Hi All- For the January Hike we will stay a bit close to home. This hike is around 3 miles (just under), but if you want to take an extended hike there is an option of about 5 miles. The 5 miles is nice, but does involve going over a road barrier and along a busy road for about 100 feet.

The path is all natural, ie muddy if it has rained, so please wear appropriate shoes. Also note for those hiking with dogs and small children, the water is Rock Creek parks has been noted to be potentially hazardous to drink, if your child or dog comes into contact ensure to wash their paws/hands well. (You should be ok, our dog went and he was fine). Also note that Montgomery County requires masks when social distance protocols cannot be applied, please bring masks and wear them when encountering other hikers.

Remember its a good exercise to look at the trail map ahead of time, and print one out as well. This serves as a great exercise for your Scout to learn to read trail maps and follow the trailheads.

This hike is a mashup of multiple trails, so you can really do any combination you want, this path turns around when the natural path hits a paved road. If you want to do the longer hike its the second link. The trail heads are well marked, and trees are marked in light blue for the Lakeside Trail.

Starting point is Meadowside Nature Center https://www.google.com/maps/place/Meadowside+Nature+Center/@39.1123369,-77.1066841,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xdf5bf0df4b68aa9!8m2!3d39.1123369!4d-77.1066841.

Shorter Hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/mon-04-jan-2021-14-50-1c63926?u=i

Longer Hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/maryland/lake-bernard-frank-lakeside-loop
Attendance Log: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1910JcexYkDuJDJc0ZZCmtV4SUVHz08-5RIho4FLt4qY/edit#gid=0
Remember:
- Leave no trace
- Stay on the path
- Do not run, be careful with leaves on the ground
- Social distancing and masks; check the county/state rules
- Be prepared for any weather
- Bring water and a snack.
- Enjoy the outdoors and Have Fun!!!

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Pack 478 Hiking Committee