Hiking with Your Dog

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. **8.63 mile circuit hike with 456 feet of elevation gain.** **Description:** This beautiful hike starts out in **[Riverbend Park](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend/hours)** and follows the **[Potomac Heritage trail](https://www.nps.gov/pohe/index.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/pohe/index.htm) to **[Great Falls Park](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/index.htm)** offering **spectacular views** of the **Potomac River** and the **Great Falls**. We will stop **briefly** at the **3 Great Falls Overlooks** for some amazing views of the **falls** and **Mather’s Gorge.** From there we continue along the **Old Carriage Road** to the **Swamp Trail** and up to the **Ridge Trail.** A**t** this point, we head down to and cross **Route 193** into the **Difficult Run Parking lot**. We then follow a small portion of **Difficult Run** **Trail** to the **Ridge Trail** that will take us to the **Matildaville Trail** and finally back onto the **River Trail** overlooking the **Potomac River** as we head back to **Riverbend Park. (see [MAP](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf))** **Hike Pace**: Pace will be about **2.5 mph**. **Bring:** Adequate water/hydration, snacks/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are some rocky areas/tree roots on the River Trail. Hiking poles if you normally use them. There are no stream crossings. **Fee:** There is **no entrance fee** at Riverbend Park, but I will need to collect **$2.00** from each hiker to cover the cost of **group fees** at Riverbend. for groups of 12 or more. I will get the **Group Permit** in advance. Small bills only please! **Dogs:** dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the [NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy). **Great Falls Trail Map:** [https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/grfa/upload/GRFA-complete-map-508.pdf) **Where to Meet:** Meet in the parking lot across from the [Riverbend Park Visitor's Center](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend-park) at 8:45 to allow everyone to get signed in and ready to hike at 9:00 am. The Hatchback of my Honda Fit will be up. **Coordinates** 39.01817, -77.24599 **Address:** 8700-8814 Jeffery Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066 Any questions, please message me here or text me at 703 533 9231 Dawn K. Rehydration: [The Old Brogue](https://oldbrogue.com/)

We will be hiking the loop trail, (counter clockwise) around the BeaverDam Reservoir starting at the brand new Reservoir Park VisitorsCenter. Beautiful views of the water and varied woodland areas. This is an 7.5 Mile loop hike around one of Northern Virginia's largest bodies of water. The loop is mainly flat with a tiny hill or two. I've rated the loop moderate because the distance is 7.5 miles. After the hike we'll head over to Lark Brewing. 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105 for food and beverages. \*\* I will make every effort for your safety. You are hiking at your own risk. Dogs are welcome on the hike as long as they are good with groups, friendly and you follow all leash laws. I like kids but this is an adult event so please no kids or any one under 21.\*\* Reservoir Park Trail on AllTrails https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/reservoir-park-trail?sh=lkkoxr&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

Alright people, it's 2026. Let's start the hiking season off with an easier classic - Raven Rocks. Raven Rocks is a short out-and-back section of the AT that ends with a stunning view. The terrain is very rocky (wear good shoes), but this hike should be relatively quick. Wear layers as the temps can change quickly this time of year. We will meet at Vienna Metro at 9AM and carpool to the trailhead. Drive time is about 45 mins - Please post a comment below if you are willing to drive. Carpooling saves the environment and makes friends. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 5.7 Miles * **Duration:** 4 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 1,535 Feet * **Permits:** No * **Parking:** Vienna Metro Station South * **Dogs:** Allowed * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.116468, -77.852405 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/raven-rocks-via-appalachian-trail **Trail Details:** This out-and-back hike is considered moderate, but some locals call it "the rollercoaster" due to it winding up and down over several ridges. The view from Raven Rocks is spectacular and worth going uphill both ways. Dogs are allowed on this trail (please use a leash). A note on parking - If you plan to be one of the drivers, the parking at the trailhead is very limited. If the lot at the trailhead is full, there is a large commuter lot across VA 7. Do **not** park along Pine Rd (road that leads to the trailhead lot) as it is very likely you will be towed. On the way back, I plan to stop at Lark Brewing Co in Aldie, VA. The address is 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105. **LIABILITY NOTICE:** Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​ For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).​ If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost). ​ See you on the trail!

