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Bear Island Loop via Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail and Billy Goat Trail Section A

The Bear Island Loop, accessed via the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail and Billy Goat Trail Section A, offers a combination of scenic beauty and challenging terrain. The route starts along the C&O Canal Towpath, where hikers are treated to tranquil water views and glimpses of the surrounding forest. As the trail progresses alongside the Potomac River, hikers are introduced to the rocky terrain of Billy Goat Trail Section A, which includes exhilarating rock scrambles, a challenging cliff ascent, and panoramic views over Mather Gorge. This section is rugged, with some sections requiring careful footing, making it ideal for experienced hikers looking for both physical challenge and natural beauty. #Hiking #River #Loop #Forest #Nature #Rock

  • Distance: 6.4 Km
  • Elevation gain: 90 m
  • Maximum elevation: 56 m
  • Elevation loss: 89 m
  • Minimum elevation: 21 m
  • Moving time: 2 h 42 s
  • Moving speed: 3.2 Km/h
  • Maximum speed: 7.3 Km/h
  • Total time: 2 h 7 m
  • Global speed: 3.0 Km/h

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About this trail

Name: Bear Island Loop via Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail and Billy Goat Trail Section A trail, distance, elevation, map, profile, GPS track

Start: MacArthur Boulevard, Cropley, Potomac, Montgomery County, Maryland, 22102, United States (38.98264 -77.22729)

End: MacArthur Boulevard, Cropley, Potomac, Montgomery County, Maryland, 22102, United States (38.98266 -77.22725)

Coordinates: 38.97957 -77.24713 38.99355 -77.22723

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Great Falls Overlook, Billy Goat Trail, and Chesapeak and Ohio Canal Trail Loop

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Great Falls Overlook, Billy Goat and Canal Trails

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Great Falls Overlook via Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail

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The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail offers a delightful mix of historical and natural features, making it an appealing hike for those in the Potomac area. The trail leads to an exceptional vantage point, where hikers can witness the dramatic Great Falls, where the Potomac River drops over 60 feet, creating a…

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Bear Island Loop via Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail and Billy Goat Trail

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The Bear Island Loop offers hikers a dynamic mix of terrain with scenic views of the Potomac River. Along the route, you'll encounter sections of peaceful canal pathways, rugged rock scrambles, and sweeping vistas of Mather Gorge. The trail's natural beauty is complemented by opportunities for exploration,…

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Great Falls Overlook and Bear Isand Loop via Billy Goat Trail and Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail

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This loop hike offers a diverse experience, combining the rugged adventure of the Billy Goat Trail with the peaceful ambiance of the C&O Canal Trail. The Billy Goat Trail (Section A) is particularly notable for its rock scrambles and dramatic views of the Potomac River and Mather Gorge, providing a thrilling,…

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