Mount Vernon Trail

The Mount Vernon Trail.

NPS/Maloy

The Mount Vernon Trail is an 18-mile paved multi-use trail that stretches from George Washington's Mount Vernon to Theodore Roosevelt Island. The trail links Fairfax County and the City of Alexandria, to Arlington County and major Potomac River bridge crossings into the District of Columbia. The Mount Vernon Trail is a popular recreation resource and critical regional transportation connection. The trail hosts over one million pedestrians and bicyclists annually. During peak periods, the trail north of Alexandria is one of the most heavily used multi-use trails in the country. The National Park Service originally constructed the Mount Vernon Trail in the 1970s and 1980s.

 

Things to Do

The Mount Vernon Trail winds alongside the Potomac River offering uninterrupted views of Washington, D.C.'s skyline. A run, walk, or cycle along the trail leads to all of the same sites that can be reached by car on the parallel section of the parkway.

To request a ranger program along the Mount Vernon Trail call 703‑235‑1530.

Hours & Seasons

The Mount Vernon Trail is open year-round from 6 am to 10 pm. Commuters may use the trail at any time.

Directions

The Mount Vernon Trail parallels the parkway between Theodore Roosevelt Island and Mount Vernon.

By Car

Parking is available at every site along the trail except Lady Bird Johnson Park and the Navy-Marine Memorial. Visit the individual webpages for those sites for directions.

By Metro

The Mount Vernon Trail is a short ride or walk from the Arlington Cemetery, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, and Rosslyn Metro stations.

Facilities

See the trail map to find restrooms, water fountains, and trash cans along the trail.

Rules and Regulations

Motorized vehicles, including skateboards, bicycles, scooters, and Segways are not allowed on the Mount Vernon Trail. Persons with disabilities may use motorized wheelchairs on the trail.

Bicycles are not allowed on the George Washington Memorial Parkway.

Commercial activities and activities by organized groups, including trail walks and runs, require a permit. For information about permits please call 703‑289‑2513.

For a complete list of rules, please read the Laws & Policies.

 

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  Friends of Mount Vernon Trail

  501(c)3 nonprofit organization that partners with the National Park Service to improve the Mount Vernon Trail through volunteer stewardship.

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  Capital Bikeshare

  Thousands of visitors each year choose Capital Bikeshare to sustainably access the park and our nation's monuments.

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  Arlington County Commuter Services

  ACCS enhances economic vitality by improving mobility and air quality.

 

The Friends of the Mount Vernon Trail (FoMVT) partners with the George Washington Memorial Parkway to provide educational, interpretive and volunteer trail improvement events. FoMVT is a diverse group of runners, walkers and cyclists that works to increase access and promote safety for all users on the trail. Find more information on ways to support the trail and upcoming events by visiting FoMVT's website, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.