Since its first documented ride on September 7, 1974, in Falls Church, the Washington & Old Dominion Trail has become one of the most popular bike trails in Northern Virginia, with more than 2 million annual visitors. The 45-mile route begins in the Shirlington area of Arlington and ends in Purcellville.
This year, the W&OD Trail celebrates its 50th Anniversary as one of the first rails-to-trails conversions in the nation. Along the trail, you’ll find multiple places to rest, eat, take pictures, and tune up your bike.
Bon Air Park Rose Garden
This 24-acre park features playgrounds, picnic areas, and a stream. Snap photos at the memorial rose garden featuring 120 distinct varieties of roses. 850 N. Lexington St., Arlington
West End Park
Bring kids and family to the playground and skateboard area equipped with BMX features. Relax at picnic tables and admire various native plants. 1048 W. Broad St., Falls Church
Caboose Brewing Co.
Right off the W&OD in Vienna, you can build your own beer flight or have a classic bloody mary and a burger at this hot spot known to attract cyclists. 520 Mill St. NE, Vienna
Bike Lane Brewing & Cafe
Shop for bikes, accessories, and apparel for the perfect ride or stop by to visit the café for a muffin and coffee or a handcrafted beer. The beer menu changes weekly. 11150 Sunset Hills Rd., Reston
Carolina Brothers Pit BBQ
Visit this barbecue joint right alongside the trail in Ashburn for tasty ribs, smoked pork, chicken, and Southern-style sides. Eat outside on the pet-friendly patio. 20702 Ashburn Rd., Ashburn
Sweet Rose Bakeshop
Try cookies, brownies, pies, and other sweets at this cozy bakery and coffee shop for a tasty treat while on the trail. 201 N. 23rd St., Purcellville
Feature image courtesy NOVA Parks
This story originally ran in our September issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
