Blockhouse Point / C&O Canal Hike

This 7-mile circuit hike is a great local hike that travels through a few eras of time along the Potomac River. Our planned loop is rated as easy/moderate with approximately 500 feet of elevation gain over variable terrain and some tricky footing in one area. There there will likely be mud somewhere along the way.

Our hike visits both the C&O Canal and Blockhouse Point in Darnestown, Maryland. The Blockhouse played a role in Civil War history as a supply complex, nestled in upland forest overlooking the Potomac River. We'll be travelling over trails over 150 years old. We might to see a few local winter birds as we pass the Dierssen Wildlife Management Area and along the C&O Canal. And of course, we’ll have Potomac River views for days from atop the high bluff.

Meet at the Rockville Metro Station at 10 a.m. to form carpools. We’ll gather at the Kiss & Ride lot on the west side of the station (the side on of MD-355).

Bring mud-worthy sturdy footwear, water, snacks, lunch, sunscreen, and bug spray. Trip fee: $6. ($1 transportation, $5 Adventuring trip fee**) There will NOT be a pit stop on the way to the trailhead. RSVPs open 2 weeks before the event.

**Effective immediately, Adventuring will waive the $5 trip fee for any federal employee or contractor who has been furloughed during the current Shutdown. Trip participants will still have to pay their share of transportation costs.

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