Trailhead Hike: Prince William Forest Park, VA

Park Map / Trailhead hike, no bus

We'll meet at the parking lot for the Visitor's Center. This is near, but not right in front of the visitor's center. Coming in from the park entrance, it's the second left off of Park Entrance Rd. The following GPS point will get you there via Google Maps: 38°33'33.6"N 77°20'54.7"W

$5. Long hike: 11½ mi., 1400 ft. ascent. Moderate hike: 8½ mi., 1000 ft. ascent.

Prince William Forest Park serves as the largest example of Eastern Piedmont forest in the National Park System. And its 37 miles of trails offer plenty of opportunity to explore it. We will first head west, then north, on the South Valley Trail. At the Oak Ridge Trail, moderate hikers veer off and follow it east to a parking area on the park’s Scenic Drive. Long hikers add a circuit on the High Meadows Trail, then follow the moderate hikers’ route.

***

COVID PRECAUTIONS
All participants should be fully vaccinated for COVID-19. Anyone experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory illness should not attend the event.

***

RESERVATIONS
Capital Hiking Club is a non-profit group, and the public is invited on all trips. Reservations are accepted as late as Friday, but reserving before Wednesday night helps ensure your spot and prevent cancellation of the hike due to low sign-ups. RSVP through Meetup and pay through PayPal. Please be sure your RSVP gives your full name and phone number and where you'll be boarding the bus. We don't want to leave you behind!

FIRST-TIME HIKERS
If you're a first-time hiker with us, please notify the leaders in advance so they can make sure you have the info you need. Hikers must be able to keep at least a 2 mph pace.

LIABILITY
By RSVP'ing for a CHC hike, you acknowledge and accept that hikers are responsible for their own safety and must assume risks and liability for all outings. CHC leaders, officers, and representatives shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any trips or club activities. Participants will be asked to sign a waiver the day of the hike.

CANCELLATION POLICY
To cancel and receive a full refund less a $5 processing fee, you must change your RSVP to "No" on Meetup before 12PM the Thursday before the hike. If you change your RSVP after 12PM the Thursday before the hike, no refunds will be issued.

MORE DETAILS -- SEE THE FAQS ON OUR WEBSITE