Name: Take a Hike! @ Rock Creek Park
Start: 2025-11-02T14:30:00.000Z
Location: Rock Creek Park Nature Center

Join us for a **fun and social hike** at Rock Creek Park as we explore the "Southern Loop," starting from the Nature Center.

Starting at the **Nature Center**, the "Southern Loop via Western Ridge Trail, Rock Creek, and Valley Trail" is a well-loved route. With over 2,700 glowing reviews on AllTrails, it offers beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and a refreshing escape close to the city.

This **easy hike** winds through lush forested trails, showcasing the beauty of Rock Creek Park. While the trail is mostly straightforward, please note that sections **slippery**, so wear sturdy, grippy shoes.

To learn more about the trail, click the link in the **Trail Map section below**.

Get ready for fresh air, great conversations, and plenty of scenic moments! This hike is perfect for all levels, so bring your good vibes and let’s hit the trail together!

**Meeting Time & Location:**
Meet us at 9:30 AM at the **Rock Creek Park Nature Center,** located at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. There’s plenty of parking available at the Nature Center. We’ll gather right in front of the building to start the hike.

**Distance:** 5.6 miles

**Elevation Gain:** 685 feet

**Difficulty:** Level 2 Moderate Walk/Hike
This hike is a moderate walk with natural trails and a few gentle inclines to get your heart rate up. The terrain includes some uneven sections, and the fallen leaves can make it a bit slippery in spots. With sturdy footwear, it’s an enjoyable and accessible hike for most levels.

**Estimated Duration**
This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 hours.

**Pace:** Moderate Pace
We'll walk a steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment.

**Parking**
Ample parking is available at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center, with additional overflow parking located across the street.

**Trail Map (AllTrails)**
[Rock Creek Park - Southern Loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/rock-creek-park-nature-center-a2f0474?u=i&sh=ylk43q)
With over 2,700 reviews on AllTrails, this popular route offers insights into the trail’s conditions and highlights. Click the link above to learn more and prepare for your hike!

**Restrooms**
Restrooms are available at the Nature Center, our meeting point at the start of the hike. They open at 9:00 AM. Additionally, there are restrooms approximately 1 hour into the hike, where we’ll take a brief break.

**Dog Attendance**
For everyone’s comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding!

**Lunch After the Hike**
After the hike, join us for an optional lunch at **Pete’s New Haven Style Apizza** (4940 Wisconsin Ave. NW), an affordable, counter-service spot just a 10 minute drive away. They serve New England-style pizza, pastas, salads, antipasti, and local brews—something for everyone!

Take a Hike! (DMV)

Mark Piscopo

Saif

Michael

Stephen McFarland

Carlos Jaime

Dammon

Barbara Wiley

Lynn Gowen

Beth

Nancy

Jeff G.

Victor

Helen

Cindy Thomas

Chimbu

Marianne CARLSON

Take a Hike! @ Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park Nature Center

Take a Hike!

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