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Cruise this flat, paved path with the kids and impart some nature factoids aided by 4 good brochures


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Map Key

1.9

Miles

3.1

KM

Out and Back

72' 22 m

High

54' 16 m

Low

19' 6 m

Up

19' 6 m

Down

0%

Avg Grade (0°)

1%

Max Grade (0°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek · Wildlife

Family Friendly Four different brochures available for kids help them discover animals, birds, plants and other cool bits of nature they might otherwise miss. Clues, pictures and riddles keep it fun.

Overview

Visitors will cross bridges, read informative exhibit panels and see the historic Peirce Mill.

Description

The TRACK trail is part of the Rock Creek Park Loop between Porter Street and Broad Branch Road. This part of the loop was designated the TRACK Trail and designed to help introduce children to nature and exercise. Almost completely flat, this wooded path parallels Rock Creek. Be sure to pick up one of the four brochures at the trailhead to enhance your learning experience.

History & Background

Be sure to take some time to stop and explore the historic Peirce Mill along the way. This mill was built in 1829 to mill corn, wheat, and rye. The mill operated from 1829 to 1897 and was restored by the National Park Service starting in 1933. Access to the mill is free and depending on the time of year, you may get to see a milling demonstration while visiting the historic site.

Contacts

Shared By:

Megan W

Trail Ratings

  3.5 from 4 votes

#4764

Overall
  3.5 from 4 votes
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#4,764

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Photos

Western Ridge Trail Moderate (upper). Some trunk-jumping and semi-steep descent/ascents.
Mar 23, 2019 near Washington, DC
Western Ridge Trail southern fork for Moderate (upper), Strenuous (lower). Suggest taking Strenuous north since it's easier to climb the Strenuous trail rockface than crab-walk it down. Return loop via the Moderate Trail.
Mar 23, 2019 near Washington, DC
Westen Ridge Northern Entrance (at Pierce Mill) for either Strenuous (lower) or Moderate (upper). Best to take Moderate south and come back Strenuous. Easier to climb Strenuous rockface than crab-walk down.
Mar 23, 2019 near Washington, DC
Peirce Mill
Apr 22, 2016 near Washington, DC
Hedgehog Woodrush.
Mar 8, 2016 near Washington, DC

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