Occoquan Regional Park

Sunday's weather forecast is mild and comfy, so we shouldn't let it go to waste! Let's go for a hike in Occoquan Regional Park!

❶ What we'll do:

• From the meetup point in front of Brickmaker's Cafe, we'll hike upstream along the Cross-County and White trails to get an overview from the heights over the Occoquan River. After returning to the Brickmaker's Cafe area for a short break, we'll continue downstream and follow the Red Trail for a counter-clockwise circuit of the park, to end our hike back at the starting point. Touring the over 100-year-old Brick Kiln and the Suffragist Memorial is at your individual discretion.
• The hike is about 4 miles, and should take no more than 2 hours at a moderate pace. The surface is mostly paved and fairly level, but there are stairs and a 220-foot elevation gain along the White Trail, which is a dirt surface covered with pine needles.
• Google map: https://tinyurl.com/yu2kadc4

❷ How to get there:

• From the I-495 Capital Beltway, take I-95 S for about 8 miles. Take exit 160 to merge onto VA-123 N toward Occoquan/Lake Ridge. Drive about 1.9 miles, passing a 7-Eleven on your left and crossing over the Occoquan River bridge. Take the first right to enter the park. See https://goo.gl/maps/gZHGF5wnDovi9RHt5 (Google directions vary depending on traffic conditions)
• Sorry, this is not a Metro-accessible hike.

❸ What to bring: Water, comfy shoes, and your furry friend if desired (leashes, please). Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended.

❹ Weather: The forecast is partly cloudy and a high of 82F, with light ENE winds. Updates here: https://tinyurl.com/uc4wampa

❺ Advisory: As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is allowed at this event, either as members or as guests, to include babies in carriers and/or strollers.

❻ Administrative stuff: There are restrooms at the entrance to the Brickmaker's Cafe, adjacent to River View.

❼ Notes:

• Occoquan Regional Park, 9751 Ox Road, Lorton VA 22079, (703) 690-2121. https://tinyurl.com/28apyc2e
• Brickmaker's Cafe (opens at 11 am), 9751 Ox Rd, Lorton, VA 22079, (703) 646-9486. https://tinyurl.com/4dnxv5jp

H/T to Abby for the event photo!