PATC Hikes & Events

Blockhouse: A Moderate 8-Mile Hike Near Potomac, MD

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER "NOTES."

Set within the stunning Blockhouse Point Conservation Park—consistently ranked among the best natural areas in the Montgomery County Park system—this hike offers a rich blend of biodiversity and quiet history. As you hike, you’ll trek through mature upland and floodplain forests, passing tranquil streams and unique river-rock outcrops. The area is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and serves as a rare botanical haven, home to at least nine species of threatened or endangered plants. While the park’s rugged terrain once served as a strategic wartime transportation route for supplies, it remains a peaceful retreat today.

The park’s name and historical significance are rooted in the American Civil War, specifically the year 1862. Following the Battle of Antietam, the Union Army constructed a series of blockhouses—sturdy timber fortifications—along the bluffs to defend the vital Potomac River crossings and the C&O Canal from Confederate raids. These outposts were manned by the 19th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, who kept a watchful eye on the supply lines into Washington, D.C. While the site was high-stakes and strategically vital, it is a rare historical gem because it never saw an actual skirmish; the soldiers spent their time on picket duty and reconnaissance rather than combat. Today, eagle-eyed hikers can still find the subtle earthen mounds and remnants of the foundations where these defensive structures once stood, serving as silent monuments to the soldiers who guarded the river.

The hike begins by the C&O Canal Towpath. As you walk along the water’s edge, keep an eye out for sunbathing turtles and elegant Blue Herons while soaking in sweeping views of the Potomac River. The route also offers a glimpse into the region’s industrial past as you pass by the historic Violet’s and Pennyfield Locks. We then climb into the shaded forest, stopping at magnificent vistas along the way. Be sure to pack a lunch or a snack to enjoy at the Blockhouse Overlook, where you can relax and take in one of the most grand perspectives of the river valley below.

Time to Meet: Please meet at 9:4\15 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:30.

Directions to Trailhead:
The GPS Coordinates are 39.240879,-76.749977

The Street address to the park is 12420 Pennyfield Lock Road Tobytown, MD 20854. Pennyfield Lock Road is about 5.5 northwest of Potomac Village on River Road. Turn left onto Pennyfield Lock Road and take it to the very end. We will meet by the Porta-Johns.

Contact Information: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed.

Details
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 8 miles
Elevation Gain: 600 feet
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour

Facilities: Portable bathrooms at the trailhead

Fees: No entrance fees

Cancellation: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.

Winding Trails, a Hidden Garden, and Tranquil Beauty

This event was posted then accidently deleted and is reposted here. If you were on the original list you must re-sign up here.

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER "NOTES."

Just beyond the rush of the beltway lies a natural sanctuary spanning 536 acres, a green expanse with woodland trails and gentle hills. Here, the landscape feels worlds away from the city’s hum.

Our hike leads us along wooded trails through towering trees and across modest elevations, showcasing the quiet beauty of the park. Along the way, we’ll venture into the edge of Brookside Gardens, a 50-acre oasis renowned for its lush plantings and tranquil, shimmering pond. Often celebrated as the “jewel of Montgomery County parks,” these gardens feature vibrant blooms, meandering walkways, and the gentle murmur of water.

Most trails are natural surface, while certain stretches are paved.
Feel free to bring along a lunch—though take care to enjoy it at the trailhead or in Wheatoon Regional proper, as picnicking is not permitted within the Brookside Gardens. Afterwards, you may wish to return to Brookside Gardens, just a short stroll away, where the flora and water offers the perfect end to a day spent in nature.

Please be aware that while a leashed Fido may travel with us through the park, he or she is not permitted in Brookside Gardens. Best to leave Fido at home.

Time to Meet: Please meet at 9:15 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:30

Directions to Trailhead:
The GPS Coordinates are 39.054546, -77.043680
The Street address is 2004 Shorefield Rd · Silver Spring, MD. When you enter the park you come to a circle. Drive around it 3/4 of the way (to make a left turn) and proceed to a large parking lot. Drive to the far end of the lot.

Contact Information: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leaders are Christa; 410.610.6254 Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed.

Details
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 6.2 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 480 ft
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: Toilets can be found near the trailhead and about 4.5 miles into the hike
Fees: No entrance fee

Cancellation: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.

This moderate hike 5.1 mile begins at the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center in Fairfax County, VA. Gather in the front of the complex by Rt 123/Ox Rd in front of the Bunnyman Brewery. Enjoy a combination of paved park paths, quiet woodland trails and Occoquan River views. From the parking lot we will follow the Fairfax Cross-County Trail into the Occoquan Regional Park. In the park we will take a short steep climb to the ridge trail with an overlook of the town of Occoquan. Dropping back to the paved trail we will follow along the river, picnic areas, recreation fields, boat ramp areas of the park until it loops back. From the park ballfield we will follow the wooded blue blazed trail that travels gently up and down wooded hills until it comes back to the park road. After passing the Suffragette Monument the paved trail leads out of the park to the Fairfax County Cross-County Trail we used to enter. We will follow that back to the parking lot where we met. the trail is a mix of paved and natural surface with some rocks and roots, so please wear appropriate footwear.
Please make sure to bring water to drink!
And consider sunscreen and insect repellent.
We will pass restrooms about halfway through the hike.
Time to meet:
Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00
Contact information:
Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions.
The hike leader is Bob 703-731-9983 Call or text if urgent.
Directions to the trailhead:.
The address: 9514 Workhouse Way; Lorton VA 22079.
Gather outside the door of the Bunnyman Brewery.
The GPS coordinates: 38.69858390287775, -77.25593247906221
Elevation Gain: 480 ft.
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour

Billy Goat B and C: a 6-Mile Moderate Hike

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER NOTE

If you’re looking for a great day out at Great Falls (Maryland side), this is a good spot. While Billy Goat Trail A gets all the "fame" for its rock scrambling, Section B and Section C offer a much more serene experience through the Potomac River woods. Billy Goat B has wooded paths interspersed with some small rock hops, rock scrambling, and uneven ground. It is quiet and forested and offers great views of the river. Section C is relaxed. It is mostly flat and sandy. It winds through a lush canopy of trees and follows the shoreline closely. There is one stream crossing. Combined, they offer a great hike.

The hike will begin at parking lot 4 of the Carderock Parking Lot; the most northern lot. We will take our time on this hike to enjoy the river views and spring flowers. Bring a snack to enjoy along the way.

If the restrooms are closed portable toilets are available at the trailhead.

Well-trained dogs are permitted on the Billy Goat trails B and C but must be on a leash at all times.

Bring a lunch or snack that we will have along the way.

The hike will end around 12:30.

Time to Meet:
Please meet at 9:15 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:30

Contact Information:
Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim (202-744-0289). Call or text as needed.

Directions to Trailhead:
It is best to use the GPS coordinates. They will take you directly to the parking lot.

The GPS Coordinates are 38.97637, -77.20534
While there is no street address, you can search for “North Parking, for Carderock Cliffs.” It will take you to the parking lot.

Details
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 6 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 233 feet
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: There is a portable toilet near the trailhead
Fees: no fees

Cancellation:
In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.