**This scenic scamper is a \~2mile moderate hike that has uneven terrain & is relatively flat.** Pace: 2mph. The trek traverses Camp Seneca park, home to [the Lodge at Little Seneca Creek](https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/lodge-little-seneca-creek/) which hosts various social gatherings, as well as a charming corridor of a Creek sharing the same name. After egressing from the Lodge the circuit STEEPLY ascends a hill, disappearing off-trail into the wilderness. Summiting this proud plateau offers vacuous views of the surrounding landscape. The hike then follows a faint fire road, occasionally obstructed by downed trees, revealing a small stream. Navigating away from the stream and towards little Seneca Creek traverses through viny **thorns & brambles!** Latter of the circuit parallels the creek, at times CAUTIOUSLY cliff side, featuring a delightful Beaver Dam & creek cascade (pictured) before eventually concluding back at the Lodge via lollygagging across a lavish lawn. Terrific lean-mean-green trees along the way too! NOTES: 1\. Trail Forecast= [AllTrails MAP](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/activity-january-22-2025-5ef0599-2) \| Boots & Trek Poles advised\! 2\. Consider "thicker\- wear" for the thorns/ brambles\. 3\. Post\- social @[Chicken Pocha](https://maps.app.goo.gl/hi1s5HvXgBfbdGbBA) \| [menu (Korean fried chicken/ bbq)](https://chickenpocha.com/menu/)

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. This is an A+ hike due to distance and elevation. **PLEASE READ THIS ENTIRE POST BEFORE RSVPING.** **PLEASE NOTE**: \*\*\*\* This hike is only suitable for those who have recent experience hiking this distance and elevation gain. **If I don’t know you, you MUST message me within 24 hours of signing up with a recent A+ hike you have done or a hike leader who can vouch for you. Otherwise, you will be moved to “Not Going”. \*\*\*** There are 3 potentially tricky water crossings depending on the water level. Shoe covers are advised. **\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* THE GOOD STUFF \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*** This is a new twist on the classic lollipop hike of 13.8ish miles and about 3,100 feet of elevation gain. We will be doing this hike in the opposite direction from what most people know, which means we’ll hit the overlook at Bear Church Rock in the afternoon rather than in the morning. We'll start the hike on the Graves Mill Trail then take the Staunton River Trail to the Fork Mountain Fire Road to the Jones Mountain Trail, where we’ll eventually hit Bear Church Rock, then back to the Staunton River Trail and Graves Mill Trail to the cars. \***For those wishing to CARPOOL**, the suggested carpool location is at the Centreville Park and Ride, 14700 Lee Highway, Centreville, VA. The driving time from there to the trailhead is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes **(with no stop)**. Please arrive at the Park and Ride before 6:00 AM to form carpools **so all cars can leave a little after 6:00 AM**. **I WILL BE MEETING EVERYONE AT THE TRAILHEAD.** PLEASE NOTE: Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and participation is at your own risk. Suggested carpool fee: $8.00 per rider. **Need-to-know info:** * CARPOOLING: See above. Parking is limited so carpooling is advised. * Distance: 13.8ish miles * Elevation gain: 3,100ish ft. * Pace: 2.25 - 2.75 mph overall * Trailhead meetup time: 8:00 A.M. Hike starts at 8:15 A.M. **SHARP**. * **Parking Coordinates: 38.43714,-78.36709** * Park Entry fee: $0 * Carpool Fee: $8 * Pace: 2.25-2.75 mph when moving. * Terrain: Somewhat rocky, steep and gentle grades, three stream crossings * Bring: Adequate water, lunch/snacks, hat, tick/bug spray, basic first aid kit, map, rain gear (depending), hiking poles, hiking shoes, boot covers for the stream crossing (just to be prepared) and a good attitude. * Pets: Not allowed per the hike leader's decision * NO complainers allowed! :-) PLEASE PRINT OUT ANY MAPS THAT YOU MAY NEED AS I DO NOT PROVIDE COPIES OF MAPS. ALL THE LINKS AND COORDINATES YOU WILL NEED HAVE BEEN PROVIDED. AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/reverse-bear-church-rock-de03bef](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/reverse-bear-church-rock-de03bef) AND FINALLY! 1. Don't come if you’re not feeling well. 2. Avoid the most severe, unspeakable bad karma by CHANGING YOUR RSVP if you're not able to attend within a reasonable time - not hours before. Any questions? Message or call the Hike Leader: Susan M (703) 963-8939

