Fountainhead Regional Park (Rating: D)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.

This is a 6-mile hike, almost completely under the canopy, with 600 feet of elevation (most of it in the middle third of the hike). There are a few small stream crossings and many tree roots. Also, the trail could be muddy in spots if it has rained recently. The terrain is gently rolling with a couple of very short, steeper climbs. This is a “lollipop” hike. From the Fountainhead parking lot, we will head east to the quiet side of the park, where rarely a horse is seen, and hike the Blue equestrian trail to the Orange equestrian trail, and then back to the Blue trail.

There are some very nice views of the Occoquan Reservoir and Sandy Run. We'll take a short lunch break by the water. We’ll also come across at least one abandoned car!

Fountainhead Regional Park is a hidden gem in the NoVa area, with 2000 acres of deciduous hardwood forest, dedicated to outdoor adventures. The park has an extensive network of trails with separate trails dedicated to mountain biking and equestrian/hiking activities.

DOGS: Are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy

Hike rating: D

Our pace will be 2-2.5 miles per hour when moving.
WHERE TO MEET: After pulling into Fountainhead Park (10875 Hampton Road, Fairfax, VA), go past the maintenance building on the right. The parking lot is the next right turn. Look for a red Tesla with the back hatch open. Please arrive by 8:45AM to get signed in and ready to hike. We leave promptly at 9:00 a.m.

GPS coordinates: 38.724956, -77.329884
Google Maps: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/Pkms2RrWhgak2aeg8]()

AllTrails Map for the hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/fountainhead-equestrian-and-hiking-trail-285a25c-2?u=i&sh=8qiivc

NEED TO KNOW: There are a few small stream crossings, tree roots, some rocky areas. Most of the elevation gain is in the middle third of the hike. If it's rained recently, the trail may be muddy. There is no entrance fee to the park.

BRING: At least 2 liters of water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are a few rocky areas and tree roots. Hiking poles if you use them. We will stop about halfway for lunch.

RESTROOMS: There are restrooms a little beyond the parking lot on the right. Go to the end of the parking lot and take a short walk further ahead to flush toilets. There are also portable toilets in the parking lot.

Leader: Bob Grammar (301) 775-3558 (c)

Any questions, please message me here or text/call at the above number. If you text me, please include your name.

You must be comfortable with hikes of this distance and elevation gain.