Full Answer
Where is the Billy Goat Trail?
Located southeast of Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center, in Potomac, Maryland; The Billy Goat Trail, one of the busiest trails in the D.C. area, contains three different sections that total eight miles and provide fun and adventure for all ages. Start at the upstream entrance near Great Falls and end downstream near Anglers
Where can I Park to hike the Great Falls Trail?
If you’re hiking Section A, parking at the Great Falls Tavern provides the closest access to the beginning of the trail. If you're hiking Section B, parking is avalaible at the Anglers area downstream from Great Falls. If you’re hiking Section C, Carderock recreational area is the closest parking lot.
Are Dogs Allowed on Billy Goat Trail a?
Dogs on Billy Goat Trail B and C Only, Please. Because of the dangers of Billy Goat Trail A, no dog or pets are allowed. Dogs on a leash are allowed on Sections B and C, but unleashed dogs are illegal in every part of the park.
Is the Billy Goat Trail at Great Falls dangerous?
The Potomac river at Great Falls is completely different - its a fast moving, dangerous river so I was excited to get on the Billy Goat Trail. The trail is marked with blue blazes, so its easy to stay on the path. The first half is mostly just dirt/sandy trail with some rock hopping thrown in.
How do I get to Billy Goat Trail section?
If you're hiking Section A, parking at the Great Falls Tavern provides the closest access. If you're hiking Section B, parking at the Anglers area provides the closest accesss. If you're hiking Section C, parking at the Carderock recreation area provides the closest accesss.
What is the best section of the Billy Goat Trail?
section AThe northernmost, section A, is the most popular and strenuous—and has the best views. To reach it, park at the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center (11710 MacArthur Blvd., Potomac; 301-767-3714; $5 entrance fee), then stroll downstream on the towpath for about a mile to enter the trail on the right.
What section of the Billy Goat Trail is the hardest?
Billy Goat Trail AHow difficult is the Billy Goat Trail? The Billy Goat Trail A is the most difficult, with near-vertical rock scrambling and precarious ledges. The other two sections are far easier, with some moderate scrambling on Billy Goat Trail B and a laid-back walk in the woods on Billy Goat Trail C.
Which is the easiest Billy Goat Trail?
Section CIt has been popular with hikers since the 1800s. Section C, a 1.7 mile loop that returns to the C&O Canal at Mile 10.9, is the easiest of the three sections, although there are still a few rock outcroppings to traverse. The trail offers outstanding views of the Potomac River, and a small waterfall.
Is Billy Goat Trail easy?
Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 15 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.
How hard is billy goat?
This trail is rated difficult for a reason. It is nothing but rocky and slippery. The incline of the traverse is very steep. Bring plenty of water and wear good shoes.
How long does it take to hike billy goat?
about two to two and a half hoursTakes about two to two and a half hours depending upon how fast you want to go or how often you want to stop and take in the views. Lots of places to venture off of the marked path over the rocks to get some solitude and great views. Definitely bring more water than you think you will need, especially in the Summer.
How long is the Bully Goat trail?
4.7 miBilly Goat TrailLength4.7 mi (7.6 km)LocationMontgomery County, Maryland, United StatesTrailheadsC&O Canal Bear IslandUseHiking Trail Running4 more rows
Is the C&O Canal a national park?
Welcome to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park!
How long is Billy Goat Trail Section A?
The 1.7 mile trail turns into a 3.7 mile loop when you return by the more leisurely C&O Canal towpath. Because of its rugged terrain and rock scrambling, this section of the trail carries additional cautions with it. Hikers should allow extra time—2 to 3 hours for the cliff trail, and longer for the return loop.
Can dogs do the Billy Goat Trail?
Pets are not allowed on the Billy Goat Trail section A, or on the boardwalk to Great Falls. Stay on marked trails. Going off trail can damage sensitive plants and cause erosion. Pets are more likely to pick up ticks when off trail.
What is a goat trail?
"Goat track" is golf slang for a poorly maintained (or minimally maintained) golf course. It is mostly used as an insult, but sometimes can be applied affectionately by golfers who aren't put off by rough conditions.
Can dogs do the Billy Goat Trail?
Pets are not allowed on the Billy Goat Trail section A, or on the boardwalk to Great Falls. Stay on marked trails. Going off trail can damage sensitive plants and cause erosion. Pets are more likely to pick up ticks when off trail.
What is a goat trail?
"Goat track" is golf slang for a poorly maintained (or minimally maintained) golf course. It is mostly used as an insult, but sometimes can be applied affectionately by golfers who aren't put off by rough conditions.
Is the C&O Canal a national park?
Welcome to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park!
Where is the Billy Goat Trail?
