“Named by long-boatmen,” they said, but what made Difficult Run so difficult? This 15.9-mile stream earned its name from the Patowmack Company era. Boatmen found the Potomac’s sharp bends near its mouth treacherous.
Difficult Run is a tributary stream of the Potomac River. It flows through Northern Virginia. The stream stretches almost 16 miles. It winds through Fairfax County before meeting the Potomac. This happens roughly two miles south of Great Falls.
Today we stand at Difficult Run. It’s more than just a stream. It is part of a 57.7-square-mile drainage basin. This watershed sits in north-central Fairfax County.
Look around. The area is popular for outdoor activities. People hike, bike, fish, and climb here. Bird watching is also a favorite. The stream’s rapids add excitement. They range from Class III to V.
Difficult Run flows through Great Falls Park. Here, it becomes a miniature Mather Gorge with small waterfalls. The stream picks up speed. It runs through a steep gorge. Finally, it drains into the Potomac.
See those forests? They host diverse wildlife. Deer, fox, snakes, and beavers live here. Lucky visitors might spot a bald eagle. Even luckier ones could see a coyote or a black bear. Young males often wander through in spring and summer.
Notice the trails. They offer miles of exploration. These trails intersect throughout the area. It’s impossible to cover it all at once. However, one classic route stands out. It’s a ten-mile out-and-back trail. This offers a great introduction to the park.
If you are arriving by car. Finding a parking spot can be difficult. The Difficult Run Parking Lot has about 30 spaces. It’s popular with dog walkers and hikers. If full, Great Falls Park is a half-mile up Georgetown Pike. It has hundreds of spots but charges a fee.
Now, face the stream and head left or south. Follow the twisting Difficult Run Trail. It meanders under Georgetown Pike for a quarter mile. Watch your step. It’s rocky. Soon, the trail widens into a dirt path.
About a half mile in, a swimming hole appears on your right. Consider a cool-off here after your run. For now, continue to a decision point, less than a mile ahead. The Ridge Trail goes uphill to the left. Take it later. First, explore the short out-and-back to where Difficult Run meets the Potomac.
Retrace your steps and tackle the hill. You’ll be breathless at the top but rewarded. The view of the river is great. Keep the Potomac on your right. Follow the rolling trail north toward Great Falls. Various side trails intersect along the way. The path is easy to follow. After about 2.5 miles, the trail ends at Old Carriage Road. Turn right and head north. Restrooms and a water fountain are ahead on your right.
Nearby, south of here, great side trails await. They won’t add much mileage. One leads to Matildaville ruins. This town was chartered in 1790. It housed workers building the Patowmack Canal. Only a few stone structures remain. Still, it’s an interesting piece of history.
After the historical placards, retrace your steps. Then, visit one of the three Great Falls overlooks. Have a quick look. Continue north along the river. The River Trail becomes the Potomac Heritage Trail. Just keep following the river.
Just before the dam, navigate a rock field. Climb a short rock scramble. The trails ahead are some of the park’s best. Mid to late April is magical. Virginia Bluebells bloom in abundance then.
After nearly 5 miles, you’ll reach Riverbend Park. Another chance for restrooms and drinks awaits. Explore more if you have time and energy. The Potomac Heritage Trail goes on for miles. Some trails run perpendicular to the river. They offer a nice change of scenery.
Finally, as you return, recall that swimming hole. Chuck Moser, a local runner, considers it a must. “It’s like a cold whirlpool,” he says. “It feels great on the legs.”
As you leave, remember the history and beauty of Difficult Run. It’s a place of natural wonder and historical significance. Its trails offer adventure and stunning views.