Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Laurel Trail Loop
Hiking
5.0
(8)
Running
5.0
(1)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
September 23, 2023
Hiking
January 24, 2024
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Laurel Trail Loop
4.8
(9)
52
hikers
12.5km
03:20
140m
140m
The Potomac Heritage Trail Loop in Prince William Forest Park offers a delightful escape into nature, combining varied terrain with continuous river views. You'll traverse gravel paths, rocky sections, and areas with tree roots, all while enjoying the serene wooded landscape and impressive cliffside vistas. This moderate 7.8-mile (12.5 km) hike, with 456 feet (139 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect way to spend around 3 hours and 20 minutes immersing yourself in the region's natural beauty.
Planning your visit to this section of the Potomac Heritage Trail Loop is straightforward. While specific parking information for this particular trailhead isn't detailed, trailheads within the larger Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail network are generally well-marked. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to ensure a spot, especially during peak hiking seasons. The moderate hiking difficulty makes it accessible for many, but comfortable footwear is a must for the varied surfaces.
Beyond the scenic river views, the trail offers a glimpse into local history and wildlife. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife as you hike, and be sure to visit the Pyrite Mine Overlook, which adds a unique historical element to your journey. This loop is part of the much larger Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, a vast network preserving the natural, historical, and cultural heritage of the Potomac River region, making this a notable route within a significant national trail system.
8
hikers
2.35km
00:38
30m
30m
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.82km
01:18
60m
60m
Details
Informations
Distance 621 m
Downhill 30 m
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Saturday 14 November
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Expect light wind and shifting conditions.
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