The Best Biking and Hiking Trails Across All of Northern Virginia

Arlington

Martha Custis Trail

One of Arlington's most traveled cycling corridors, the Martha Custis Trail provides a direct connection between the Washington & Old Dominion Trail and Washington, D.C. Riders encounter rolling terrain, several moderate climbs, and winding sections that offer a more challenging experience than many regional bike paths.

Location: Lee Hwy. & Lynn St., Rosslyn

Alexandria

Alexandria Heritage Trail

History and outdoor recreation come together on this extensive route through Old Town Alexandria. Covering approximately 23 miles, the trail passes numerous historic sites while providing a mostly paved route suitable for both cyclists and walkers. Urban surroundings add variety to the journey, making it ideal for those who enjoy combining sightseeing with exercise.

Location: 1323 Duke St., Alexandria

Fairfax County

Burke Lake Park

A favorite destination for walkers, runners, and cyclists, Burke Lake Park features a scenic loop of nearly five miles surrounding the lake. The relatively level terrain makes it accessible to most fitness levels while offering beautiful water views throughout the route.

Location: 7315 Ox Rd., Fairfax Station

Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail

Stretching roughly 40 miles across Fairfax County, this trail system delivers one of the region's most diverse outdoor experiences. The route winds through forests, stream valleys, and natural landscapes, creating a rugged adventure that changes with the seasons. Trail users should be prepared for mud, rocks, and uneven surfaces in some sections.

Location: Multiple access points throughout Fairfax County

Difficult Run Stream Valley Trail

Connecting Reston with Great Falls, this lengthy trail offers a mix of natural surfaces and narrow paths. The route is suitable for beginner and intermediate cyclists looking for a longer ride through wooded surroundings and stream crossings.

Location: 8801 Georgetown Pike, McLean

Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's forested trails and open meadows. Several paths are available for walking and jogging, while designated routes welcome cyclists seeking a quieter outdoor experience surrounded by local wildlife.

Location: 5040 Walney Rd., Chantilly

Fountainhead Regional Park

Widely recognized as one of Northern Virginia's premier mountain biking destinations, Fountainhead features nearly eight miles of technical singletrack. The challenging terrain attracts experienced riders looking for elevation changes, tight turns, and demanding trail conditions.

Location: 10875 Hampton Rd., Fairfax Station

Great Falls Park

Combining spectacular river views with a variety of trail options, Great Falls Park accommodates everyone from casual walkers to experienced cyclists. Some routes are relatively flat, while others introduce steeper climbs and more demanding terrain.

Location: 9200 Old Dominion Dr., McLean

Lake Accotink Park

This scenic lakeside destination features an easy-to-navigate trail network suitable for jogging, biking, and family outings. Additional connecting paths allow visitors to extend their adventures into nearby park systems.

Location: 7500 Accotink Park Rd., Springfield

Mason Neck State Park

Offering both paved and natural-surface trails, Mason Neck State Park provides options for runners, cyclists, and walkers alike. The park's peaceful setting and abundant wildlife make it a favorite destination for nature lovers.

Location: 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton

Pohick Bay Regional Park

Trail runners seeking a challenge will find plenty of elevation changes and rugged terrain at Pohick Bay. The park's extensive trail network winds through wooded landscapes while offering occasional views of local wildlife.

Location: 6501 Pohick Bay Dr., Lorton

Riverbend Park

Located along the Potomac River, Riverbend Park features approximately ten miles of natural trails shared by hikers, runners, cyclists, and equestrians. The relatively gentle terrain makes it suitable for a broad range of outdoor enthusiasts.

Location: 8700 Potomac Hills St., Great Falls

Fauquier County

Town of Remington Cycling Routes

Remington offers several marked bicycle routes that combine scenic countryside with historic landmarks. Riders can explore Civil War sites, rural landscapes, and picturesque river views while choosing distances that fit their preferred level of challenge.

Location: Various access points throughout Remington

Loudoun County

Franklin Park

Popular among local runners and cross-country athletes, Franklin Park features rolling hills and multi-use perimeter trails. The varied terrain provides an excellent workout while maintaining a peaceful park atmosphere.

Location: 17501 Franklin Park Dr., Purcellville

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Part of a larger trail network stretching hundreds of miles, the Loudoun County section offers a scenic combination of river views, natural landscapes, and outdoor recreation opportunities for walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Location: Multiple access points

Prince William County

Prince William Forest Park

One of the region's largest protected natural areas, Prince William Forest Park offers paved roads, gravel routes, and off-road opportunities for cyclists of all experience levels. Families, recreational riders, and mountain bikers can all find suitable terrain within the park.

Location: 8100 Park Headquarters Rd., Triangle

Regional Favorites

Mount Vernon Trail

Stretching along the Potomac River, the Mount Vernon Trail is among the most iconic multi-use paths in the Washington metropolitan area. The mostly flat route rewards visitors with exceptional views of Alexandria, Arlington, and the Washington skyline.

Location: Multiple access points

Washington & Old Dominion Trail (W&OD)

Running approximately 45 miles through Northern Virginia, the W&OD Trail remains one of the area's most popular routes for biking, jogging, and walking. Built on a former railroad corridor, it connects multiple communities while offering a smooth and accessible riding experience.

Location: Multiple access points throughout Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun Counties

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