About
Length2 mi
ShapeLoop
DifficultyEasy
Typical time1 hr
TrailheadRapids Bridge
ParkingRapids Bridge overlooks rocky rapids that designate a geologic fall zone within the park. The bridge connects a bridle trail to Beach Drive and the Valley Trail on the other side of the road.
SurfaceRocky
Best seasonVisibility is increased in the late autumn and winter months when leaves have fallen, opening the landscape to deeper view sheds and better viewing of the creek. Trails are not cleared of snow and...
DogsLeashed / limited stretches
AccessibilityRapids Bridge Hike uses the wide bridle trail known as the White Horse Trail for it's initial descent. This trail is 6-8 feet wide and is relatively smooth and free of obstructions. The trail continues along the edge of the creek to Rapids Bridge, which is roughly four feet wide and sixty feet across. The trail that returns to the nature center can narrow in width to four feet and is steep and can have hazards, such as exposed roots and rocks. For an accessible alternative, visit...
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🌊 River or creek🐴 Horses

For your convenience this hike is blazed in bright orange tape wrapped around sign posts. Exit left or walk south/back through the parking lot toward the Horse Center. Take a sharp left into the Horse Center and keep left. Walk past the small parking lot. Look for the dirt trail to the left of the corral fence. This is the beginning of the White Horse Trail . Hike to the creek. Take a right just before the bridge that crosses Rock Creek. Heading downstream, listen to the fast-flowing water-i.e., rapids. This is the fall zone, a geologic transition zone where the Piedmont Plateau (harder rock) meets the Atlantic Coastal Plain (softer, sedimentary rock). After 3/5-mile, you will see Rapids Bridge. Be sure and enjoy the view from the footbridge. Do not cross Rapids Bridge. Continue hiking 165-feet south. Take the unmarked trail to the right uphill. In mile, at the trail fork, keep right and go under the bridge. In mile, the dirt trail comes to a fork at the horse center. Take the trail to the right to rejoin the bridle trail you started on. Turn left and return through the Horse Center parking area to the Nature Center. The horse center barn, stables and paddocks are off limits. Please do not enter the facilities or try to pet the horses.

Tips
Rock Creek Park is only open from sunrise to sunset. Pets are allowed on trails within Rock Creek Park but must adhere to the B.A.R.K. Ranger Principles. Dogs must always be on a leash within the park. Waste must be carried out and disposed of in trash receptacles. For more information on B.A.R.K. Ranger visit the Pets section of the National Park Service website.
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