Venturing North of the Visitor's Center

Friends and Fitness Enthusiasts,

I must admit, I have not spent nearly enough time in the northern region of Great Falls. There's no good reason for it as it offers more of the same scenic views of untouched forestry.

For a nice, secluded 4.5mi moderately challenging run/hike, begin at the VC. As you go up the main road, you'll pass an overflow parking lot to your right and Clay Pond on your left (0.3mi). Hang to the left and go up the gravel road. This is a serious hill, folks. It's long and it's pretty steep; nice to get it out of the way first because the rest is pretty flat. Once that plateaus, head on down until you get to Riverbend Park's Visitor Center (1.5mi). Once you hit it, come on back and turn right down Mine Run Trail. This is reminiscent of Swamp Trail because it's a more heavily wooded area with a sometimes narrow path (0.4mi). Mine Run will lead you back where you started near Clay Pond while skipping that crazy hill.

If you want to take the scenic road back to the VC, cut across the parking lot to Patowmack Canal Road. Check out the canal ruins and listen for the river babbling along. You'll probably see lots of baby frogs too so watch your step!

In health,
Lauren