On and Off Road Biking

Biking is one of the most popular activities at Prince William Forest Park.

With its low traffic, ample shade, and smooth asphalt, Prince William Forest Park is a popular place for road bicycling. For beginners, three miles of Park Scenic Drive has a designated bicycle lane providing a paved, relatively flat surface. This three-mile bicycle lane is located between Parking Lot D and the Park Scenic Drive/Oak Ridge Campground Road intersection. More experienced cyclists chose to bicycle the entire Park Scenic Drive Loop, which is eight miles in length and hilly. For 11 miles total and several additional hill climbs, cyclists park at Pine Grove Picnic Area.

For mountain bicycling, 10 relatively short "fire roads" are gravel roads and closed to public vehicles. These roads are listed on the park brochure, which can be picked up at the Entrance Station or at the Visitor Center.

 

Electric Bicycles

In an effort to make parks more accessible for all individuals, the National Park Service has approved the use of electric bicycles (e-bikes). E-bikes have become an increasingly popular form of recreation and are now allowed for use in national parks. The intent of this action is to address an emerging technology in a manner that accommodates visitors and increases opportunities for the public to recreate within and travel through the National Park System, while at the same time protecting the resources and values that draw millions of visitors each year.

E-bikes fall under the same park policies and safety guidelines as manual bicycles.

 

Rules and Regulations

Bicycles are allowed on paved roads as well as designated unpaved "fire roads." Bicycling is prohibited on all hiking trails and in the Chopawamsic Backcountry Area for the safety of hikers and to prevent trail degradation.

• Respect and do not disturb wildlife.
• Riders must obey all traffic regulations including speed limits posted within the park.
• Riders must ride single file when using paved roads.
• Use caution when overtaking others and make your presence known well in advance.
• Bicycles are only allowed on paved roads and fire roads only, not on hiking trails.

Note: This is only a guide and is not all inclusive. Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations is applicable to the park. For further information, please contact the park's visitor center at 703-221-7181.

 

Safety

Bicycling is done at the visitor's own risk. The following is a list of necessary precautions:

• Bring along a park map when riding.

• Be aware of changing weather conditions.

• Check your brakes and tire pressure before riding.

• Bring along plenty of water and be sure to drink it.

• Helmets are required.

• Be aware of fallen tree debris and ice on all roads and trails.

• Always yield to hikers and other non-motorized recreationalists.

• Maintain control of your speed at all times and observe park speed limits and stop signs.