The Washington & Old Dominion Trail
The Washington & Old Dominion Trail, often called the W&OD Trail, is a 45-mile paved multi-use path that stretches from Purcellville in Loudoun County, Virginia to Shirlington in Arlington County. Once a historic rail line, the trail now serves as a popular recreational and commuter route for cyclists, runners, walkers, and nature enthusiasts. Winding through suburban neighborhoods, scenic countryside, and towns, the W&OD Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local history, making it a cherished resource for residents and visitors.
Trail Highlights
The W&OD Trail offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a weekend cyclist, daily commuter, or casual walker, the trail’s flat and paved surface makes it easy to enjoy. Along the route, you’ll pass through several parks, wooded areas, open fields, and streams. Towns like Ashburn, Leesburg, and Purcellville provide excellent stopping points with restaurants, shops, and public amenities nearby. The parallel gravel path available for much of the trail’s length is ideal for horseback riders and those looking for a softer surface.
A Brief History
The Washington & Old Dominion Trail traces the path of the former Washington & Old Dominion Railroad, which served Northern Virginia from the 1850s until the mid-20th century. Originally built to transport passengers and freight between Alexandria and the Blue Ridge region, the line saw its final run in 1968 before being converted into a recreational trail in the 1970s. Today, the trail preserves that legacy, with several historical markers and preserved structures, such as the red caboose in Vienna and restored stations in towns along the route.
Planning Your Visit
Before heading out, consider where you’d like to start and what kind of experience you’re looking for. Want a scenic ride through farmland? Start near Purcellville. Looking for a family-friendly stroll with lunch in town? Leesburg or Ashburn are ideal. Many access points offer parking, and public transportation is available near the eastern portion of the trail. You can explore the trail in short segments or tackle longer distances with ease thanks to its even grade and wide, well-maintained surface.
Trail Access Points in Loudoun County
If you’re starting your W&OD adventure in Loudoun County, you’ll find some of the trail’s most scenic and peaceful stretches. These three access points offer great amenities and direct connections to both nature and nearby town centers:
Trailside Park in Ashburn offers one of the most convenient and scenic entry points to the W&OD Trail in Loudoun County. Located at 43895 Grottoes Drive, this spot features free parking and restrooms, making it a great starting point for both casual riders and long-distance cyclists. The surrounding area transitions from suburban neighborhoods to wooded stretches and open fields, providing a quieter, more peaceful experience compared to the busier parts of the trail. It’s an ideal launch point for uninterrupted biking, walking, or even horseback riding on the adjacent gravel path
Situated at the intersection of Harrison Street SE and Catoctin Circle SE, the Leesburg access point provides a perfect blend of history, nature, and convenience. Nearby Raflo Park offers free public parking and a welcoming green space to start your ride or walk. From here, trail users can head west into the countryside or east toward Ashburn and beyond. Downtown Leesburg is just minutes away, with its mix of shops, cafes, and local breweries making it easy to turn a trail outing into a full-day adventure.
As the western terminus of the W&OD Trail, Purcellville offers a peaceful and charming gateway to some of the most scenic sections of the route. Located at 212 S 21st Street, the trailhead features a free public lot next to the restored train station. This spot is popular among cyclists starting or finishing long rides, and it’s also a great place to explore Loudoun’s rural beauty. With nearby wineries, farm markets, and a walkable downtown, Purcellville is an excellent choice for those looking to pair their trail time with a taste of local flavor.
The Washington & Old Dominion Trail is more than just a path it’s a window into Virginia’s past, a corridor of nature through growing suburbs, and a recreational outlet for thousands each year. Whether you visit for exercise, exploration, or a peaceful moment in nature, the W&OD welcomes you with open trails and rich stories waiting to be discovered.