Hello Adventurous Hikers!!! Welcome to another alternate Saturday hike at 8:30 AM! This hike is planned for the coming Saturday (sorry for the short notice) and **will NOT be at Great Falls Park.** We will meet at the Roosevelt Island parking lot at the end nearest the entrance. Note that this lot is accessible ONLY from the northbound George Washington Parkway. If you will be coming from Virginia on I-66, you will have to cross the Roosevelt bridge, exit onto Independance Ave, make a quick U-turn and re-cross the bridge back to Virginia to access the NB GW. The parking lot entrance comes up almost immediately on the right once you enter the parkway. **Note that the start time is 8:30 to ensure a parking spot.** The hike will be from the parking lot north along the river on the Potomac Heritage trail to Chain Bridge - about 9 miles roundtrip. There are a couple of stream crossings that are not difficult and one rock scramble (with "handrail" - see photo). If anyone has enough energy left, we can then hike onto and around Roosevelt Island if you have never done so. That trail is flat and a lot of it is on a boardwalk. If anyone from Herndon, Reston, or Sterling wants to carpool with me, I can accomodate 3 hikers! Please ask me directly if you have any questions. Hike may be cancelled if there is not sufficiant interest so sign up soon! Thanks Dick

Join us for an easy hike along the **Difficult Run Trail to Great Falls Park** and kick off your day with **great company** and engaging conversations! The trail is **mostly flat**, but a **246-foot incline within Great Falls Park** will give us a fun little cardio challenge. Don’t worry - we’ll pause at the top to regroup, hydrate, and catch our breath while soaking in the views. Whether you're here for the exercise, the scenery, or the chance to meet like-minded people, this hike has something for everyone! This trail is packed with sights: enjoy picturesque views along Difficult Run Stream and breathtaking overlooks of the Potomac River from up high. We’ll even come across a picnic table at the top of one incline, the perfect spot to rest, take in the view, and soak up some good vibes! Afterward, join us for an optional lunch at Mookie's BBQ to relax and unwind after our hike. **Meeting Time & Location** Meet at 9:30 AM at [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7). If you're running a bit late, you can catch up with us at the Difficult Run parking lot off Georgetown Pike - we’ll pass through about 30 minutes into the hike. **Distance:** 5 miles **Difficulty:** Easy (246 feet of elevation gain) This hike is rated Easy for its gentle terrain, wide paths, and manageable 246 feet of elevation gain. * **Easy Water Crossing:** Large stepping stones make the stream crossing simple and safe. * **No Rock Scrambling or Steep Climbs:** The trail has no steep rocky sections or scrambling required. * **Mild Inclines:** The mostly flat route includes a gentle 246 foot incline within Great Falls Park. **Pace:** Moderate Pace 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** Plenty of parking is available. You can park off Route 683 by [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7) (be sure to park head-in, with your car clear of the street). Additional parking is on the shoulder of Kelso Road. The trailhead is at the intersection of Route 683 and Kelso Road, marked with a crosswalk. **Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! (DMV) - Difficult Run to Great Falls Park](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/difficult-run-from-683-23fa71c) **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** Join us for an optional lunch after the hike at **Mookie's BBQ, 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066**. It’s a perfect way to relax and unwind after our time outdoors!

