Billy Goat Path A

Join us for a classic DC area hike: The Billy Goat Path Part A. This is a rugged and challenging rail along the Potomac River just downstream from Great Falls on the Maryland side. Although it is only 5 miles long, the ruggedness makes this a moderate hike. Proper footwear required (but this includes sneakers and hiking sandals). For those who have not done the Billy Goat Path, see https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/billy-goat-trail.htm.

We will meet at the Great Falls Tavern Visitors Center at 8:45 am for a 9:00 am start. We will first do the Overlook Trail for a scenic view of the area from up on the bluffs. Then we will cut over the the start of the Billy Goat Path Part A. After doing BGT A, we will head back along the C&O Canal Towpath to the Visitor's Center with an optional side trip onto Olmstead Island to see Great Falls.

Visitor's Center Address: 11710 MacArthur Blvd., Potomac, MD 20854.
Directions from the Beltway: Take exit 41 onto the Clara Barton Parkway west towards Carderock. Follow the Clara Barton Parkway until it ends at MacArthur Blvd. Turn left and follow MacArthur Blvd. until it ends at the Great Falls Park entrance station. As you enter, the parking will be towards the right and the visitor's center off to your left. Please allow an extra 15 minutes to get through the entrance station if the government shutdown has ended.

Please bring lunch/snack, water, and proper footwear (as mentioned above). You need to be in good condition to do this hike. Please contact the hike leader if you have any concerns about that. If it will be a cold day, please dress in layers and avoid cotton clothing.

Edward 703-850-3251