Table of Contents
Park Information
Billy Goat C Trail Map
C&O Canal National Historical Park Home Page
Address
C&O National Historical Park
11710 MacArthur Blvd.
Potomac, MD 20854
Hours
8am – Sunset
Entrance Fee
Free – Billy Goat C Trail
The Park headquarters is located at 11710 MacArthur Blvd. Potomac, MD 20854. There no entrance fee to the entrance of the Billy Goat C Trail (Entrance before entering the park) and it is managed by the National Park Service. To reach the Billy Goat C Trail, take the Carderock exit off the Clara Barton Parkway, make a left and wind into the park. At the stop sign, make a right and head to the back parking lot. You’ll find the trail West on the tow path not too far down from the parking lot.
This was my Christmas day hike as the weather was in the 50s and it was sunny. Couldn’t have imagined a better day for a hike. I’ve already hiked the Billy Goat A Trail and I’m going to post a review on the Billy Goat B Trail after Saturday. From what I’ve researched, they follow along the Potomac River and include rock scrambles. The C trail had a couple of really nice ones but nothing that would prevent a beginner from attempting.
It took me about 1 1/2 hours to hike the 3.46 mile loop that included the C&O tow path. Essentially, you start right on the trail that winds its way next to the Potomac River. The trail itself is only 1.7 miles but at the end, it curves North onto the tow path and from there you walk back to your car.
The Billy Goat C Trail included great views of the river, a few rock scrambles, an area with a small waterfall and hilly parts on the trail. I really liked the fact I could get that kind of exercise in such short time.
Along the trail, I came across a family that was helping a woman who had to be in her 80’s hike it. I couldn’t believe it. It was a great sight. I wanted to cheer her on as she was doing really well.
Billy Goat C Trail Hiking Suggestions
- Bring a bottle or two of water (Seasonal)
- Wear good hiking shoes, boots or tennis shoes
- A camera (Great views of the river)
This is a really good hike that most people can do. There are some wonderful views of the river and some rock scrambling as well. The Billy Goat C Trail seemed to have a lot in a less than 4 mile hike.
Christopher