Questions/lost? Call 240-447-4796 Meeting place - https://maps.app.goo.gl/t8gATK8r3Axbioko7 https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-and-valley-trail-loop 3.9mi Length 469ft Elevation gain 1.5–2hr Estimated time Loop Step into the great wild backyard of Washington D.C. on the Western Ridge and Valley Trail Loop! This trail offers a wonderful escape from the city streets. You will wander through a thick forest of American beech, tulip poplars, and white oaks. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer or the bright flash of a Northern Cardinal. The trail is well-marked, though it can get quite muddy after a good rain. Because of the rolling hills and natural dirt paths, wearing sturdy sneakers or hiking boots is a great idea to keep you steady.

Let's continue exploring the historic lockhouses along the C&O Canal, this time staying in a primitive one -- Pennyfield Lock, located by Lock 22. As this is a primitive lockhouse there are NO modern amenities (running water, electricity, heat, or kitchen), and so you will need to bring everything you need to stay comfortable during this one-night stay. We can enjoy some easy hikes along the towpath and through the nearby Blockhouse Point Conservation Park during our visit. Due to the location of the lockhouse, a carpooling spot has not been established. A WhatsApp group will be created closer to the event and will be used to coordinate rides and other event logistics. We will plan to meet at the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 14.2 Miles * **Duration:** 4.5-5.5 hrs * **Elevation Gain:** 506 Feet * **Permits:** Juanatán will provide overnight parking permits to drivers. * **Parking:** Carpooling will be coordinated via WhatsApp. * **Dogs:** Not allowed inside the lockhouse, sorry. * **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.05497688136813, -77.29032396969912 * **AllTrails Maps**: * https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-af4793c?u=i&sh=kucj8c * https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-9e94313?u=i&sh=kucj8c **Trail Details:** We will arrive at the parking lot near the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. We won't be able to check in, so we will go on a hike to Seneca Quarry, where we can explore some old structures that used to be part of the canal system. We will take a slightly different route back through Blockhouse Point Conservation Park. By then we will be ready to check in to the lockhouse. Everyone will need to carry their gear 0.1 miles from the parking lot to the lockhouse. There is no kitchen inside and no running water, so keep that in mind when planning dinner. We can all relax, perhaps play some games, and check out the lockhouse. Closer to nightfall we will go on a short 3-mile hike to Swains Lock where we can enjoy a nice view of the sunset. We will then hike 3 miles back in the dark to the lockhouse and perhaps play games or enjoy a fire before bed. The next morning everyone is on their own for breakfast. Keep in mind that we need to clean up and be out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM. The maximum capacity of the lockhouse is eight people. Depending on who signs up it may be necessary to rearrange the provided trundle beds or bring sleeping pads so we can spread out and make sure everyone has a comfortable sleeping arrangement. You can learn more about the lockhouse [here](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/). Since this is a rustic lockhouse, I will only need $10 from each participant to cover the cost of the reservation. I accept PayPal, Venmo, and cash. :) I'm looking forward to this relaxing trip. Please let me know if you have any questions. **Saturday Itinerary:** * 11:00 AM: Meet at the trailhead, start hiking. * 3:00 PM: Check into the lockhouse, get set up, eat, play games, etc. * 6:00 PM: Hike to Swains Lock, enjoy the sunset, hike back. * 9:00 PM: Potentially enjoy a fire or simply go to bed. **Sunday Itinerary:** * Everyone can get up whenever they want to, keeping in mind that we need to clean up and check out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM. **LIABILITY NOTICE:** Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​ For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).​ If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost).​ See you on the trail! **[Featured Image Source](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/)**

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy the weather! We meet Saturdays at 10am, halfway between the Reston *Container Store* and *Not Your Average Joes* (by the metal benches), leaving no later than 10:05. Every week, rain or shine, we start by walking along the Green Trail to reach Lake Anne Community Center. Once there, we pause for water/bio (often staying a few minutes extra from April-November, due to the local Farmer's Market), and then we circle Lake Anne and head back to our starting point. It's roughly 3-4 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to *Not Your Average Joes* or another local restaurant for a quick drink/meal before tackling the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels. Dogs are welcome, and we recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll walk rain or shine. Also, feel free to bring a friend! By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.

