| NOTE: Trail detours are now in place due to the Woodrow Wilson Bridge (I-95) replacement project |
Trail follows Potomac River between DC and Mt Vernon |
Located just across the river from Downtown Washington D.C. is a great multi-use recreation trail. Nearly 18 miles long, the Mount Vernon Trail follows the Potomac's Virginia shoreline from Theodore Roosevelt Island (near Rossyln, Va) to George Washington's Estate located at Mount Vernon.
The trail surface is paved. Since this is one of the oldest trails in the area, it is not up to current design standards. In some spots, the trail is narrow and winding. However, a number a recent improvements have been completed including resurfacing and widening. Additionally, two new overpasses have been installed over National Airport's access ramps. Some of the bridge crossings are very narrow, so you may want to dismount your bike when encountering these tight spots. On nice weekends, expect a high traffic volume.
The Mount Vernon Trail is a big favorite of area cyclists. The trail offers wonderful views of the Potomac and DC monuments. There are also several neat sights along the way, including George Washington's home at Mount Vernon, Olde Town Alexandria, Arlington National Cemetery, and the local's favorite Gravelly Point (at the north end of National Airport's main runway).
The trail is some what tricky to follow as it passes through Alexandria because there are actually two route choices, both of which are on street. The original route followed Pitt Street through town. The newer "river route" has since become the preferred choice. (refer to detailed map). It follows Union Street, which provides easy access the the waterfront parks and restaurants in the Old Town Center (around King Street). Note that the river route can be easily missed, so I suggest you review the detailed map of the old town area.
For the most part, the trail is fairly flat with an occasional rolling hill here and there. However the last mile heading toward Mount Vernon has a pretty good climb. Once you reach the northern end at Roosevelt Island, you can either turn around and head back south, or you can cross the footbridge over the parkway and head west on the Custis Trail. This will take you to the W&OD Trail, a 45 mile long rail trail through Northern Virginia.