Discover the Natural Beauty of Carderock
Explore Carderock: A stunning hiking area along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, perfect for outdoor adventures and peaceful retreats in nature.
Nestled along the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, Carderock offers breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The expansive recreational area invites tourists to explore its scenic hiking trails, lush landscapes, and tranquil waters, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to escape into nature.
A brief summary to Carderock
- Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, Potomac, Maryland, 20854, US
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-7:30 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-7:30 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-7:30 pm
- Thursday 6 am-7:30 pm
- Friday 6 am-7:30 pm
- Saturday 6 am-7:30 pm
- Sunday 6 am-7:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful hiking experience and to catch the sunrise over the Potomac River.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as some trails can be lengthy and may not have facilities nearby.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure optimal hiking conditions.
- Look for local wildlife, including various bird species and other animals native to the area.
- Plan to visit during the fall for stunning autumn foliage that transforms the landscape into a colorful spectacle.
Getting There
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Car
From the Billy Goat Trail parking area, head north on MacArthur Blvd. for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Clara Barton Parkway, and follow it for about 2 miles. Take the exit for Carderock Recreation Area. Follow the signs to the parking lot. There is no parking fee, and you can park your car in the designated areas.
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Public Transportation
From the nearest metro station (Glenmont), take the Red Line towards Shady Grove. Disembark at the Rockville station. From there, catch the Ride On Bus (Route 47) towards the Glen Echo Park. Get off at the Carderock Recreation Area stop. The bus fare is approximately $1.00 (exact change required). Once you disembark, follow the signs to the entrance of Carderock.
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Biking
If you are biking from the Billy Goat Trail, continue on the C&O Canal Towpath. Head southwest along the canal for about 1 mile until you reach the Carderock Recreation Area entrance. This route is scenic and flat, making it a pleasant ride.
Discover more about Carderock
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Burling Cabin Site
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Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
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Great Falls Parking(BillyGoat)
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Maryland Gold Mine National Historic Landmark
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Clara Barton National Historic Site
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Historic Pleasant Grove
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Bethesda Historical Society
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C&O Canal Lock 6
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Bethesda List Center, Inc.
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Maizon Bethesda
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The Brody
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Unmissable attractions to see
Billy Goat Trail Section C
0.1 km
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Victory Island Overlook
0.1 km
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Carderock Climbing Area & BGT-C Parking
0.7 km
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Billy Goat Trail Section C, West End
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Scott’s Run Nature Preserve
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Marsden Footbridge
1.6 km
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Billy Goat Trail Section B West End Trailhead
2.6 km
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앵글러스 인
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Great falls, side parking
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Angler's Footbridge
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Woodland Trail View
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Billy Goat Trail Section A East End Trailhead
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C&O Canal Lock 8
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EZ Bridge
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Turtle Rock
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Essential places to dine
CAVA
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CherCher Ethiopian Cuisine
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Guardado's Restaurant
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Mamma Lucia
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Tia Queta Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Billy Goat Trail
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Tysons Galleria
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Pam K. Bambini Children’s Boutique
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The Shops at Sumner Place
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Urban Outfitters
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Tommy Joe's
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Hip Flask Rooftop Bar
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