Join the Spooky Beaver Trail Crew maintaining 37 miles of hiking paths in historic Prince William Forest Park (PWFP), Triangle, VA , a unit of the National Park Service (NPS). We will be rebuilding a foot bridge and doing vegetation control activities along the trails in the park. Wear hiking shoes, long pants and dress for the weather; bring day pack, water (at least two quarts but more if hot weather), bug spray, trail lunch, safety glasses, work gloves, and any medications that might be needed (inhaler, epi pen, etc.). All tools and equipment provided. Meet at the Turkey Run Education Center (TREC) parking lot by 9:00 am. We typically work until 2:30 pm, but you can leave as you like. Be sure to check meetup on Friday Aug. 8. If inclement weather is predicted the event may be canceled.

PET EXPO HAS CHANGED LOCATION TO MANASSAS SO I NEED TO FIND ANOTHER DATE FOR THIS. Please note park charges admission but meetup itself is free. I highly recommend folks invest in a NPS annual pass as it will pay for itself quickly. We will be exploring the Virginia side of the Great Falls National Park. Please meet at the visitor's center promptly at 9 am. Dogs must follow NPS rules (be kept on a leash and be 4 months/fully vaccinated). We will depart after the group picture along the ramp to the visitor center. This will be a gentle slow walk to take in views.

Questions/lost? Call 240-447-4796 Meeting location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/rwx3S73EvHw8gX2A9 6.3mi Length 410ft Elevation gain 2–2.5hr Estimated time Loop Experience a tranquil escape along the Georgetown Loop, a scenic route that winds through the heart of one of Washington, D.C.’s most historic neighborhoods. This trail is a local favorite for its shaded, quiet streets and river views. As you head out, you'll find yourself wandering through Georgetown Waterfront Park, a beautiful green space that was once a busy industrial area. The wide, paved paths make it an easy choice for a relaxing afternoon stroll or a casual bike ride.

Questions/lost? Call 240-447-4796 Meeting location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/NMF8mkAu3tuWe7V66 https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maryland/seneca-creek-greenway-to-clopper-lake-loop 5.7mi Length 318ft Elevation gain Loop This popular trail in Seneca Creek State Park travels around Clopper Lake. Mountain bikers, runners, and dogwalkers share this trail, which is a great way to get out in nature. The park has lots of wildlife to spot, including deer, turtles, cardinals, and snakes. Parking is available along the road near the trailhead. There is additional parking around the lake, as well as restrooms.

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. This is a 5 mile hike with 550' elevation gain on various trails in Great Falls Park Virginia. Maneuvering on some rocks is required. We hike at a pace of 2.5-3.0 mph when moving. Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 (C) [Rating: D](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/) Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Meet: We will start at the Great Falls Park parking lot. 38.998198, -77.255878 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/m5LGdmjqFtLfEUAfA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/m5LGdmjqFtLfEUAfA) Park Entry Fee: $20.00 or free with a park pass. AllTrails Map for hike: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/great-falls-park-5-miles-c0e9053?u=i&sh=7cs7ov](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/great-falls-park-5-miles-c0e9053?u=i&sh=7cs7ov)

