4-5 miles. Suitable for advanced beginners and intermediate hikers.  A picturesque trail through woodlands, over streams, and passing the remnants of the old Ford Mine.

The mine started around 1890 and was located about 1 mile north of Great Falls. It was one of many gold mines in the area, and miners extracted gold from the quartz veins. Some of the minerals found included gold, electrum (a gold-silver alloy), limonite, magnetite, pyrite, quartz, and tetradymite.

The trail is a good balance of challenge without being too strenuous. There are some stream crossings, and it can get muddy closer to the canal. 

Afterwards, we'll make our way to the Overlook Trail for a view of the Potomac River. Lastly, we'll head to Olmsted Island by traversing a series of bridges and boardwalks to Great Falls Overlook for a closer, most magnificent, view of the falls. 

As with all WWO hikes, there will be a leader and a sweep, and no one will be left behind.

After you complete your registration, you will receive a confirmation email with additional event details and start location.

There is limited space, so please register early. Although this hike is FREE for Premium Members, you do need to register.