This week’s downpour throughout the East Coast has had a major impact on Northern Virginia. Throughout the region, parks have announced closures as flooding continues to impact and damage local trails. If you plan on enjoying the beautiful spring weather this weekend, make sure to check if these parks and trails have reopened.
Flash flooding has caused closures at Great Falls Park, Shenandoah National Park, Leesburg’s Piscataway Crossing Regional Park, McLean’s Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, and Great Falls’ Riverbend Park.
Great Falls Park announced on Thursday, May 15, that moderate flooding has covered many of its trails, causing them to close. Closures include North Patowmack Canal Trail and North River Trail, closed from Mine Run to Riverbend Park; South River Trail from Sandy Landing to Ridge Trail; Fisherman’s Eddy; and the AA Gorge Bridge on River Trail. Parking will also be limited with the closing of the North Upper parking lot.
As of Friday, May 16, Shenandoah National Park has temporarily closed seven trails, including the Limberlost Trail, the Skyland Horse Trail, and the Old Rag parking area. A recent storm has caused sections or trails to be washed out and created hazardous flooding conditions throughout its stream systems.
At Riverbend Park and Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, the Potomac Heritage Trail — which runs along the Potomac River and leads to Great Falls Park — will be closed until May 19. Piscataway Crossing Regional Park is completely closed to the public until further notice.
Flooding alerts across the region are expected to be raised by this afternoon.
Feature image courtesy Great Falls Park/National Park Service
