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Key Chain loop


Highlights:

C&O Canal, Key and Chain bridges, Potomac Heritage Trail, Potomac River views
Near:Mc Lean, VA
Scenery:
Distance:9.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:100 ft
Hike Time:4 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:OK, but a few difficult spots
HikeType:Loop


Summary:  Some begin the loop by hiking North from the parking lot and crossing the Key Bridge. I like to head south first, following the ramp up and across the Roosevelt Bridge. Walk behind the Kenedy Center, and past Watergate to Thompson's Boat House. Here's where you'll find Mile 0 for the C&O Canal. Continue from there up and across the Rock Creek bridge to the C&O Canal trail in Georgetown. Follow the trail for 4.2 miles to the Chain Bridge. Cross the Chain bridge, and nest small bridge. Potomac Heritage Trail is immediately on your right. You'll turn and go under the bridge heading south. Follow the blue blazes carefully. During times of flooding the parts of the trail may be under water. It's not too difficult to remain up the bank a bit and meander along until the trail rises back up to meet you. Follow along back to the Theodore Roosevelt parking lot.
Trailhead: 395 N to exit 10C. Follow George Washington Parkway pas the Pentagon, and exits for Key Bridge. Parking for Theodore Roosevelt Island is on your left, and only accesible from the northbound side of the highway. (Lat:38.8955 Lon:-77.0661)
Trail Guides for Key Chain loop:
Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs,
Ranger Contact: National Park Service 703-289-2500
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joe Cross, who has posted  56 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by TS on 8/11/2004
A pleasant hike close in to city but giving you stretches at time to truly feel in country. Many walkers on warm days in some sections. Especially enjoyed discovering Lockhouse 8 in Cabin John run by Poomac Conservancy, www.potomac.org, offering a look into history of canal lock keeper.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Virginia Hiking, Virginia Trails, Virginia Hikes, Fairfax County Hiking, Fairfax County Trails, Fairfax County Hikes

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