Bike Trails

Fairfax County offers over 500 miles of trail (shared use paths) ranging in width from six feet to the newer ten feet standard. The majority of trails are asphalt paved but some are stone dust or natural surface. While the stone dust and natural surface trails are adequate for mountain or hybrid bicyclists, they could present problems to the road bicyclist.

A map showing the existing trails is available on the Trails and Sidewalk Committee web site at: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/nmtc/maps.html

Some smart advice…Always carry personal identification. Our Fire and Rescue personnel have told us of situations on the trail involving serious injury where the victim had no personal identification. It makes sense to carry ID.

Trail Etiquette

Trails are for a multitude of users and not limited to bicycles. When using the trails, please ride responsibly, be polite, and follow the rules.

• Share the trail. Respect others.
• Walkers and runners have the right-of-way over bicyclists and skaters.
• Obey traffic signs and signals
• Cross roads only at designated crossings
• Do not speed
• Stay to the right of the center line.
• Faster users pass on left.
• Announce your passing either verbally or with a device such as a bell.
• Always keep maximum distance from others when passing.
• It’s not advisable to use headphones but if you do, keep the volume low enough in order to hear around you
• Do not block the trail when stopped. Move to the side.
• Be alert to potential obstacles and hazards such as debris, gates, potholes, other trail users, etc.
• Do not disturb vegetation or wildlife.

 

Information compiled from the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Authority.