Potomac Heritage Trail

Running along the Virginia shoreline of the Potomac River, the Potomac Heritage Trail offers peaceful hiking opportunities with breath-taking views of nature. This 10 mile trail is part of the larger Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.

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Trail Watch

Gulf Branch Trail is closed due to a rock slide that occured near the intersection with the Potomac Heritage Trail.

The area is experiencing heavy rainfall over an extended period of time. Be prepared for flooding on the trail or flooding of the tributaries crossing the trail. Use caution and do not attempt to cross a flooded area. Please provide updates to 703-289-2500.

 

Things to Do

Ranger Programs

There are currently no scheduled ranger programs at Turkey Run Park. To request a ranger program for a group, please call 703-289-2553.

Hiking

Aside from the ten miles of hiking along the Potomac River, there are many connecting hiking trails to the Potomac Heritage Trail.

• Mount Vernon Trail
• Theodore Roosevelt Island trails
• Windy Run Trail (closed)
• Donaldson Run Trail
• Gulf Branch Trail (closed)
• Chain Bridge to the C&O Canal Towpath
• Turkey Run Park trails
• Langley Fork Trail 

Please use caution and bring appropriate clothing and supplies as trails can be steep, muddy, or flooded.

Turkey Run Park Trail Map

Potomac Heritage Trail Map

Birding

The Potomac Heritage Trail offers connections to birding locations, such as Turkey Run Park and Theodore Roosevelt Island. Over 230 species of birds have been documented in the local area.

Viewing Plants & Wildflowers

Springtime is an ideal time to see wildflowers in bloom along the trail, including the famous carpets of Virginia bluebells in Turkey Run Park. The autumn is a popular time to hike the trail to observe the rich colors of the leaves as they change.

 

Plan Your Visit

Hours & Seasons

The trail is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Portions of the trail may be closed at short notice if flooding or other obstacles block the trail.

Directions

The Potomac Heritage Trail has multiple access points from its southern tip at Theodore Roosevelt Island and its northern tip just north of I-495. (The Beltway). Some access points may require a longer walk from your car than others.

• Theodore Roosevelt Island
• Windy Run Trail (closed)
• Donaldson Run Trail (hike in)
• Gulf Branch Trail (closed)
• North Glebe Road at VA-123
• Fort Marcy
• Crest Lane
• Turkey Run Park (hike in)
• Langley Forks Park (hike in)
• Live Oak Drive (Street Parking Only)

Picnic areas are available along the trail at Fort Marcy and Turkey Run Park. Restroom facilities are open seasonally at Theodore Roosevelt Island and Turkey Run Park.

Rules and Regulations

For parkwide rules, please view the Park Compendium. Rules regarding the Potomac Heritage Trail include:

• Removing or damaging natural or cultural resources is prohibited
• Bicycles are prohibited
• Pets must be on a least no longer than 6 feet at all times
• Commercial and organized group activities on the Potomac Heritage Trail require a permit obtained from the National Park Service