LOCATION: Clifton, VA
TRAIL DISTANCE: 3.4 Miles
TRAIL HEAD/ DIRECTIONS: YATES FORD ROAD
TRAIL TYPE: Loop
TRAIL GRADE:   Moderate (2)
TRAIL PARKING: 10-20 spaces 
KEY WORDS: Family friendly, Pet friendly

More Northern VA hikes

TRAIL INFO
What's to like about the trail:  Family hike along the banks of the Bull Run. Find everything from areas to skip rocks, to snakes and salamanders.
Why go for a hike on this trail:: Its quick and easy, local to the dc area and oh yeah there is a winery across the trailhead.
Best time to go for a hike on this trail:  Spring & Fall

SUMMARY:
A quiet stroll along the banks of bull run, the trail is woven with rocks, roots under a dense forest canopy. Start your trek (blue mark) at the Hemlock Overlook sign and proceed directly straight ahead and walk down the gulley  until the trail veers left. The trail will pick up speed as its descends down to a small creek and then roars back up to the hill line. The trail is well managed and easy to traverse, it can get muddy during wetter periods. The trail will reach the stream area, perfect for a breather or to note the natural formations of the rocks along the banks. From here go right and hang with the trail for a few good miles of single track trails. The stream side trail is built on roots, rocks, and narrow areas. For the little ones, be mindful of your footing. the trail has pockets to step aside onto the banks of the stream (great for rock skipping) and explore what was once a hydro electric dam. The trail then heads upward at a quick lung burning clip ( but know it is a quick ascent) and plateaus at the outdoor adventure camp. The trail is a fun excursion for the family with an easy to navigate trail, fun spots to explore the stream and all within a hiccup of Washington DC.

Important note: Be sure to check out the town to Clifton for good eats and ice cream!
 
HIKE ON!

GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS

• Water bottle
  
• Light snacks
  
• Bug Spray
  
• ​Sneakers / Trail Runners

LOCAL

• WINERY
• NEARBY HIKES

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WINERY AT BULL RUN