This was a fun adventure after racing a half marathon 3 days ago that unfortunately didn't go according to plan. I was in town for a meeting, and noticed this FKT so wanted to give it a shot. There was also one for an all trail loop within Rock Creek Park but unfortunately that trail had a small section closed for the 2 days I'd be in town. Went out to scout the loop the day before and very glad that I did (other than taking a nasty fall on wet wooden stairs and massively bruising my forearm and back--these trails can be slick!) Woke up very early both days to get an early start due to scheduling limitations.
Took an Uber to the starting point at Bluff Bridge (Uber driver seemed very confused why he was dropping me off at that spot so early haha). Unfortunately it was already 76 degrees, 100% humidity, misty, and trail conditions were wet from rain the past few days. Navigation was much smoother today after the scouting trip yesterday. I had the course loaded on my watch so I could watch closely and make sure I was staying on the right track. Pushed the first couple of miles knowing there was some smoother downhill coming up. Also ran into minor issues with traffic, but wasn't too bad in the morning. Managed to stay on my feet the whole time (although I did slip on those same stairs, but fortunately caught myself on the hand rail today!). Came out onto the final 2 flat paved miles at around 46 min, so pushed to finish in 58:54.
Thanks for suggesting this loop--it was a great tour of many of the beautiful parks and trails within DC. Looking forward to seeing who can push this time faster (hopefully in cooler and drier conditions!)