It's a little early for the Wearing of the Green, because the trees and grass are still brown. But you can wear green! The trails in Great Falls National Park, Virginia, offer spectacular views of the Potomac Gorge and Difficult Run--especially now before the vegetation fills out. This hike will be a repeat of January 4th, 4.6 miles at a leisurely pace. We will start on the Old Carriage Road and winding Swamp Trail. Then onto the Ridge and Difficult Run Trails, including hills and a detour to a waterfall. Return ralong the Ridge trail and more difficult River Trail, which has short but steep hills; steps; mini-rock scrambles; and clifftop overlooks. We will pause at several overlooks and finish at the overlooks of Great Falls. Bring; hiking boots (no smooth-soled shoes), water, and snacks for a rest stop halfway through the hike. Start time: Meet at 10:30 and start walking at 10:45. Pace: average 2.0 mph (faster on the early flat section, slower on the later rocky section) AllTrails map: We will mostly follow the AllTrails "River, Ridge, CCT, and Swamp Trails" in reverse: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/great-falls-loop-river-ridge-cct-and-swamp-trails Custom Alltrails map: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/custom-route-382bf19?p=-1&sh=fuqxr6&utm_medium=map_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality Meeting point: Meet at 10:30 am for sign-ins and introductions, at the bottom of the ramp to the Visitor Center (the entrance facing the parking lot). Street address is 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102. Allow extra drive time for construction delays on Georgetown Pike and George Washington Parkway. Meeting place coordinates: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kAY7ou858TqCAJeK7?g_st=ipc Park entrance fee: NO CASH ACCEPTED. $20 per car or $35 annually. Free with a National Park pass. Carpools can be arranged by using the Meetup Comments section. (Hike leader can take 1-2 passengers from Eastern Market or Rosslyn metro station if willing to go early.) Facilities: The park has restrooms and a snack bar located "under" the Visitor Center. Contact Information: Please use the Meetup Comments for routine comments and questions. Hike leaders are Amber 703-231-5978 and Peter 703-999-9435. However, there is NO cell service in the park, so hike leaders will not get last-minute messages. RSVP: Sign-up ends at 6:00 pm the night before. Please do not show up unregistered. If you can't make the hike, please cancel your RSVP by 6 pm the night before to allow others on the waiting list to join. To find out more about PATC, see www.patc.net Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, see www.patc.net/membership

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. This is an enjoyable hike with shaded trails and a sandy beach to take our break on. The hike is \~7,3 miles with \~800 feet of elevation gain in Seneca Regional Park. We'll start by hiking through a beautiful full growth hardwood forest and will then connect to the Potomac Heritage Trail. We'll take our break on a sandy beach. Thanks to Bob G for the photo. We hike at a pace of 2.3 to 2.5 mph while moving. *You must have experience with hikes of this length and elevation gain.* Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy) Leader: Steve Frith cell 703-629-0174 Park Entry Fee: $0.00 Map for hike: https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=15.0/-77.3190/39.0474&pubLink=obOQ48o079O4P48KYoJBIMa9&trackId=b81b5829-efdf-4bad-bb66-9e9de4a74efd

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. This is an 8 mile hike in Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, with 1000’ elevation gain including about 2.5 miles of bushwhacking. We will begin at the Harpers Ferry train station. We will hike a loop thru town and then across the Potomac River on the Goodlow Bryon Memorial footbridge. Taking a left we will hike a couple of miles along the C&O canal before beginning the bushwhack to explore prominent sites including a hand-dug iron pit, various structures and up a road that hauled supplies to a Civil War fort (Fort Duncan). Long pants and tick spray recommended. We hike at a pace of 2.5-3.0 mph when moving. ***Bushwhacking involves walking off trail with potential obstacles such as downed trees, brush, sticker bushes, rocks, mud, stream crossings and steep uphills and downhills. Only RSVP if you are up for this adventure.*** Due to the nature of bushwhacks attendance will be limited. [Rating: B](https://nvhc.com/hikeinfo/ratings/) Leader: Ed Brimberg 703-944-9920 (C) Carpools: Arrive at the One Loudoun Park and Ride at 7:45am, carpools leave at 8:00am GPS Coordinates: 39.054674, -77.459302, [https://maps.app.goo.gl/dyK5ptbQGR7hAMV59](https://maps.app.goo.gl/dyK5ptbQGR7hAMV59) . Suggested carpool fee is $4. ***The leader will be at the carpool location.*** Driving time to the trailhead from the carpool location \~1 hour. If you are going to the trailhead, meet at the Harpers Ferry Train Station at 9:00am hike starts at 9:15am, GPS coordinates: 39.324540, -77.731047 [https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7](https://goo.gl/maps/yLmDLB9cx44Bkr4z7) Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Parking Fee at Train Station: $20 (The only way to pay is scan the QR code on your phone) or free with National Park pass. If you have a pass please display it with signature side up on your vehicle's dashboard, where it can clearly be seen through the windshield. No dogs are permitted on this hike. AllTrails Map: [https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/harper-s-ferry-bushwack-60bb806?u=i](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/harper-s-ferry-bushwack-60bb806?u=i) \*\*\*\*You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain. \*\*\*\*