Brisk Late Winter Hike at Riverbend and Great Falls, VA (Rating: B)
Details
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.
Rating: B (close to an A)
Distance: 10-11 miles
Elevation: 900 feet
Fees: $2/person entry fee
Hike: A 10-11-mile barbell hike with about 900 feet of elevation gain along the Potomac Heritage Trail, Bootlegger Trail, River Trail, Difficult Run Trail, and other trails in Riverbend Park and Great Falls Park, Virginia, starting and ending at Riverbend Park. This is not a beginner hike. Walking surface will be gravel and dirt trails that are rocky, muddy, and possibly slushy in places, with some brief rock scrambles. We'll have some lovely views of the Potomac. Bring plenty of water and some snacks. Dress in layers, and be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear and bring poles if you use them. We hike at a pace of 2.5-3.0 mph when moving.
Park entry fee: $0. However, Fairfax County charges a group admission fee of $30. Each person will be required to pay $2 towards the fee (bring small bills), to be collected by the leader. Any amount over $30 will be donated to the park.
Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy (the dog must be on a leash, and you must tell the hike leader in advance). The dog should be OK with minor rock scrambles.
Map of Riverbend Park available here: Riverbend Park Map
Map of Great Falls Park, Virginia, available here: http://npmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/great-falls-park-map.pdf