You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I Accept" to be permitted on the hike.
5.6 mile loop with a 685 ft. elevation gain that makes the hike the equivalent to a bit over 7 miles. (400ft gain = 1 mile)
*This hike is limited to 20 participants per park regulations.*
(Over 20 hikers= $130 permit required)
THERE IS PLENTY OF PARKING at NATURE CENTER
Description: [Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)[ ](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)is truly a gem in our nation's capital. This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park.
It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals.
Military Road divides the park into North and South.
This hike starts from the [Rock Creek Park Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm) and heads east and then south following the creek to the [Valley Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm), the [Rock Creek Trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-trail-rock-creek-valley-trail) and finally to the [Western Ridge Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)
through [Pierce Mill](https://www.nps.gov/places/peirce-mill.htm) and then back to the [Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm).
Pace: pace is about 2.-2.5 mph while moving.
Bring: adequate water/hydration, also snack/lunch, insect repellant and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas, tree roots.
Dogs: Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the [NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy).
Weather: weather in this location is [HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/4977d84136752e007d09245dc605351849a561f839bb8c7d002ae55470e11441).
Meetup Location: we will meet in the parking lot of the [Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)
5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015
NOTE: THERE IS PLENTY OF PARKING
GPS Coordinates: 38°57'34.1"N 77°03'05.6"W.
[LINK](https://maps.app.goo.gl/TyjHWMHpevqTW1Fr8?g_st=im)
Please arrive by 9:00 am to get signed in in time to start the hike at 9:30 am.
Rock Creek Park
[Map of Hike](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-trail-rock-creek-valley-trail)
[Hiking in Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm)
[Map of Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)
Questions: message me here or text to 703 533 9231 Dawn
