Belle Haven, River Farm, Dyke Marsh (Rating: D with C option)

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.

5.9 mile hike from Belle Haven Marina to River Farm out and back with 148 ft. of elevation; 1.9 mile Dyke Marsh option.

We will hike to River Farm along the Mount Vernon Trail from Belle Haven’s public parking lot.

Once at River Farm, the home of the American Horticultural Society, we will take advantage of the magnificent gardens and have lunch in the gardens over looking the Potomac.

Once part of the George Washington’s original farmland, River Farm is a beautiful 25-acre property of formal and naturalistic gardens, a historic estate house, and magnificent scenic view overlooking the Potomac River.

The headquarters of the American Horticultural Society since 1973, River Farm showcases AHS’ mission to promote the art, science and joy of growing plants.

We will return back along the Mount Vernon Trail which will bring us through the fabulous Wellington Villa neighborhood, offering stunning vistas of the Potomac River.

For those wishing to extend the 5.9 mile hike another 1.9 miles, there is the option of walking out to the end of Dyke’s Marsh which is adjacent to both Belle Haven Marina and our parking lot.

Dyke Marsh is one of the largest remaining freshwater tidal wetlands in the Washington metropolitan area. Its 485 acres of tidal marsh, floodplain, and swamp forest can be explored by boat or on foot.

Pace: The pace will be about 2.5 mph while moving.

Bring: adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes and hiking poles if you use them.

Fee: None

Dogs are welcome. NVHC Dog Policy

Weather: weather for this location is HERE.

Where to Meet:
We will meet in the public parking lot adjacent to Belle Haven Marina,
6401 George Washington Memorial Parkway. GPS Link

As soon as you make the left as if to go to Belle Haven Marina, you make an immediate left to enter the public parking lot.

Facilities: Belle Haven Marina, River Farm

Post-Hike Fellowship: The Haven GPS LINK
Literally five minutes if that from Belle Haven Marina. There is ample parking on Potomac Avenue right before arriving at the restaurant.
Questions, please message me here or text to 703 533 9231
Dawn