3-6 Hours
Hike Algonkian Regional Park to Difficult Run
Great Falls Park
This hike is mostly wooded; some parts are rocky and some can be rocky. But you will see, in some places, exceptional displays of bluebells in spring and colors in autumn. Management partners include Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services; Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority; The Nature Conservancy; Fairfax County Park Authority; and National Park Service, all are aided by volunteers with the Potomac Heritage Trail Association and others.
Beginning at the Algonkian Regional Park boat launch/landing area, this 10-mile hike is part of the developing network or trails along the Potomac in Northern Vriginia. For those stitching together a non-motorized traverse of the PHT, one can reserve a cabin at Algonkian (two-night minimum) and visit the snack bar at the clubhouse. On the way to the Difficult Run trailhead--an intersection with the Fairfax Cross-County Trail--you pass through a golf course; alongside the Seneca Bypass Canal; Riverbend Park, which includes a visitor center; and Great Falls Park, which includes the remnants of the Powtomack Canal, a visitor center, overlooks, and snack bar (in season).
Tags
Front-Country HikingBirdsTortoises and TurtlesDeciduous ForestsGeologyRiver and RiparianScenic ViewsTrailsCanalsPotomac Heritage National Scenic TrailPiedmonthikingWater FallsPotomac GorgePotomac RiverNorthern Virginia
Visitor Photos
No visitor photos yet
Details
Duration
3-6 Hours
Duration Details
Depending on abilitiy, interests and time spent at points of interest.
Fees Apply
No
Seasons
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Accessibility
The trail switches from paved, to gravel, to dirt and may include tripping hazards.
Pets
Yes — On a leash.
Reservations
No
Location
Algonkian Regional Park - Difficult Run VA