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 Reporter |
Summary: First, in the ninteenth century, George Washington's former Mt. Vernon estate became a de facto national shrine. Then, in the 1930's, the federal government created the scenic George Washington Memorial Parkway to carry motor vehicles to Mt. Vernon. Then, in 1973, they added the Mt. Vernon Trail, a paved strip of right-of-way for people who like to locomote by muscle power. Today, the trail attracts hikers, bikers, and other muscle-power users, and serves as a major element in the metro area's growing trail network. Trailhead: From Downtown Washington, DC: take 14th Street Bridge south towards Virginia. Take exit for Mount Vernon/National Airport; this puts you on the George Washington Memorial Parkway southbound; continue past National Airport, through Old Town Alexandria (for two miles, the Parkway becomes Washington Street through Old Town; when, you reach the city limits, you are back on the Parkway). Follow the parkway to Mt. Vernon. Trail head is at the back of the parking lot. (Lat:38.712 Lon:-77.0872) Trail Guides for Mt. Vernon Trail: 60 Hikes within 60 miles of Washington D.C. by Paul Elliott (Menasha Ridge Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Ranger Contact: National Park Service, 703-289-2500 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joe Cross, who has posted 56 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Obamanation on 1/13/2009 I'm taking this trail to get to the Inauguration. Thanks WABA for keeping an eye on my bike. 
Reviewed by Linda on 1/7/2007 Actually, I bike this trail - easy to cover the entire trail both ways on a bike. Spectacular views of DC at the north, pause to watch the planes at the airport, cruise through old town Alexandria and under the new Wilson bridge, then marshes as you head down toward Mt. Vernon. I love it. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Virginia Hiking, Virginia Trails, Virginia Hikes, Fairfax County Hiking, Fairfax County Trails, Fairfax County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||