Billy Goat Trail (4.9 miles, 177ft, scrambles) & Old Angler’s Inn

Join LMH for this DC-area classic hike, where we’ll take in sweeping views of the Potomac and enjoy some challenging rock scrambles.

The meeting point is Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center parking lot on the MARYLAND side of the river. We will post a message on the meetup page to share our location if there’s cell service. Note that this is a National Park Service-managed property so an annual parks pass or $20 entrance fee per car is required.

We’ll follow Billy Goat A trail and return along the C&O Canal, then go for lunch at Old Angler’s Inn .

Note that while the distance and elevation for this hike are moderate, the trail is technical. It’s not suitable for people who are afraid of heights or uncomfortable with rock scrambles. Hiking boots or shoes required. We will plan to move at a 2mph pace and take a snack break at an overlook.

As of now the temperature looks moderate and there’s a chance of rain in the afternoon. Please bring rain gear. Note that this route is sometimes closed due to flooding. We will cancel the hike if the trail is closed.

CARPOOLING:
We encourage those with cars to be willing to carpool - you're the ones who make LMH great!
If you're a driver that is willing to drive, please post a comment on the event page with the following information:
(1) Number of seats
(2) Meeting location
(3) Meeting time
As a rider, please comment on the driver's post to take a seat or post in the comments that you need a ride so a driver can find you. Riders are encouraged to help their driver out with the cost of gas.
By signing up for this event, you acknowledge and agree that Late Morning Hikers, its volunteer organizers, and drivers who volunteer to carpool are not responsible or liable for accidents, injuries, damage, or losses that may occur while traveling to or from the hike. Late Morning Hikers does not condone or encourage impaired driving. Drivers are expected to follow applicable laws and make responsible transportation choices.
We look forward to hiking with you!

BACKGROUND INFO ABOUT LMH: Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers initiating trips under the common adventurer model (http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm). We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking. This is not a group for first time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction.
We are also not professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all LMH events. Be sure to choose to attend hikes only within your own physical abilities and and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require) and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times.
Act responsibly and safely: if you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service (https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost)
LMH organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any aspect of LMH activities. By attending this event, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to the contents of our waiver of liability in the following link (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0)