C&O Canal National Historic Park, Great Falls, MD- Fee Free Day (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.

7.2 miles with 250 feet elevation gain.

Fee Free Day!

Join us in celebrating National Park Service birthday for a nice hike along the scenic Potomac River and adjoining forests of C&O Canal National Historical Park, Great Falls, Maryland.

Description:
Beat the heat with an early and short hike.

We'll start our hike with the Ford Mine Trail. Once completing that trail, we will then reconnect to the towpath and complete the River Trail which runs along the Potomac River. Both trails are in the forest canopy. After a short break at the Tavern Visitor Center, we'll head down to Olmsted Island to enjoy the cascading water and Potomac River Overlook.

There are a few small stream crossings on Ford Mine trail that are easily crossed.

The pace will be about 2.5 mph but adjusted for conditions.

Bring:
Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas and tree roots in the forest. Restrooms are open near the Tavern visitor center. May want to also bring some insect repellent.

Meet:
We will meet on the sidewalk in front of the old refreshment snack bar on the right side of the parking lot before you get to the restrooms and Tavern visitor center. The snack bar is currently closed but it is under the tree canopy. Look for me by the fence anxiously awaiting your arrival.
Please plan on being there at 8:45am so we can get everyone signed in and start the hike on time.

Dogs are welcome. Dog Policy https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy
NOTE: Dogs are not allowed on Olmsted Island so you will have to wait for us at the entrance to the boardwalk (it's shaded).

Park Fee: Park Fees waived on National Park Service Birthday.

Map of Hiking Trails at Great Falls, Maryland:
https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf

Directions to Park:
https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/greatfallstavernvisitorcenter.htm
GPS: 39.00223, -77.24697

Any questions, please message me on Meetup or text/call @202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.