Editor’s Note: This post was originally written for our April print issue, before the current coronavirus situation we are facing. Please check the businesses’ websites to see if they are open at this time.
Written by Renee Sklarew, Mathina Calliope and Nevin Martell
Stop 1: Park at the Sterling W&OD parking lot off Pacific Boulevard near Auto Nation Honda Dulles. (mile marker 24.5)
Ride 1 mile to Stop 2: Family-owned Old Ox Brewery is less than 10 steps from the W&OD Trail. With ample bike parking, Old Ox welcomes riders to stop and sample its superb lineup of craft beer. The cycle-friendly brewery always has a food truck parked outside. (mile marker 25.5)
Ride 2 miles to Stop 3: Carolina Brothers Pit Barbeque is at the intersection of State Road 641 in Ashburn, just one block from the trail. Try its famous brisket (when available) or pulled pork sandwich. Car lot available. (mile marker 27.5)
Ride 2 miles to Stop 4: Cross under the Belmont Ridge Bridge to the overlook at Luck Stone Quarry. Belmont Ridge was formerly a resort area on the historic railroad. Stones from the Luck Stone Quarry were used to build the Washington, DC Beltway. (mile marker 29.4)
Ride 3 miles to Stop 5: Rest or refill your water bottle at Tuscarora Creek Park. Car parking available. (mile marker 32.3)
Ride 2 miles to Stop 6: Crooked Run Brewing is a small-batch brewery with leading-edge craft beer. The brewery is part of the Market Station complex, a quarter-mile from the W&OD Trail. Exit the trail at Leesburg Junction at Harrison Street Southeast heading north behind LoCo Beans. (mile marker 34.2)
Also at Stop 6: Refuel with a pastry or sandwich on fresh-baked ciabatta bread at South Street Under or try some refreshing beverages at Wild Hare Cider. (mile marker 34.2)
Ride 0.3 miles to Stop 7: Follow the signs to Black Walnut Brewery/Kahvila Coffee House in downtown Leesburg. The vintage building has an outdoor beer garden in the back. (mile marker 34.4)
Hop off the trail and ride 0.2 miles into downtown Leesburg to Stop 8: Black Hoof Brewing Company, located at the corner of Market Street and King Street, offers fun and games with its craft beer. (mile marker 34.4)
This post originally appeared in our April 2020 print issue. For more drinks, things to do and parks and rec stories, subscribe to our newsletters.
