Three Arlington Waterfalls:Windy Run->Donaldson Run/Potomac Overlook (Rating: C)

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 6.1 mile lariat hike with ~450 feet of elevation.

Rating: C

A low C, based on distance and elevation, but strenuous due to 15+ stream crossings on rocks, and four short but steep ascents/descents (two in each direction). Several places on the trail are rocky and require maneuvering around and over medium sized rocks and downed trees. This hike will be a great workout!

The reward for your efforts will be views of three close-in waterfalls where water falls 50-100’ into the Potomac. There are also 2.6 miles (1.3 miles in each direction) of sweeping views of the Potomac River including the Key Bridge, Georgetown, and the Washington Monument. We will also pass by the remnants of construction equipment from an early 20th century quarry.

We will meet at the Windy Run Park trail head and descend to the Potomac River, where we pick up the Potomac Heritage Trail and hike 1.3 miles to Donaldson Run. We’ll hike into Donaldson Run Park making our way to the Nature Center at Potomac Overlook Regional Park, where we’ll stop for a snack break. There are three live Virginia Native Birds of Prey (Red Shouldered Hawk, Barred Owl, and Great Horned Owl) on display here. After our break we return, mostly along the route we came.

You must be experienced with hikes of this distance and elevation gain, and comfortable with stream crossings on rocks (there are 15 moderately difficult crossings) and hiking on/around rocks and roots.

Pace is 2-2.5mph, slower over rocks and inclines.

Where to meet: Meet at the Windy Run Park trailhead at the end of North Kenmore Street. Use the GPS coordinates/Google map link if possible as some people have reported using the Windy Run Park address took them to another location. The park is located at the end of N. Kenmore Street off Lorcom Lane, in North Arlington.

GPS Coordinates: 38.9023, -77.0986
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AaH3DXmz8jsxPZ1AA

Please plan on arriving by 8:45am so we can get everyone signed in and start the hike on time at 9:00am. Morning rush hour traffic can be unpredictable, so please plan accordingly.

Parking is limited at the trailhead cul-de-sac to about 7 or 8 cars. Please park head in to maximize the space. There is additional street parking on North Kenmore Street before the trailhead, but be mindful of the no parking signs. Carpooling is suggested if possible.

Bring: Sturdy hiking shoes or boots, since there are several rocky areas, tree roots, and 15+ stream crossings on rocks. Hiking poles are recommended if you use them. Adequate water/hydration, sunscreen, and a snack.

Current weather forecast is for partly cloudy skies, with temps in the low 60's at the start, rising to the low 70's at the end, with low humidity and a nice breeze. Great fall hiking weather.

Restrooms are available at the Potomac Overlook Parking area and the Nature Center where we will stop for a snack. There are no restrooms at the trailhead.

Rehydration: Island Time Bar & Grill, located at Columbia Island Marina less than 10 minutes from the trail head directly off the GW Parkway.
Island Time has water views, a full bar, beer on tap, and a food menu of sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. Plenty of free parking. A little bit of Key West in DC. Google map directions to Island Time from the trailhead.

Leader: Bob Grammar (301) 775-3558 (C).

Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy. Please contact me first if you plan to bring your pup.

Map of the hike: Three Arlington Waterfalls: Windy Run to Donaldson Run/Potomac Overlook Park

Any questions, please message me here or text/call @ (301) 775-3558. If you text me, please include your name.