Take a Hike! @ Riverbend Park (Moved from Difficult Run)

Meet new friends and enjoy the great outdoors with a day of fresh air, scenic trails, and great conversation as we hike a 4.2-mile loop from Riverbend Park to Great Falls Overlook and back! This hike offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and social connection, giving you a chance to enjoy nature while meeting others who share your love for the outdoors.

We’ll start at the Riverbend Park parking lot and follow a scenic trail through the woods with a few small inclines, then on the return from the Overlook we'll follow the trail along the Potomac River. The route winds through peaceful woodlands and scenic riverside paths, leading to the stunning Great Falls Overlook 2. This is an easy-to-moderate hike, with mostly flat terrain and a few gentle inclines, making it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. The hike will take about 2.5 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy the views and good company.

Afterward, join us for lunch at Mookie's BBQ. It’s the perfect way to relax, socialize, and share stories with fellow hikers.

Whether you’re here for the scenery, the exercise, or to connect with like-minded people, this outing promises to be a memorable experience. Spots fill quickly, so don’t wait to sign up!

Meeting Time & Location:
We’ll meet at 9:30 AM in the Riverbend Park parking lot. Please refer to the map pin for the exact location.

Distance: 4.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 302 feet

Difficulty: Easy (a few gentle inclines)
This hike features natural, well-maintained trails that are mostly flat, with a few easy-to-walk uphill sections near the beginning. The wide and smooth paths make it easy to walk and chat with others along the way. With minimal obstacles and straightforward navigation, this hike is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an enjoyable and manageable outdoor adventure.

Estimated Duration
This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 hours.

Pace: Moderate Pace
We'll walk a steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment.

Parking
We’ll park at the Riverbend Park parking lot, which has ample spaces and serves as the starting point for our hike. Please check the event map for the exact location to ensure you arrive at the correct lot.

Trail Map (AllTrails)
Take a Hike! (DMV) - Riverbend Park (Great Falls Overlook 2)
Preview the hiking route on AllTrails to get familiar with the terrain. Download the map in advance to follow along and stay on track during the hike.

Dogs on the Trail
For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding!

Restrooms
Restrooms are available at the Riverbend Park Visitor Center and at the Great Falls Visitor Center.

Lunch After the Hike
Join us after the hike for a casual lunch at Mookie's BBQ, 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066 - (703) 759-2386. It’s a great chance to relax, enjoy a meal, and connect with fellow hikers.