First loop: We’ll hike at a moderate pace for about 3-1/2 miles, on rocky trails up and down the rolling hills. The trails are likely to be muddy or icy depending on weather. Good hiking boots are a must. This loop is rated "A-B."Where:
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Trail Map
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We will begin our hike accompanied by a National Park Service Interpreter who will play his harmonica as he guides us on our visit to the site of the old Maryland Mine! We'll stop frequently to learn about the history of the area and the people who lived and worked here. With the help of our guide, we will try to spot some signs of the many activities that took place there long ago. From the mine we will continue on our own through the forest and back to the parking area. The second loop will begin with a hike along the C&O tow-path, guided by a long-time C&O Volunteer. She will point out features and explain how they relate to the canal and its history, and then lead us along the Berma Road back to the parking area.
Please note that there is a $5.00 entrance fee for the park.
Note: dogs are not allowed at the Overlook so if you arrive early please do not take your dogs past the sign prohibiting dogs. Thanks!
This hike will start later than our usual start time. For the exact time to meet at the trailhead, contact one of the hike organizers.
This hike will be limited to 12 people plus dogs.
This hike will consist of two loops, for a total of about 8 miles. Expect to find many people, including children, and other dogs on the trails! Rating for the entire hike is “D.” For more information on the rating system, click here.
First loop: We’ll hike at a moderate pace for about 3-1/2 miles, on rocky trails up and down the rolling hills. The trails are likely to be muddy or icy depending on weather. Good hiking boots are a must. This loop is rated "A-B."
Second loop:
We will continue at a moderate pace for another 4-5 miles. Hiking along the canal we will find many dogs, bicycles, people of all ages including children in strollers and elderly people with walkers. Our dogs must be under excellent control! This loop is rated “B.”
Together with the first loop it is rated "D".
For more information on the Great Falls, MD section of the C&O Canal, click here.
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As usual, come prepared to hike. This means appropriate footwear, a hat, and sufficient water for you and your dog (a quart for each of you). Since this trail is rocky in parts, good hiking shoes are a must. Be prepared for changeable weather. It's probably best to dress in layers, so you can stay comfortable. Bring lunch for you and snacks for you and your dog.
Be sure to also bring your $5.00 entrance fee for the park.
Basically the main rules we have are that dogs need to stay on leash and under control, and that you scoop your poop. Please bring a 6-8' standard leash for your dog. With a large group, flexible leads can allow people and dogs to trip or tangle, resulting in rope burns or injuries.
We'll be hiking rain, snow or sunshine unless there is severe or dangerous weather. If the weather is too hot, too cold or too wet for you on the day of the hike, don't be afraid to sit this one out. We want you to have fun! We have planned other hikes, so if you don't think you'll enjoy yourself this time, just wait for the next hike. If you've registered and find you need to cancel, please let us know as soon as possible. We frequently have a number of people on our waitlist, and we want to give everyone a chance to sign up if they can.
From the DC Beltway:
From I-495, take exit #41 “Carderock/Great Falls, MD.” Follow the Clara Barton Pkwy. toward Carderock. You will pass the Naval Surface War Center on your right. At the stop sign, go left on MacArthur Blvd. Continue past Old Angler’s Inn on your right to the entrance to the park. As you approach the park property, you want to go straight while the road turns sharply to the right—look for the sign!
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Click Image for interactive "Map Quest" map |
To register for the hike and to get the details on meeting location and time, or for anything else about this hike or the hiking club in general, please contact Pat Fuhrer or Jeff Bolognese