Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
where it becomes Grant Road. Turn right onto Ridge Road, left onto Glover Road, and
then left into the nature center. GPS: N38 57.561' / W77 03.103'
The Hike
The area that is now Rock Creek Park was inhabited for centuries by Native Americans, most recently
the Nacotchtank tribe in the 1500s and 1600s. It is believed that Captain John Smith explored parts of
Rock Creek on his ventures up the Potomac River. In the 1700s and 1800s, mills were built along the
creek to harvest water power to mill grain and lumber. These mills were phased out after steam power
proved more efficient.
The main road through the park is called Beach Drive, which could be confusing to some as there
are no beaches in the park. The road was named for Lansing Beach, the director of the construction of
the road.
From the nature center, walk south down a hill to the horse center, which is clearly marked. Walk
around the wooden fences and bear left on the trail. When you come to picnic area 22, follow the trail
along the creek and the rapids. Cross over Rapids Bridge and follow the Valley Trail (blue blazes) to
the right. Mountain laurel grows along the side of the trail here. Walk down to Boulder Bridge. The
best view is from the north side, before you cross the bridge, so have your cameras ready.
After crossing Boulder Bridge, take the smaller trail on the right up the hill to connect with the
Western Ridge Trail (green blazes). Cross the Equitation Field, part of the horse center, and then hike
back into the woods. Look for Virginia pines on this portion of the hike, before returning to the trail-
head at the nature center and parking lot.
