Rock Creek Western Ridge, Northern Section; 7.3 or 10.2  Miles

Rock Creek Western Ridge, Northern Section; 7.3 or 10.2 Miles

Enjoy this 7.3-mile loop trail in Rock Creek Park, with an option for 2.9 additional. This hike meanders through gentle hills, historic sites, and lush scenery, making it an ideal outing for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. The hike is generally considered a moderate one and takes an average of 3.5 hours to complete the first part and a total of 5 hours for the longer hike. We will pass by the Milkhouse Ford, the site of a civil war fort, Fort DeRussy, and the cabin of the “Poet of Rock Creek," Joaquin Miller. We also pass by a large community urban garden. There is a fun little stream crossing, so feel free to bring a pole if you wish. So long as we don't get a heavy rain, the stream should be crossable. At the end of the first hike, we will have snack or lunch (bring your own), and for those who wish, we will continue for 2.9 miles more. The hike follows the Western Ridge trail south before traveling through a picturesque downhill to Rock Creek, then follows the creek for a while before heading back up to the trailhead.

Fido is welcome but must be on a leash.

The 7.3 mile hike should end around 12:30. The 10.2 mile hike should end around 2:00

Please note: You must register by 9:00 PM the night before the hike. We also ask that if you sign up and decide not to attend, please sign out. We often have a waiting list and signing out allows others to sign in.

Time to Meet:
Please meet at 8:45 AM for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:00

Directions to Trailhead:
We meet at the Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium, 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015.
The GPS coordinates are 38.96062, -77.05157

Contact Information:
Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader are Tim; 202-744-0289 and Christa; 410.610.6254. Call or text as needed.

Details:
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 7.3 or 10.2 miles (your choice)
Elevation Gain: Approximately 700 ft (7.3 miles), or 1,000 ft (10.2 miles)
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: Toilets can be found near the trailhead
Fees: No entrance fees

Cancellation:
In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.

Weather:
The weather for this location can be found here.

Notes:
-Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike.
-Please do not show up unregistered.
-Please keep this a fragrance free event.
-To find out more about PATC, click here.
-Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, click here.