Billy Goat Trail is a series of trails along the Potomac River on the Maryland side in Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park. As the name suggests, you need to be part mountain goat to hike this trail! There are actually three Billy Goat Trails, but I've only done Section A. This section starts from the towpath at the stop gate between locks 16 and 17, about a mile south of the Great Falls Tavern. The trail heads out onto Bear Island and runs along the rocky cliffs above the Potomac River in Mather Gorge. Initially, the trail is pretty flat and easy, though the entire trail is very rocky. Good hiking boots with ankle support are recommended. As you progress down the gorge, the trail becomes more difficult with lots of climbing and scrambling, up over, around, and under huge rocks and boulders. At one point roughly in the middle, you will have to climb 30 to 40 feet up a cliff. There's a big crack down the middle to give you a foothold and it's not really as hard as it sounds - no ropes or harness required, but not recommended for those with a fear of heights. After the cliff, you'll come down to river level at Purplehorse Beach with great views of the river and gorge. Soon, the trail loops back around and ends at the towpath near Widewater. Although I've never done them, I understand that Sections B and C are much easier. Section A, however, is great fun, albeit somewhat challenging. I would consider it similar to Old Rag in Shenandoah for comparison. If you're in good shape, not afraid of heights, and used to rock scrambling, the Billy Goat Trail is a great adventure, just 15 miles outside Washington, DC.
Where is Billy Goat Trail in Great Falls MD?
The Billy Goat Trail is along the Maryland side of the Potomac River in the Cand O National Park, Great Falls MD, just outside the beltway. We usually park in the park (take MacArthur Blvd to the very end), pay the $5 and then you get bathrooms, easy parking and if you are lucky the grill is open.
Which section of the National Park Service has maps?
Section B and C are much more tame. The National Park Service has the maps and literature on line, Wikipedia has a small blurb also. Just go and have a great time!
How long is the hike to Great Falls?
It’s a 2.1 mile walk (about 45 min.) back south along the tow path to return to the Old Angler’s Inn. Total time for the 5.5 mile circuit hike is 2+ hours plus time spent at the Great Falls park. Hiking shoes & poles recommended.
How long is the Billy Goat Trail?
The Billy Goat Trail is a 4.7-mile (7.6 km) hiking trail that follows a path between the C&O Canal and the Potomac River within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Great Falls in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Where is the tricky spot on the C Trail?
Trail takes the left fork, but because it isn't marked, people often go straight and right off the trail. This is near the downstream end of the trail. Another view of tricky spot. In summer the vegetation can get pretty high. Downstream entrance, near pivot bridge remains on canal.
Where is the C trail in Carderock?
C trail, near upstream end at Canal. One of the approaches to the C trail, from the western parking lot. Part of the C trail in Carderock. Cliffs of Billy Goat C Trail, a favorite spot of rock climbers. Billy Goat C Trail, near the midpoint.
Is there a fee for parking in Carderock?
No fee is charged when parking near Carderock. Dogs are not allowed on Section A, nor on Olmsted Island (Great Falls Overlook), but are permitted on a leash at all times everywhere else in the park. It takes about 2 1/2 hours to do the Section A loop from the parking lot.
How many parking areas are there on the Billy Goat Trail?
There are three different parking areas available to hikers along the Billy Goat Trail, with at least one near each trailhead.
How long is the Billy Goat Trail?
Connecting all three makes for a a strenuous hike of about 8 miles total and takes about 4 to 5 hours.
Can I stay overnight along the Billy Goat Trail?
No. There is a group campground near Section B, but it’s reserved for organized scout or civic groups only. Plan on getting it done in a day.
Is Great Falls open?
The trails and the Great Falls Visitors Center are open year-round. Spring and fall often see trail closures after heavy rains, while winter weather can lead to ice on the trail—not good, given the exposure on the first section. Always check weather and trail conditions before hiking.
Can I bring my dog on the Billy Goat Trail?
Section A is too dangerous for dogs. (Don’t bring small children, either.) On Sections B and C, dogs are allowed but must always be leashed.
What is Billy Goat Trail?
Billy Goat Trail. A Challenging Rock Scramble on the Potomac. By Jisel Penilla. Section A of the Billy Goat Trail is one of the area’s most popular hiking trails, and it’s no surprise why: A challenging rock scramble section, incredible views of Mather Gorge and colorful fall foliage on the Potomac make it a crowd pleaser.
Where to eat after hiking in Virginia?
On the Virginia side of the falls, an upscale dining option is L’Auberge Chez Francois. Those in biking or hiking clothes can check out the adjacent and more casual Jacques Brasserie. If it’s a pint of beer or burger you’re after, you can’t go wrong with The Old Brogue, a cozy spot popular with locals. For a cup of coffee with a side of antique cars, check out Katie’s Coffee Shop.
Where is Billy Goats Trail in Maryland?
Billy Goats trail is on the maryland side of the river and free to visit with much better trails than the Virginia side. If you go to the Virginia side you do get a nice view of the waterfall but it does cost a free to get in unless you are active military. (Make sure to bring a water bottle and good hiking shoes!)
How long is Billy Goat Trail?
Billy Goat Trail Section C is a relatively easy and short trail that takes you up right by the river. It is 1.6 miles long, but you can loop back or take the towpath to make it a full day's adventure. Hiking this section, you'll see dogs, hikers, rockclimbers alike.
What is the most challenging trail in Great Falls?
Beauty and the Beast, LITERALLY! Billygoat Trail A is the most challenging and most popular trail that Great Falls has to offer. Simply stated, it's an adrenaline junkies paradise.
