drinking fountains at Scott’s Run Nature Preserve. There is a McDonalds about 2.5 miles away in McLean at 6920 Old Dominion Drive if you need to make a pit stop before the hike.

Notes:

• Fairfax County website: http://tinyurl.com/p4d8yab

• Weather forecast: http://tinyurl.com/oqc5kf4