Tips for Biking to Work

Hundreds of Fairfax County commuters bike to work every day. It’s not uncommon for a commute by bike to exceeded a distance of 20 miles one way. For most, the commute is much shorter. Bicycling is a healthy, clean, economical and fun way to get to work. To get started:

• Lay out a bike-friendly route
• Try a practice run to see how long it takes
• Try biking one day a week to start
• Find co-workers or friends to commute with

If you need help in finding a route, contact your local bicycle club or bike shop, most are more than willing to assist you. 

Remember, when sharing the road, make sure you wear high visibility clothing and abide by the motor vehicle laws of the Commonwealth. At night, wear reflective clothing or accessories, use a headlight and taillight and always wear a helmet.

Plan Your Route

Resources are available to help you plan your commute by bicycle, taking into account distance, time, terrain and multi-modal options.

• Fairfax County Bicycle Map
• Fairfax County Sidewalk & Trails Map
• Fairfax County Park AuthorityTrail Buddy
• Capital Trails Network
• Arlington County Bike Map
• City of Alexandria Bike Map
• City of Falls Church Bike Routes
• Town of Herndon Walking and Bicycling
• Virginia Bike Map
• Fairfax County Major Equestrian/Nature Trails
• Google

Key Bicycle Connections

• Huntington Metrorail Station <> D.C. via Mount Vernon Trail
• Braddock Road Metrorail Station <> Pentagon via Crystal City
• Huntington Metrorail Station <> Braddock Road Metrorail Station

Bike Racks on Fairfax Connector Buses

The Fairfax Connector bus fleet has bicycle racks that riders can use for free. Each bus has been equipped with a front-mounted rack capable of carrying two bicycles. Instructions on how to use the bike racks are available on the Fairfax Connector web pages. An instructional DVD and brochure have been produced and are available at the Connector Stores.

What about other transportation systems, can I take my bike on Metrobus, Metrorail or VRE?

All Metro buses are equipped with bicycle racks similar to those mounted on Fairfax Connector buses. There is no additional cost and there are no restrictions. For detailed information see the Bicyclists on Metrorail web page.

Metrorail recently changed their rules allowing bikes on trains, but asks riders to use good judgment when riding. For detailed information see the Bring Your Bike on Metrorail web page. 

The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) now allows bicycles but there are restrictions. For detailed information about using your bike on VRE trains, consult the VRE On-Board Policies web page.

Other Bicycling Options

If you are looking to bike-and-ride, bicycle racks are available, free-of-charge, on a first-come, first-served basis at most park and ride lots within the county. Bike parking options, including bike lockers, are available to rent through FCDOT, VDOT and WMATA at selected transit facilities. FCDOT offers secure bike room storage at the Wiehle-Reston East Metro station and Stringfellow Park and Ride. 

Commuters in Tysons, Reston, Merrifield and West Falls Church can also use Capital Bikeshare:

• System Map
• Pricing and Membership Information