Do I need a permit to hike Billy Goat Trail from Chesapeake & Ohio National Historic Park?

No, Billy Goat Trail from Chesapeake & Ohio National Historic Park does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Billy Goat Trail from Chesapeake & Ohio National Historic Park?

Billy Goat Trail from Chesapeake & Ohio National Historic Park is rated difficult. It is 7.8 miles long with 971 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Maryland trail conditions

Billy Goat Trail from Chesapeake & Ohio National Historic Park

DifficultLoop

Maryland

Billy Goat Trail from Chesapeake & Ohio National Historic Park

Potomac, Maryland

7.8 mi

Distance

971 ft

Elev. Gain

2h 45m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The Billy Goat Trail is protected by the National Park Service. The park was established in 1961 by President Eisenhower to preserve the neglected remains of the Ohio Canal and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. There is a $10 entrance fee to access the trails.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:25 ft

Max:50 ft

296 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.