Mason Neck State Park (Rating: C)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf ](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.

8.5 miles with 250 foot elevation gain.

A scenic hike at Mason Neck State Park which is situated on a peninsula formed by Pohick Bay on the north, Belmont Bay on the south and the Potomac River on the east. The peninsula is the site of an active heron rookery. The park also attracts several other migrating and non-migrating species of birds, including whistling swans and assorted species of duck. Bald eagles and Osprey also inhabit the area.

Description:
We'll combine several trails in the park to complete an 8,5 mile loop, a couple of the trails are out and back to bird viewing stands. There will be a great view of the bay area as well as a lake and marshes.

Hiking Pace:
Pace will be about 2.5 mph.

There are restrooms at the main picnic area as well as at the Visitor Center which is near where we begin our hike.

The hike is being limited to 25 participants to accommodate the park policy.

Bring:
Adequate water/hydration (at least 2 liters), also snacks/lunch, The route is mostly level and there are no stream crossings. Some sections may get muddy after heavy rains. I recommend sturdy hiking shoes there are areas of the trail with many tree roots covered by fallen leaves.

Park Entrance Fee:
$10.00 park entrance fee (no fee for state park pass holders) or use your REI purchase receipt parking coupon.
Provide your REI receipt parking coupon from a participating Virginia REI, to the contact station ranger or insert it in a self-pay envelope at the contact station.
Use the self-pay envelope to pay the entrance fee if the contact station is not open and hang the tear-off tab on your rear view mirror.

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

Mason Neck Hiking Upward:
https://www.hikingupward.com/OVH/MasonNeck/

Mason Neck State Park:
https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/mason-neck

Meet at the trailhead parking lot 15 minutes early to allow everyone to be signed in and get ready to hike at 9:00am. The gate at the contact station opens at 7:00am.

Meeting Place Instructions: Mason Neck State Park, 7301 High Point Road, Lorton, VA. Access to the park is via U.S. 1, then five miles east on Route 242 (Gunston Road) to the park entrance. Continue into the park on High Point Rd, and take a right onto Outlet Rd. toward the Visitor Center. The main picnic area veers off to the left just before the Visitor Center. We will meet at the main picnic area parking lot. GPS 38.642150, -77.197876

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