Hike the Red Rock Wilderness Overlook Loop
Leesburg, Virginia
Details
Distance
1.2 miles
Elevation Gain
100 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Jenn Gonzalez
A small chunk of wilderness and history in the heart of Leesburg, Virginia.
Red Rock Wilderness Overlook provides 60+ acres of trails to explore right in Leesburg, Virginia. The site is home to some ruins and buildings from the late 1800's and is a wonderful spot for picnics, hiking, trail running, and geocaching.
The preferable loop is to take the trail that leads straight from the parking lot. You'll see the green and white markers on the trees. As you walk down the path you'll eventually come to a turn in the path. Instead of turning right, continue straight on the path and head down to the river. You'll be able to hike to the Potomac River and spend some time along the water. The very tall trees arch themselves towards the water as if reaching for a drink. The ferns spread themselves along the ground almost like carpet. Together they provide beautiful scenery.
After walking along the river you'll come to the rocks that give the wilderness park its name - the red rocks (pictured). Climb up through the downed trees, rocks, and branches and you'll be connected back with the green trail. And here is where you'll find the overlook.
A bench is provided if you'd like to spend some time sitting and enjoying the view. You can then continue on the trail and return back to the parking lot. Once there be sure to read the history about the ice house and other left over buildings that are still on the grounds. The trails are great any time of year and marked well enough that you can even walk them in the winter with snow. Picnic tables are provided if you'd like to eat lunch as well.
You can return many times and try all of the trails available through the park as they all offer something different.
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Hike the Red Rock Wilderness Overlook Loop Reviews
Choose this trail for an evening trail run with the dog. Its a nice spot with some of wildlife (saw a few deer, standard for the area) and although during the summer it can get a little overgrown, I didn't find it to be a big problem. Don't forget to check for ticks afterwards.
5.0
This is the perfect spot to have a picnic! The ruins of the farm were very interesting and the hike to the Potomac was wonderful. We went the long way to view the overlook of the river and some of the path was a little bit overgrown but, it wasn’t very much of a problem. Also, we saw a lot of deer! Highly recommend!!
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Hike along the C&O Canal: Whites Ferry to Edwards Ferry
Hike the Historical Phillips Farm in Waterford
Washington & Old Dominion Trail and Broadlands Ramble
Explore Point of Rocks/ Potomac River Overlook
Hike or Bike the Hoyles Mill Trail
Relax at Aldie Park
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