Address: 11710 Macarthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854, USA
Phone: +13017673714
Sunday: 7AM–7PM
Monday: 7AM–7PM
Tuesday: 7AM–7PM
Wednesday: 7AM–7PM
Thursday: 7AM–7PM
Friday: 7AM–7PM
Saturday: 7AM–7PM
Greg Knee
Section A of the Billy Goat Trail is and has been one of my favorites in the region. It can get crowded because I am not the only one to think so of this stretch along the Potomac River so I recommend trying it early or during off times during the week. If you are able to visit during the off times you may have a better chance of spotting some of the wildlife as well as enjoying the views.
Buff Maniscalco
A very challenging hike not for the faint of heart. There is quite a lot of rock scappering required. The views are amazing and the diversity of flora and fauna is stunning.
Katie
My favorite accessible trail the DC/VA area. 3 different Sections which are trail that branch off of a main towpath that’s fairly short. The towpath is flat, so great for a leisure walk, biking, or running. The sections vary in difficulty and length. If you’re looking for a challenge, Section A is for you. There are a couple rock scrambles and a rock wall you’ll have to scale up. There also aren’t any shortage of views, whether you’re on the towpath or one of the trails! The weekends get really busy, so if you can, try to go on a weekday. Be sure to check their website before you go to make sure the section you want to do isn’t closed.
Nathan Lapin
What an exhilarating experience! Now I know why they call this the billy goat trail haha
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I like parking at the parking lot with the snack bar: 11710 Macarthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854 It's a 1.5 mile walk to the start of the trailhead using this lot. But is close to the falls observation areas
Yes, the trail will be closed until the flood level of the Potomac falls below 5 ft. You can check trail closures here https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
12 years old would be fine. There's one semi-steep part, but as long as you're careful there, they'd be fine. Probably wouldn't bring kids under ~8 though.
I'm a volunteer for the park as a Billy Goat Trail Steward. Dogs are permitted in Sections B and C of the trail, but not Section A. Dogs are prohibited on Section A not just because the trail poses a danger to them (very rocky, including a 40ft tall traverse) but because of the danger they pose to the trail - it is a very environmentally unique area, home to more than 100 rare plant and animal species that ONLY live on that island. When you visit, please be considerate and stay on the marked trails. More than 100,000 people hike Section A annually, if everyone wandered freely we wouldn't have such a lovely place to appreciate. Enjoy your hike!
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