Take a Hike! @ Rock Creek Park

Join us for a fun and social hike at Rock Creek Park as we explore the "Southern Loop," starting from the Nature Center.

Starting at the Nature Center, the "Southern Loop via Western Ridge Trail, Rock Creek, and Valley Trail" is a well-loved route. With over 2,700 glowing reviews on AllTrails, it offers beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and a refreshing escape close to the city.

This easy hike winds through lush forested trails, showcasing the beauty of Rock Creek Park in late fall. While the trail is mostly straightforward, please note that fallen leaves this time of year can make sections slippery, so wear sturdy, grippy shoes. Some parts may be rocky or narrow, but the views and camaraderie make it worth it!

To learn more about the trail, click the link in the Trail Map section below.

Get ready for fresh air, great conversations, and plenty of scenic moments! This hike is perfect for all levels, so bring your good vibes and let’s hit the trail together!

Meeting Time & Location:
Meet us at 9:30 AM at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center, located at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015. There’s plenty of parking available at the Nature Center. We’ll gather right in front of the building to start the hike.

Distance: 5.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 685 feet

Difficulty: Level 2 Moderate Walk/Hike
This hike is a moderate walk with natural trails and a few gentle inclines to get your heart rate up. The terrain includes some uneven sections, and the fallen leaves can make it a bit slippery in spots. With sturdy footwear, it’s an enjoyable and accessible hike for most levels.

Estimated Duration
This hike is expected to take approximately 2.5 hours.

Pace: Moderate Pace
We'll walk 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
Ample parking is available at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center, with additional overflow parking located across the street.

Trail Map (AllTrails)
Southern Loop via Western Ridge Trail, Rock Creek, Valley Trail
With over 2,700 reviews on AllTrails, this popular route offers insights into the trail’s conditions and highlights. Click the link above to learn more and prepare for your hike!

Dogs on the Trail
While we love our four-legged friends, this hike is not suitable for dogs. The narrow trails and uneven terrain could pose safety challenges for both pets and hikers. We appreciate your understanding!

Restrooms
Restrooms are available at the Nature Center, our meeting point at the start of the hike. They open at 9:00 AM. Additionally, there are restrooms approximately 30 minutes into the hike, where we’ll take a brief break.

Lunch After the Hike
Following the hike, we’ll head to the Cactus Cantina at 3300 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016 for a relaxed and casual lunch. This is a great opportunity to unwind, enjoy good food, and connect with fellow hikers in a laid-back setting. Whether you’re new to the group or a regular, everyone is welcome to join in and make the most of our time together.