2-Day Backpack - Caledon State Park (13.5 Miles) + Pancho Villa
Details
Caledon State Park is a 2,500-acre property in King George County that has been designated as a National Natural Landmark. The park includes 16 miles of hiking trails and is home to old growth forests and American bald eagles. Given the low mileage and modest elevation gain, this backpacking trip is a great choice for those who are new to the sport or who are trying to get back into it.
We will meet on the sidewalk between the parking garage and the bus lane at the Franconia-Springfield Metro Station at 8:00 AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends.
## Trail Facts
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Length: 13.5 Miles
- Duration: 2 Days
- Elevation Gain: 702 Feet
- Bear Canisters: Not Required
- Permits: Not required, although I ask that each person chips in $5 to help cover the cost of the camping reservation. You can give me cash or send me money via PayPal or Venmo.
- Dogs: Allowed on leash at the park, but not at the post-trip meal location.
- Parking: Franconia-Springfield Metro Station (Free garage parking is available if you aren't driving to the trailhead.)
- Trailhead Coordinates: 38.33376579936516, -77.14297900500688
- AllTrails Maps: Day 1, Part 1 / Day 1, Part 2 / Day 2
Trail Details:
Day 1, Part 1: After arriving at the park we will put on our packs and hike about 7 miles with 456 feet of elevation gain. During this leg of our journey we will stop by a few overlooks of the Potomac River and, if we're lucky, we may see some bald eagles. This loop will take us back to the Visitor Center, where you'll have the opportunity to top off your water supplies and check out the exhibits while Jonathan checks in on behalf of the group. You should be prepared to carry enough water to last you until we get back to our cars on Sunday, as there is a chance that the water that we'll be camping near is brackish.
Day 1, Part 2: Once the group is ready we'll hike another 3.5 miles with 75 feet of elevation gain to our camping location near the Potomac River and Jones Pond. I have reserved four camping sites, with two tents allowed per site. We will set up camp, eat dinner, and relax around the fire as we wind down the day. There will likely be a lot of free time, so consider bringing games or some other form of entertainment.
Day 2: While during many backpacking trips it is helpful to start early the second day, on this trip we can take our time in the morning as we wake up, eat breakfast, and pack. I still anticipate that we'll be able to depart our camping spot by 10:00 a.m. and hike a slightly different route of 3 miles with 171 feet of elevation gain back to our cars.
I plan to stop at Pancho Villa in Stafford on the way home -- the address is 155 Garrisonville Rd, Stafford, VA 22554.
Gear List
Note: Be prepared for varying temperatures; layering is key.
Essential Items:
- Tent
- Sleeping pad
- Sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures
- Backpack (appropriate for overnight backpacking)
- Backpacking stove with fuel
- Pot, cup, dish, and utensils
- Dehydrated meals and snacks (for lunch and dinner on Saturday and for breakfast on Sunday)
- Water bottles or hydration system (3-liter capacity)
- Bag or canister for securely storing food and other scented items
- Water filter or purification tablets
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Rain gear
- Dry bags or pack cover
- Warm clothing layers (non-cotton)
- Trowel and toiletries for Leave No Trace compliance
Optional Items:
- Personal first aid kit
- Map and compass or GPS device
- Power bank or external battery
- Trekking poles
- Camp shoes
- Electrolyte supplements
- Alcohol
- Books, games, or other entertainment
- Gaiters
- Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent
LIABILITY NOTICE:
Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.
For more information on the common adventurer model, please see Ron Watters' definition.
If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the US Forest Service.
See you on the trail!
2-Day Backpack - Caledon State Park (13.5 Miles) + Pancho Villa