Begin this hike along the towpath of the historic Cheasapeake and Ohio Canal, completed in 1850 after 22 years of work and mishap, and operated for 73 years between Georgetown and Cumberland, MD. The blue-blazed Billy Goat Trial turns toward the Potomac River at Widewater (a natural wide basin where the barges were able to pass) and leads backwards in history 180 million years to the time when the palisades of the Potomac were first forming. The trail skirts the edge of Bear Island, passing giant potholes as it follows along the top of the cliffs of Mather Gorge. This portion of the hike is quite rugged and necessitates a good bit of rock scrambling. The blue blazed painted on the rocks help to locate the route. The return trip is an easy stroll along the towpath. Although this hike is only 4 miles in length, it may be rather slow going on the rocks - and the view will invite you to stay awhile.

Bring plenty of water and any food/snacks you may want.  The terrain is quite rocky in places so decent shoes are a safety must.

Meet at my place at 8:30 am to carpool over to Potomac.  The address is 2001 15th Street N, located 2 blocks from the court house metro stop on the orange line.  Alternatively, meet at the southern Billy Goat Trail section A trailhead (the one closest to Angler's Inn) at 9:30 am.

Driving directions to Great Falls: From I495: Take the first exit from I495 on the Maryland side of the American Legion (Cabin John) bridge. Follow the ramp to the Clara Barton Parkway westbound towards Carderock. Take the Parkway to its end and turn left onto MacArthur Blvd. The first stop sign will be Brickyard Road. Continue straight until the road starts to turn to the right.  Park at the free area across from Angler's Inn, or if desiring to go to the main Great Falls parking lot remain on MacArthur Blvd, turning left at its intersection with Falls Road and continue to the end of the road. There is an entrance fee of $5.00 to enter the main Great Falls parking lot.