The 66 Parallel Trail runs for approximately 20 miles from Centrevillle to Dunn Loring generally on the north side of I-66. The following information is meant to help users access the trail, navigate gaps and prepare for conditions along the way. For orientation purposes, directions below are generally given west to east.
There are more than a dozen locations to access the 66 Parallel Trail, connecting neighborhoods, parks, retail and transit centers, with additional, smaller spurs connecting even more communities along the route.
Connections from the Route 28/I-66 interchange in Centreville, including Braddock Road, Walney Road and Route 29 (follow the signs to Route 28 South)
The Parallel Trail generally was built next to the highway by VDOT with the I-66 Express Lanes. You can experience engineering and design feats (especially tunnels, switchbacks, and nature) and at the interchanges of I-66 and US 50 and I-66 and Route 123. However, there are points where the trail veers away from the highway:
For the recreational rider, the 66 Parallel Trail opens up many new options to navigate through Fairfax County without a car. The new 10’ path guarantees a very smooth and comfortable ride, with minimal bumps through the tunnels. There are notable changes in elevation when the path goes above the highway, as well as at the end of the trail in Centreville and up to Gallows Road in Dunn Loring.
The trail is separated by 4’ concrete jersey walls when it is at the same elevation as the highway. At certain points the trail will dip behind the sound barrier, but at road level, you can see, hear and feel the Interstate traffic going by as you are riding. There are definitely less stressful trails available in Northern Virginia for more recreational use. But if you are seeking an east-west route, interesting views and scenery, the 66 Parallel Trail might be the option for you.
If you don’t have a bike, there are Capital Bikeshare Stations at the Vienna and Dunn Loring Metrorail Stations, giving travelers another way to complete their journey without using a car.
From the end of the 66 Parallel Trail, bikers can connect to the W&OD Trail via Gallows Road to continue their journey into Arlington, and find further connections into DC.
Expansion of the trail west into Prince William County is the goal, but is dependent on funding from that jurisdiction.
For further information about the Transform 66 Outside the Beltway project, please visit VDOT's project details page, which includes details about design and plans, noise walls, descriptions of each section of the project, other nearby trail projects and an interactive map that will help provide background information.
Please submit requests for trail maintenance (litter and potholes) to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) via their online customer portal at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov/ or call 1-800-367-7623 (1-800-FOR-ROAD).
For non-maintenance requests or inquiries regarding the 66 Parallel Trail, contact the Fairfax County Department of Transportation Active Transportation Team.
