Easy thru Hard - Potomac Heritage Trail - Seneca to Riverbend Park

Ok looks like there is a lot of interest and given the temps this seems like a good idea to plan something fairly flat and "short". I also know weve been a bit sparse on close-in on-leash hikes so here ya go :)

Where: This trail is actually part of the much larger Potomac Heritage Trail (http://www.nps.gov/pohe/planyourvisit/maps.htm). You can find some more great info here (http://www.potomactrail.org/trailinfo/gmap.html) as well as a nice guide (http://www.potomactrail.org/trailinfo/PHNST_Trail_Guide.pdf) for the several popular sections (to include ours titled "Seneca to Difficult Run" for which we plan to stop at Riverbend Park)

When: I would like to get everyone there by 7:30 so we can start shuttling cars (see below) and be on the trail by 8:15. Being early will ensure it is cool and the trails aren't too busy.

Directions: Drive to the very end of Seneca Rd (http://goo.gl/maps/BKwi) (click link for custom google map directions)

Length: Variable. The distance from Seneca Rd to Riverbend Park is 6 miles one way. So a round trip becomes a 12 mile hike. That is quite a bit. We have two alternatives from which everyone can choose with a little planning.

• First and simplest, walk as far as you feel comfortable, turn around and head back. Anyone can choose this.

• Second is to run this hike as a point-to-point hike. That will mean a little prior planning and cooperation. Some folks will need to leave cars at the Riverbend Park parking lot, be shuttled to the start (~15 min drive), and then reverse the shuttle at the end.

• Please answer the questions about which option you think you will do when you RSVP. We can formulate a loose plan in the comments section. Generally, if people are willing to let someone else hold their dog, we only need a few cars prepositioned to accomplish the shuttle

Difficulty: This is as easy or hard of a hike as you want it to be. If 6 miles is too much for you or your dog you are free to turn-around at any point and head back. Anyone wishing to hike even further than Riverbend Park is also welcome, just remember you have to hike back or have a prepositioned car at Riverbend Park.

Leashes: This is an ON-LEASH hike.

Water: It is your call if you want to allow your dog to drink from any streams running into the Potomac, but you can rest assured I won't be. Bring plenty of water for both you and your furry friend.

Foot Wear: Sturdy shoes are recommended, be prepared to possible get wet. Synthetic socks are also a good idea so they don't become waterlogged and heavy.

Clothing: I expect it to be HOT, dress accordingly

Food: A snack for the trail is always a good idea and will go down nice while waiting for your shuttle ride at the park. A cooler with ice is also quite nice at the end of the hike. You are responsible for following local laws as to the contents of said cooler.

Contact Me: I will provide my cell number to attendees the day before the event. Last minute cancellations are bad-enough, please let me know as soon as you can so I'm not waiting around for anyone.

PS: I have removed all "Yes" RSVP's to this event to start fresh. If you are able to attend please change yourself back.