- Let’s Take a Hike! Difficult Run to Great Falls ParkCross County Trail Access Point, Herndon, VA
Get ready to Take a Hike! Join us for a beautiful 5-mile Sunday adventure along the Difficult Run Stream, leading right to the stunning views of Great Falls Park! We’ll be hiking an out-and-back route with a loop in the park, featuring easy terrain, one simple water crossing, and no rock scrambling or steep climbs. There are a couple of mild inclines to get your heart pumping—but don’t worry! We’ll pause at the top to regroup, hydrate, and catch our breath.
This trail is packed with sights: enjoy picturesque views along Difficult Run Stream and breathtaking overlooks of the Potomac River from up high. We’ll even come across a picnic table at the top of one incline, the perfect spot to rest, take in the view, and soak up some good vibes!
Afterward, join us for an optional lunch at Old Brogue Irish Pub to relax and unwind after our hike.
Meeting Time & Location
Meet at 9:30 AM at Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd). If you're running a bit late, you can catch up with us at the Difficult Run parking lot off Georgetown Pike - we’ll pass through about 30 minutes into the hike.Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 289 feet
Difficulty: Level 2 Moderate Walk/Hike
Slightly challenging, suitable for basic fitness levels. Mostly smooth terrain with minor inclines, covering 3-5 miles and 200-500 feet elevation gain. Small obstacles; best for those comfortable hiking an hour or more.Pace: Moderate Pace
A steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment.Parking
Plenty of parking is available. You can park off Route 683 by Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd) (be sure to park head-in, with your car clear of the street). Additional parking is on the shoulder of Kelso Road. The trailhead is at the intersection of Route 683 and Kelso Road, marked with a crosswalk.Trail Map (AllTrails): Take a Hike! (DMV) - Difficult Run to Great Falls Park
Lunch After the Hike
Join us for an optional lunch after the hike at Old Brogue Irish Pub, 760 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066. It’s a perfect way to relax and unwind after our time outdoors! - Hike at Turkey Run – No Turkey, Just Trails!Turkey Run Lot C-1, McLean, VA
Details
Get ready to hit the trails at Turkey Run - no turkeys here, just 4.5 miles of beautiful, varied terrain! This hike is moderately challenging, featuring rocky paths and multiple stream crossings, with a total of 417 feet of elevation gain. Ideal for intermediate hikers, it's a solid pre-Thanksgiving workout to get you moving before the holiday.The trail includes shallow stream crossings and light scrambling, adding some fun technical elements along the way. We’ll take regular breaks to regroup, hydrate, and enjoy the crisp autumn scenery. Hiking shoes are a must - the trail is slippery, and their grip is essential for safety. Regular athletic shoes don’t provide enough traction and will increase the risk of injury. Also, don’t forget your hiking poles; they’ll be helpful on uneven ground and at the stream crossings.
After the hike, join us nearby at the Wild Tomato to unwind and connect before the holiday festivities begin.
Meeting Time & Location:
Meet at 9:30 AM at Turkey Run’s Parking Lot C-1. There’s plenty of space, so come a little early, get your gear ready, and be sure to bring along a “thankful spirit” for this pre-Thanksgiving adventure!Distance: 4.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 4179 feet
Difficulty Level 3: Intermediate Hike
Ideal for moderately fit hikers seeking a physical challenge. Terrain includes rocky, uneven, or narrow paths over distances of 5-8 miles, with 500-1,000 feet of elevation gain. Expect shallow stream crossings, light scrambling, and occasional steep sections, requiring good balance and stability. Suitable for those with solid fitness; not recommended for those uncomfortable on uneven terrain.Pace: Moderate Pace
A steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment.Parking
Park in Turkey Run’s Lot C-1, where there's plenty of room for all. Grab a spot, lace up, and get ready to hit the trail!Trail Map (AllTrails): Take a Hike! (DMV) - Turkey Run
Lunch After the Hike
Afterward, we’ll gather for a casual post-hike lunch at the Wild Tomato (7945 MaCarthur Blvd, Cabin John, MD 20818) to relax, enjoy some social time, and celebrate our outdoor adventure before the Thanksgiving feast.
