Kephart Bridge Landing
A serene, hidden gem where Goose Creek meets the Potomac, offering peaceful trails and water access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Kephart Bridge Landing
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, hidden gem where Goose Creek meets the Potomac, offering peaceful trails and water access.
"Truly a hidden gem for a peaceful trail or just a calm walk completely in nature."
🎯 Entrance is Tricky!
Entrance is in a residential area, easy to miss. Look for signs!
🅿️ Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Free street parking available uphill.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Confluence of Creeks
Where Goose Creek meets the Potomac River
Witness the serene meeting point of Goose Creek and the mighty Potomac River. A peaceful natural spectacle.
Riverside Trails
Along the Potomac River
Enjoy a well-cleared, flat trail offering lovely views and a tranquil escape into nature.
Water Recreation Access
Goose Creek and Potomac River access points
Launch kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes for a refreshing day on the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Entrance
Trail Conditions & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Entrance is Tricky!
Entrance is in a residential area, easy to miss. Look for signs!
🅿️ Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Free street parking available uphill.
👟 Trail Variety
Main trail is flat, but side paths to water can be rugged. Wear appropriate shoes.
🛶 Water Levels Vary
Check water levels before kayaking/canoeing, can be low.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Entrance is Tricky!
Entrance is in a residential area, easy to miss. Look for signs!
🅿️ Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Free street parking available uphill.
👟 Trail Variety
Main trail is flat, but side paths to water can be rugged. Wear appropriate shoes.
🛶 Water Levels Vary
Check water levels before kayaking/canoeing, can be low.
🐶 Dog-Friendly
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kephart Bridge Landing is praised as a hidden gem offering a peaceful natural escape with well-maintained trails leading to the Potomac River. Visitors appreciate the serene atmosphere, water access for recreation, and suitability for families and dog walkers. Some find the entrance and limited parking a bit challenging to navigate.
"This is truly a hidden gem for a peaceful trail or just a calm walk completely in nature.
At first, we were a bit confused since the entrance looked like it was part of a private residential area, but don’t worry. - it’s open for everyone.
Once inside, it was totally worth it. The trail is beautiful, with a lovely river flowing alongside. We even saw a few people bringing their kayaks , paddle-boards and enjoying in the water. It felt very serene and not crowded at all.
There’s decent parking space available too, which was a big plus.
Overall, a very refreshing spot - definitely recommend visiting!"
Gaurav Sahil Rodrigues
"Very well cleared, marked, and flat trail along the Potomac, on the Virginia side. Beware that once at the Basil Newman Park, the trail is markedly more rugged.
Easy access and welcome parking. Fairly wide in lots of places. Great for families."
Michael LePuil
"Nice entry to the park for walking trails or getting onto Goose Creek with kayak or canoe and from there onto the Potomac. Sometimes the water level is too low and it's hard to navigate. Parking lot has space for "
Bill Wright
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The entrance is located within a residential neighborhood and can be tricky to spot. Look for signs carefully as you drive through the housing development.
Yes, there is a parking lot, but it is quite limited. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends. Free street parking is also available at the top of the hill.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Kephart Bridge Landing due to its residential location. Driving is the most convenient method.
Navigate to the residential area where Kephart Bridge Landing is situated. The entrance is often described as being 'in between houses.'
The main trail is flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for casual cycling. However, more rugged paths may be challenging for some bikes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kephart Bridge Landing is a public access point and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to visit.
As a public park area, Kephart Bridge Landing generally follows daylight hours. It's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
There is no admission fee to enter Kephart Bridge Landing. It's a free public park.
Parking cannot be reserved at Kephart Bridge Landing. It is first-come, first-served, and can fill up quickly.
The main restriction is to respect the residential surroundings and adhere to park rules. It's open to the public for recreational use.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
There's a well-cleared, flat trail that leads to the Potomac River. Further exploration can lead to more rugged terrain, especially when trying to get closer to the water.
Yes, the main flat trail is great for families and hiking with kids. The natural setting provides an enjoyable experience.
Yes, Kephart Bridge Landing is a nice area for fishing along the creek bank.
You might spot waterfowl like cranes and cormorants, especially if you head towards the river.
It's generally not crowded, offering a serene and peaceful experience, especially on weekdays.
🎫 🛶 Water Activities
Yes, Kephart Bridge Landing provides access for launching kayaks and canoes onto Goose Creek, which leads to the Potomac River.
Paddleboarding is possible, especially when water levels are adequate. The confluence of the creeks offers a scenic backdrop.
There are no boat rentals available directly at Kephart Bridge Landing. You'll need to bring your own watercraft.
You can reach the Potomac River by following Goose Creek. The trail takes about 15 minutes of casual walking to get down to the Potomac.
Water levels can fluctuate, sometimes making navigation difficult for kayaks and canoes. It's advisable to check conditions beforehand.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's also a good place for families interested in water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, provided you bring your own equipment and check water levels. The serene environment offers a refreshing escape without the overwhelming crowds often found at larger parks. Remember to pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited.
🐶 Dog Owners
The well-cleared trails provide ample space for dogs to walk, and the proximity to water sources can be a bonus on warmer days. Just ensure your dog is on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to help maintain the cleanliness of this natural area.
🎣 Anglers
While specific fish species aren't detailed, the natural setting suggests a chance to catch local freshwater fish. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before you go.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, venturing off the main path can lead to more rugged terrain, particularly when aiming to get closer to the water's edge. These less-developed areas can be trickier to navigate but offer a more immersive natural experience. Keep an eye out for waterfowl; the area is known for sightings of cranes and cormorants.
It's important to note that while the main trail is forgiving, the paths closer to the creek and river can become muddy or uneven, especially after rain. Always wear appropriate footwear, and be mindful of your surroundings if you decide to explore beyond the primary path.
Water Recreation Opportunities
Paddleboarders also find this area appealing, especially during times of favorable water levels. The serene environment provides a beautiful backdrop for a day on the water. However, visitors should be aware that water levels can vary, sometimes making it challenging to navigate certain sections. Checking local conditions before your trip is a good idea.
While Kephart Bridge Landing is an excellent access point, there are no boat rentals available on-site. Visitors planning to engage in water activities should bring their own kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards. The experience is about enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility of the rivers and creeks.
Navigating the Entrance and Parking
Once you locate the entrance, you'll find a parking lot. However, this lot is known to be limited in size. On busy days, especially weekends, it can fill up quickly. To ensure you get a spot, arriving early in the morning is highly recommended. For those who arrive when the main lot is full, there is an alternative: free street parking is available at the top of the hill.
This unique entrance and parking situation contribute to the 'hidden gem' feel of Kephart Bridge Landing. While it might require a little extra effort to find and park, many visitors find the peaceful natural setting to be well worth the minor inconvenience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit