W&OD Trail Report

Northern Virginia Model Railroaders

2012-02-22T16:58:00.002-05:00

The Northern Virginia Model Railroaders will be holding their next open house on March 17th from 1 to 5 pm at the train depot at Mile Marker 11.8 in Vienna (Ayr Hill crossing). See http://www.nvmr.org for further information and details.

Pauls Ride For Life

2012-02-22T16:54:00.002-05:00

Pauls Ride For Life is advertising its fourth occurrence on the trail for this April 28th. See http://www.PaulsRideForLife.org for further details.

W&OD Trail from Reston to Vienna

2012-02-12T15:10:00.000-05:00

The trail was mostly clear of snow and ice this morning between Reston at Sunrise Valley Dr and Vienna. I didn't see any other cyclists but there was only one stretch just east of Sunrise Valley where there was snow and some ice. However, there may not be some patches of ice where there's been melting and re-freezing.

Trail Patrol New Member Orientation

2012-02-07T12:54:00.001-05:00

An orientation session for new members will be held Saturday, March 17, 2012 at 10:00am at the Reston Regional Library, 11925 Bowman Towne Drive, Reston, VA 20190-3311

New members should attend to learn about what the Trail patrol does, requirements for becoming a member, and other information.

Contact:

Dirck Harris
Trail Patrol Training Coordinator
Dirck_H55@verizon.net
(703) 698-8808

Trail Patrol seeks new members

2012-02-03T06:13:00.000-05:00

Responsible adult of any physical ability who walks, runs, skates, skis, cycles, rides a wheelchair, sits astride a horse, pushes a carriage, or just strolls on the trail is welcome to become a trail patrol member. The Patrol operates under the sponsorship of the Friends of the W&OD, whose purpose is to support and enhance the Trail. The basic responsibilities of a patrol member are to:

 Promote the safe use of the Trail
 Provide information about the Trail to the public
 Assist Trail users when help is needed

Volunteers should be willing to commit a few hours each month to the Patrol's on-going effort to keep the W&OD Trail safe, to maintain and, hopefully augment the luster of this bright jewel of the region.

Volunteers may choose to serve on the trail or behind the scenes in support of the patrol -- or both. Even a small contribution of your flexibly arranged time will be helpful, and the experience should be both rewarding and fun. If you wish to help in these capacities there is a role you can perform.

For further information please contact the W&OD Trail Office at (703) 729-0596 or WOD@nvrpa.org. To apply on line go to www.wodfriends.org and go to the trail patrol tab.

Giving Thanks 5k--Thursday November 24, 2011

2011-11-21T09:19:00.000-05:00

Time: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Location: Vienna
Notes: "Giving Thanks 5k" event from 8 AM - 10 AM. The 5k runs from approximately the Vienna Train Station out to Clarks Crossing Park then returning to the station. About 400 people expected for this event.

Information on accident needed

2011-10-19T05:56:00.000-05:00

I am looking for anybody who may have information on an accident
occurred on October 8th 2011 around 1pm on the WOD trail . Behind Firestation number 6 on Falls church. Just past lee hwy (around mile 6 on the trail)

I spent several days in the hospital as a result of the accident. I do not remember the accident at all and I am hoping to find a witness that can help me piece together what happened then.
thanks,
Santiago Davila
email_adr = santiagodc@live.com

Town of Vienna, Virginia Police Department

2011-10-12T12:49:00.000-05:00

Media Information Release
Request for Witnesses to Bicycle vs. Car
Hit and Run Crash
On September 29, 2011 at approximately 3:45 p.m. a white colored Honda
Civic bearing Maryland license plates struck a juvenile bicyclist at the
intersection of Maple Avenue, SE and the Washington and Old Dominion
Trail.
The bicyclist sustained minor injuries but the striking motorist fled from the
scene. The driver of the vehicle that fled is described only as a Hispanic
female.
Anyone with any information regarding this crash is asked to contact MPO
Sheeran at jsheeran@viennava.gov or 703-255-7826.
For further information please contact:
MPO Bill Murray- Town of Vienna Police Department
Public Information Officer at wmurray@viennava.gov or 703-255-6396
See Something? Say Something! Help Police Fight Crime.
Call 9-1-1.

Trail Events--September 24

2011-09-23T05:18:00.000-05:00

Pet Carnival

Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Location: Loudon HS
Notes: Paws 4 People Puppy Prance & Canine Carnival sponsored by Paws 4 People Foundation. Section of trail to be used is from Loudoun County High School (mile marker 35.5 near bridge) to Foxridge Park. At most a one mile dog walk event. Approx 150 people for this event.

Charity Walk
Time: 8:00 am - 12:30 pm
Location: Vienna-Clark's Xing
Notes: Walk for Growing Hope" sponsored by the Optimist Club of Greater Vienna. It is a walk from the Vienna Town Green out to Clark's Crossing and returning to the Town Green. Approx 250 participants for this event.

Trail Damage

2011-09-10T14:13:00.004-05:00

This weeks deluge did a bit of damage to the trail next to Piney Branch, west of Vienna.

Alzheimer's Tour De Canal, Sept 11, 7:30a to 5:00p

2011-09-09T04:53:00.001-05:00

The Alzheimer's Association, National Capitol Area, Tour de Canal, has
been moved from the C & O Canal as a two day, 184 mile ride to
a one day ride on the W & OD Trail.

Starting times will be staggered from 7:30 to 2:00, and leave from the Herndon Station parking lot.

Riders will be doing 20, 50, and 90 mile rides.

Rest/water stops will be in Bon Air, Herndon, Leesburg, and Purcillville.

iPod Oblivion

2011-08-29T09:02:00.000-05:00

Any of this sound familiar?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/10463227

Trees down between Vienna and Reston

2011-08-28T11:00:00.000-05:00

There's one large tree down just east of Difficult Run. It's possible to get around it on the shoulder. Another tree is partially blocking the trail just west of Hunter Mill Rd.

Trail Event- August 27

2011-08-26T05:31:00.000-05:00

Civil War Hike

Date: Saturday August 27, 2011
Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Wiehle-Hunter Mill
Notes: Civil War Hike. Monthly hike of Civil War reenactors from Wiehle Avenue to Hunter Mill Road. Time of event is from 9 AM to 5 PM. Approx one dozen hikers for this event.

Trail Event--September 3

2011-08-26T05:28:00.000-05:00

Hail the Trail', Saturday, September 3
Hail the Trail, part of Dominion Power's Trail Mix, will be held on Saturday, September 3 from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at 10 different locations along the W&OD trail. Volunteers are needed to support the 'Park Station' Hail the Trail site in Vienna. Volunteers will meet at the Vienna Community Center and help remove trash and invasive species. Each volunteer will receive a free t-shirt! The first 100 volunteers on site will receive a free pastry courtesy of Vienna Fresh Market. Visit Dominion Trail Mix ( http://bit.ly/rafX9Z )for more information. To register as a Hail the Trail participant, visit: http://bit.ly/qnj6dk.

ROAMing?

2011-08-25T12:27:00.008-05:00

There were some unusual visitors in Vienna late yesterday afternoon- 30 velomobiles. They started their trip July 28th in Portland, Oregon and ended their journey in Georgetown last night. FABB arranged a stop in Vienna at the caboose and everybody present got a good look at these exotic machines. To give you an idea of how fast they move, the first sighting was in Leesburg on the east side of town; one hour later they were in Vienna- that's from the 32 mile marker to just east of the 12 mile marker. At one point out west going downhill one of the riders recorded a speed of 70mph. A more detailed look at their journey can be found here: http://www.rolloveramerica.eu/

Trail Event--August 21

2011-08-18T06:43:00.001-05:00

Reston Bike Club Century
Time: 6:30 am - 5:30 pm
Location: W&OD Leesburg-Reston
Notes: Approximately 1200 riders start at Reston Town Center. The portion of the W&OD used for this event is from Grace Street in Herndon to Ashburn Road (westbound leg) and returning from Leesburg to Reston Town Center via trail in its entirety (eastbound leg).

Construction at Maple Avenue

2011-08-17T09:46:00.002-05:00

This picture, looking westward, shows the new intersection with Maple Avenue in Purcellville. The gravel bed coursing leftwards will be the new trail. On the other side, an identical alteration is in process with result that the trail will cross Maple Avenue at a right angle.

Training for New Patrollers

2011-08-14T06:58:00.001-05:00

Orientation for new Trail Patrol members will be held at 8:30 AM on Saturday, September 17th, at the intersection of the W&OD and Sandburg St. in Dunn Loring. Bring a chair or something to sit on. The session should last about an hour. No need to bring anything except pen and paper if you want to take a note or two.

If you are interested in becoming a member you should attend. This session gives a basic overview of what the Trail Patrol is and what it does. Please let the training coordinator know if you are going to attend. Contact: Dirck Harris, Patrol Training Coordinator, Dirck_H55@verizon.net

Trail Event- August 14

2011-08-13T08:24:00.000-05:00

Leesburg 10/20K Run

Date: Sunday August 14, 2011
Time: 7:00 am - 10:00 am
Location: Dry Mill Road near 4H Fairground to Leesburg
Notes: Leesburg 10k/20k sponsored by Potomac River Running Events Inc.
Approx 1200 people for this event.

Patroller Orientation

2011-08-07T07:42:00.001-05:00

Date: Saturday August 13, 2011
Time: 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Location: intersection of W&OD & Sandburg St - Vienna
Notes: All new patroller trainees are encouraged to attend.
If you have questions or want to sign up contact Dirck Harris, Patrol Training Coordinator Dirck_H55@verizon.net

Flooding at Wilson Blvd. underpass

2011-08-06T16:51:00.000-05:00

Certainly it will not last very long, but people should be careful at the underpasses.

Arlington, VA at Wilson Blvd.

If that does not look scary look at the video ...

Way Up There

2011-07-29T11:19:00.003-05:00

Larry Hodgin caught this the other day. Some of the underpasses on the W&OD must get interesting with this rig...

Trail Event--July 30

2011-07-29T04:57:00.000-05:00

The 5th(?) annual Friends of the W&OD 10K is scheduled for Saturday, July 30. It will start at 6:30 p.m. on the west side of Ayr Hill Road in Vienna. Runners head west on the trail, leave the trail briefly near Clark's Crossing to run a short spur in the neighborhood, then return to the trail to run to Hunter Mill Road, turn around (without crossing HMR), and return east to finish at Ayr Hill Road. Expect more trail congestion than usual due to the race. Last runners should be off the trail by 8:00 p.m. (before dark!). Usually 400 runners and about 100 more people who are volunteers and spectators. Information is at the Friends website: www.wodfriends.org.

Purcellville–Construction

2011-07-27T12:57:00.000-05:00

The Maple Avenue and W&OD Trail Pedestrian Improvements project will begin on Tuesday, July 5th, 2011. The Town’s contractor will begin working at the W&OD
Trail at Maple Avenue, and will shortly thereafter continue along the east side of North Maple Avenue. Daytime temporary traffic flaggers and short period closures can be expected during construction. Detours will be provided for users of the W&OD Trail around longer term work areas in the area of Maple Avenue. The improvements will include the installation of a 10FT wide multi-use asphalt trail along the east side of North Maple Avenue and connect pedestrian and cyclist access from East
Main Street to Loudoun Valley High School and the W&OD Trail. The improvements will also include the realignment of the W&OD Trail as it intersects North Maple Avenue and provide a safer more perpendicular crossing. Total construction time from start to finish is anticipated to take approximately three months.

Trail event today

2011-06-25T05:19:00.000-05:00

There will be a Womens’ Run from 8 to about 10 am. They will be using the trail between the Reston and Herndon Parkway, both directions. There is a possibility of up to 400 participants.

Atlantic Boulevard overpass

2011-06-18T15:33:00.002-05:00

Signs along the trail inform us that steel for the Atlantic Boulevard overpass will be set June 21 through June 24. Intermittent trail closures should be expected when the overhead steel is unsecured. Atlantic Boulevard is near Mile Marker 23.5; between Route 28 and Church Road.

New Member Orientation

2011-06-17T17:11:00.001-05:00

Reminder from:		WODtrailpatrol Yahoo! Group

Title:		Patroller Orientation

Date:		Saturday June 18, 2011
Time:		8:30 am - 9:30 am
Location:		Vienna - Sandburg St
Notes:		Orientation for new Trail Patrol members will be held at 8:30 AM on Saturday, June 18th, at the intersection of the W&OD and Sandburg St. in Dunn Loring. Bring a chair or something to sit on. The session should last about an hour.No need to bring anything except pen and paper if you want to take a note or two. Contact: Dirck Harris, Patrol Training Coordinator, Dirck_H55@....

Beltway Bridge Opening at 10:00, not 11:00

2011-06-07T15:56:00.004-05:00

The new bridge over the Beltway will open June 15th at 10:00 a.m., rain or shine. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony on the east side (inner loop of the Beltway). Parking at Sandburg & the W&OD Trail.

no more vending

2011-06-06T19:37:00.001-05:00

The vending machines at Smiths Switch have been removed. A combination of low sales volume and vandalism is the cause.

Friends of W&OD Annual Picnic

2011-06-03T17:18:00.001-05:00

Having trouble reading this email? View it on your browser . Not interested anymore? Unsubscribe Instantly .

Friday, June 3, 2011

Friends of the W&OD Trail Annual Picnic

Please come and join us at our annual Friends of the W&OD Trail picnic on Saturday June 11th from 12 noon until 3 PM. The location of the picnic will be at the W&OD Trail office in Ashburn and the address is 21293 Smith Switch Road Ashburn, VA 20147. Items on the menu will include crab legs, coconut shrimp / shrimp cocktail, pulled pork BBQ, BBQ chicken, coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, cookies, and assorted drinks including sodas, iced tea, lemonade, and bottled water.

Please RSVP by emailing us at wod@... or contacting us by phone at (703) 729-0596 with the number of people attending in your party. We look forward to seeing you here!

ABOUT NVRPA
The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority enhances the communities of Northern Virginia and enriches the lives of their citizens through the conservation of regional natural and cultural resources. It provides diverse regional recreational and educational opportunities, and fosters an understanding of the relationships between people and their environment.

NVRPA Board of Directors â€“ City of Alexandria: David M. Pritzker, Justin Wilson; Arlington County: Paul Ferguson, Michael Nardolilli; Fairfax County: Jean R. Packard, Stella Koch; City of Fairfax: Brian Knapp, Arthur F. Little; City of Falls Church: Jeffrey Tarbert, Barry D. Buschow; Loudoun County: Joan G. Rokus, Su Webb (Chairman).

Trail Patrol Orientation

2011-06-01T06:52:00.002-05:00

Orientation for new Trail Patrol members will be held at 8:30 AM on Saturday, June 18th, at the intersection of the W&OD and Sandburg St. in Dunn Loring. Bring a chair or something to sit on. The session should last about an hour.No need to bring anything except pen and paper if you want to take a note or two. Contact: Dirck Harris, Patrol Training Coordinator, Dirck_H55@verizon.net.

Be Careful...

2011-05-30T10:48:00.000-05:00

From: http://www.thewashcycle.com/Cyclist-Runner crash on the W&OD

Someone wrote in with this eyewitness account and it is reminder that pedestrians have the right-of-way on the trail and it is critical that we, as cyclists, treat them with great deference.

I witnessed a crash on the W&OD this morning. A cyclist rear-ended a runner. I was riding my bike and was catching the cyclist at the time and saw what happened very clearly. The cyclist was at fault. She just rear-ended the runner, who was in the middle of the trail. I told her it was her fault, to which she replied, "he was in the middle of the trail." I said, "and so were you." Though he was in the middle of the trail, she had plenty of space to pass. In fact, she was right on the orange line in the middle when she hit him. Cyclist and runner fell. Runner had cuts/scrapes on hand and no other injuries. Cyclist was fine so far as I could tell. I stayed around only long enough to make sure there were no injuries and to tell the cyclist (not so nicely I am afraid) that it was definitely her fault and she needs to be more careful. I am afraid I could have been nicer to her and maybe she wouldn't have been so defensive. I told her that as a cyclist I'd like to support her, but I really couldn't because it was clearly her fault. I don't know whether she gave an audible warning that she was going to pass. I didn't hear any and I was close, so if she did it was faint. In any event the runner didn't move right (which he said he always does). She just plowed down the middle of the path anyway. It happened on a long straight part of the W&OD through Falls Church where we could see the runner for a long time. There was no other traffic and the runner did not deviate from running a straight line.

Posted by washcycle on May 29, 2011 in Crash , Injury , W&OD Trail | Permalink | Comments (19)

Viva Vienna

2011-05-29T17:44:00.001-05:00

Reminder from:		WODtrailpatrol Yahoo! Group

Title:		Viva Vienna

Date:		Monday May 30, 2011
Time:		10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Location:		Vienna
Notes:		Vienna street festival

Trail Events--Sunday May 22nd

2011-05-20T08:52:00.000-05:00

Leesburg 5K
Time: 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Location: Leesburg
Weight Watchers of Leesburg 5k. 65 participants expected.

Great Strides"
Time: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Location: Leesburg & Vienna
Great Strides Leesburg & Great Strides Vienna. 500 people participating in each event (1000 total)

Trail Event--Saturday, May 21th and 22nd

2011-05-19T08:12:00.000-05:00

St. Timothy Bike-a-thon
Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
About 20 youth and 5 adult cyclists riding from Arlington out to Purcellville on May 21st, riding back to Arlington on May 22nd.

Trail Event--Friday, May 20th

2011-05-16T05:03:00.001-05:00

Bike to Work
Time: 6:00 am - 9:00 am
Thousands of area commuters will participate in the annual Bike to Work Day event. Many of those will be on the W&OD Trail. Several of the ride's "pit stops" are located along the W&OD Trail; including Reston, Herndon, Vienna and Merrifield. For more information on pit stop locations, please go to www.waba.org.

May 14 trail event

2011-05-12T07:20:00.000-05:00

Got Your Back" 5k run
Time: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Location: Reston
Notes: Got Your Back" 5k in Reston (using short area of trail around Sunrise Valley Drive). 500 people from 8 AM to 10 AM.

"Just when you thought the trail was safe"

2011-05-11T11:21:00.002-05:00

The electronic sign at the eastern end of the 495 overpass construction was changed to read "CAUTION ZOMBIES AHEAD". While I looked for zombies, I did not see them. Sorry about the quality of the photo. It was the best I could do with my cell phone. However, ABC chanel 7 was there interviewing trail users and looking to film the zombies.

summer must be coming soon

2011-05-05T16:14:00.002-05:00

The fountain at the trail's end in Purcellville has been turned on; a sure sign that warm weather is here to stay. Other items of note: the crossing at Cochran Mill (mile 30.5) has been repaved and the vending machines at the Smiths Switch rest area are out of order.

Trail Events on Saturday, April 30

2011-04-29T16:51:00.001-05:00

1) Paul's Ride for Life Time:
Location: Reston Town Center
7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Registration open
7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Ride
12:00 p.m. Closing ceremony at Reston Town Center Pavilion
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Cyclefest open
ROUTE: Start at Reston Town Center Pavilion
The ride includes 10, 20, and 1/2 Century +2 mile options.
About 250 participants expected

2) Cycle Fest
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Reston Town Center
Notes: "Cyclefest" will be occuring at Reston Town Center in conjunction with "Paul's Ride for Life".

3) Walk-Run-Ride for Life
Time: 8:00 am - 11:00 am
Location: Ashburn at Smith Swtich Station
"Walk / Run / Ride for Life" event from 8 AM to 11 AM.
Approx. 100 participants for this event sponsored by the Assist Pregnancy Center. Participants will enter the trail at Cedar Lane heading west towards Smith Switch rest area, then return to Vienna (Grace Orthodox Presbyterian Church).

Trail Patrol Orientation

2011-04-24T07:11:00.001-05:00

Orientation for new Trail Patrol members will be held at 1pm on Sunday May 1st at the intersection of the W&OD and Sandburg St. in Dunn Loring. Bring a chair or something to sit on. The session should last about an hour.

new asphalt

2011-04-23T09:46:00.002-05:00

The paving between mile 13.6 and 11.8 has been completed and gravel shoulders installed. All that remains is for the new striping to be added. There are also new sections at 19.5, the Route 28 bridge (hurray! a few less kerCHUNKs), and over Broad Run at 24.5; the last fixes the slump that filled much of the west bound lane.

Saturday Events--April 23

2011-04-22T05:45:00.001-05:00

1--Ride To Provide
Time: 8:30 am - 2:00 pm
Location: Reston Town Center
Notes: This features Lorenzo Alexander from the Washington Redskins and will begin at Reston Town Center; riders heading out to Leesburg, then returning to RTC. Approximately 150 people for this event

2--Hunter Mill Walk
Time: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Hunter Mill Rd - Wiehle Ave
Notes: The monthly gathering of the Civil War reenactors will be hiking from Wiehle Avenue to Hunter Mill Road. About 12 hikers maximum for this event.

Trail Patrol Orientation

2011-03-25T06:20:00.002-05:00

Orientation for new Trail Patrol members will be held on Sunday March 27, 2011,
from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm. It will be held at the Reston Library, 11925 Bowman Towne Dr, Reston, VA 20190 (703) 698-8808

If interested in joining the Trail Patrol sign up at http://www.wodfriends.org/

Sunday Event--March 27th

2011-03-23T06:06:00.001-05:00

Walter L. Mess W&OD 5K

Time: 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Location: American Legion Lodge Post 130, 400 North Oak Street, Falls Church, VA

A 5k run will be held on the W&OD Trail in Falls Church in honor of Walter L. Mess. The start and finish of the race will be located at the American Legion Post.

Walter Mess, a founding member of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, Falls Church city resident and long-time park supporter, Mess was appointed to the NVRPA Board as an original representative from the City of Falls Church in 1958.The run, sponsored by the Friends of the W&OD Trail will honor Mess and his extensive involvement with the community. Proceeds from the run will benefit FOWOD and local charities.To register or get more run information, visit www.mc-coop.org or call 703-927-4833. Registration forms are also available at the City library, 120 N. Virginia Ave., and Community Center, 223 Little Falls St.

To 0, but not beyond

2011-03-22T20:13:00.002-05:00

After uncounted thousands of miles riding the trail I finally reached mile 0 today. Next, I guess, will be to ride the entire trail at once ...
As Jeff has noted new pavement is being laid between Hunter Mill Road and Vienna. Today they were paving between miles 13 and 12.5 so there's just a little way to go. But then the gravel shoulders have yet to be laid.
The fountain at Sunset Hills Road (near Mile Marker 16) is now operational.

Trail Paving

2011-03-22T13:05:00.000-05:00

Parts of the trail are being paved between Vienna and Hunter Mill Road. While this causes a short term inconvenience, long term benefits will be derived from a smother trail. I suspect that mountain bikes must have loved the detour—especially the water portage—but road cyclists would not be thrilled about walking across the rocks with their external cleats. Expect crews to soon be out marking these sections.

From the W&OD Flyer Spring issue

2011-03-19T05:51:00.000-05:00

Monday, March 14, 2011

In this issue
Construction activities along the Trail
Upcoming Events on the W&OD
W&OD Trail Comments/Suggestions
In short
About the Friends of the W&OD
The Friends of the W&OD (aka FOWOD) are a volunteer affiliate of the popular Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park, which is owned and operated by the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA). The purpose of FOWOD is to support and enhance the Trail and its multiple uses as a recreational, environmental and historic resource through fund-raising, promotion, research, educational programming and maintenance.

FOWOD meets on the first Tuesday of the month (except on holidays) at the Vienna Community Center; located at 120 Cherry Street SE Vienna, VA 22180. Meetings start at 7:00 PM and conclude no later than 9:00 PM.

For more information or to join FOWOD, please call (703) 729-0596 or go to the FOWOD website at www.wodfriends.org.

FOWOD Board Officers
President - Roger Neighborgall
Vice President - Pat Turner
Treasurer - David Jackino
Corresponding Secretary - Peter Straub
Recording Secretary - Jay Wind
Webmaster - Bill McCarthy
FOWOD Board Members
Jennifer Crawford
Steve Lord
Anne Pastorkovich (Trail Patrol Representative)
John Shea
B.J. Silvey (Trail Patrol President & Representative)
George Topic
Sam Wheeler
Gordon Wisotzki

Upcoming Meeting Dates....
March 1st
April 5th
May 3rd
June 7th

Interested in becoming a member of the Trail Patrol?Help promote safety and proper trail etiquette
Provide information and directions to trail users
Assist trail users
Call the park office at (703) 729-0596 or email us at wod@nvrpa.org for more information.

Fun Places, Beautiful Spaces
The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority enhances the communities of Northern Virginia and enriches the lives of their citizens through the conservation of regional, natural and cultural resources. It provides diverse regional recreational and educational opportunities, and fosters an understanding of the relationships between people and their environment.

Please visit all your Regional Parks at www.nvrpa.org

W&OD Park Staff
Karl Mohle, Park Manager
Andy Kaganowich, Park Ranger
Roger Bornt, Maintenance Supervisor
Jackie Payne, Maintenance Worker

Feature Story
Warm Weather Returns to the W&ODWith spring beginning on March 20th, warm weather will (hopefully) return to the W&OD Trail. When the temperature goes up, naturally more people want to get out and enjoy the trail. As a gentle reminder, here is some practical information for our patrons to consider as they utilize the trail:

Travel in the right-hand lane, move to the left lane to pass slower traffic.
Give audible warning to trail users ahead.
Move completely off the trail when you come to a stop.
Travel only at speeds safe and appropriate to trail conditions and usage.
Along with these reminders we also have these suggestions for you as you are on the trail:

Let common sense and courtesy be your guides.
If possible, use the buddy system. At a minimum, make sure someone knows that you are going out on the trail and what section you'll be using.
Stop before crossing roads; be alert to obstacles that may be hazards or impede vision.
For a more complete listing of guidelines, please go to our website at www.nvrpa.org/w&odtrail or visit our friends group website at www.wodfriends.org

Construction activities along the TrailOver the coming days and weeks, various projects will be conducted along the W&OD. The following is a list of said projects and relevant information:

The new W&OD Trail bridge over the Capital Beltway (I-495) is under construction on the north side of the existing trail bridge. The existing bridge and trail are open during construction. Trail repaving and realignment to the new bridge is scheduled to occur between March 15 - April 15, 2011. Bicyclists are asked to dismount and follow the directions of the flagmen while in these work zones. Please use caution while traveling through this area. Once the new bridge is open to trail users, which is anticipated to be on or around April 15, 2011, the old bridge and trail pavement will be removed. For more information, contact Dan Iglhaut at (703) 359-4628 or via email at diglhaut@nvrpa.org.

Repaving of various sections of the trail is on-going. Recently, the section of trail from Isaac Newton Square (Reston) down to Hunter Mill Road has been repaved. Other areas will include the east and west side of Route 28 bridge, the short section from Van Buren Street (Herndon) down to mile marker 19, the area around Broad Run Bridge in Ashburn (mile marker 24.5) and, lastly the area from Clark's Crossing Park down to Ayr Hill Road in Vienna. Depending on weather conditions the repaving is expected to take 2-4 weeks. Please be aware of signs/flagmen in the area and use caution while passing through these sections.

Upcoming Events on the W&OD
On Sunday March 27th, 2011, the Walter L. Mess W&OD Trail 5K Run will be held on the trail in Falls Church in honor of Mr. Mess. The start and finish of the race will be located at the American Legion Post Lodge #130, located at 400 North Oak Street in Falls Church.

A founding member of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA), city resident and long-time park supporter, Mr. Mess was appointed to the NVRPA Board as an original representative from the City of Falls Church in 1958. The run, sponsored by the Friends of the W&OD Trail (FOWOD) will honor Mr. Mess and his extensive involvement with the community. Proceeds from the run will benefit FOWOD and local charities. To register or get more information, visit www.mc-coop.org or call (703) 927-4833. Registration forms are also available at the City Library, 120 N. Virginia Avenue, and Community Center, 223 Little Falls Street.

On Saturday April 30th, 2011, Paul's Ride for Life will occur beginning at the Reston Town Center. This event is in conjunction with the CycleFest Expo at Reston Town Center. The bicycle ride is dedicated to Paul Rossmeissl; he passed away at age 54 from injuries sustained in a bicycle accident along the W&OD Trail. He gave the gift of life to three individuals who received his liver and both of his kidneys. This ride will benefit the Washington Regional Transplant Community. For more information or to register visit www.paulsrideforlife.org.

Bike to Work Day May 20th

Join thousands of area commuters on Friday May 20, 2011 for the annual Bike to Work Day. Learn how cycling can be a fun and healthy way to commute to work. There will be 50 regional pit stops throughout the Washington, D.C. area. Several of these pit stops are located along the W&OD Trail; including Reston, Herndon, Vienna and Merrifield. For more information on pit stop locations, please go to www.waba.org.

W&OD Trail Comments/SuggestionsPlease contact the trail office at (703) 729-0596 or via email at wod@nvrpa.org if you have questions or comments about the trail. If you have suggestions for our quarterly newsletter we welcome your thoughts as well.

Washington & Old Dominion Trail
21293 Smiths Switch Road, Ashburn, VA 20147 | T: 703-729-0596
www.nvrpa.org/W&ODTrail

Trail event today

2011-03-19T05:44:00.001-05:00

Civil War re-enactors will hike from Wiehle Avenue to Hunter Mill between 9am and 5pm today.

gravel shoulders

2011-03-16T17:23:00.002-05:00

Gravel shoulders are being laid along the newly paved section from MM 15 (Hunter Mill) to MM 17 (Isaac Newton). They're complete from just west of Isaac Newton to Sunrise Valley. Used the marked detour of the bridle trail for the section between Sunrise Valley and Buckthorn.

Great day for a ride

2011-03-11T13:24:00.002-05:00

Except for some water puddles, the trail was clear from mile marker 7 (Falls Church) to mile marker 24 (route 28). Heading west into the wind was slow but the return trip was great. Near the Dulles overpass I saw 2 female cyclists riding double using both lanes. The one in the left lane refused to yield to oncoming traffic and forced another cyclist to the edge and 2 pedestrians off the trail. While it is ok to ride double, please yield to oncoming traffic.

a quiet ride

2011-03-08T13:55:00.002-05:00

Took my Glider for a spin out to Purcellville today. The debris from the high winds is mostly gone. They've been clearing dead trees, vines, and such from about Cochran Mill Road. Saw the truck at work near Mile Marker 35. The picture is near Mile Marker 36.5 looking eastbound. Dominion has done a nice job.

signs of spring

2011-03-03T07:13:00.002-05:00

Rode from Vienna to Purcellville. The cheeping at Difficult Run was deafening. Most of the brush and debris from the recent high winds has been removed. Fountains at Sunset Hills and Purcellville remain off but the others function.

Ding Dong, the ice is gone -- not

2011-02-17T13:43:00.002-05:00

The trail west of Leesburg is clear except for two locations: the S curve at Clarks Gap (MM 38+) and underneath 7 along 287 at MM 43+. In those two locations one needed to dismount as snow/ice covered all of the trail. Both sections were short though, under 10 yards. Other than that, lay down on your aero bars and GO!

2011-02-15T16:37:00.002-05:00

Tried out the trail today and found it rideable east of Leesburg all the way to Herndon. Some icy patches, with wide tracks through them, in the shady spots, especially from Rt. 659 west. Will be trying out west of Leesburg in the next few days; a couple of days ago there were still extensive snow/ice patches in the shady spots -- some with tracks through them and most without.

Two wheels good, three not so much fun

2011-02-13T16:30:00.003-05:00

First ride of the year on the trail, from Sandburg out to Cedar and then to Lee Hwy and back. OK for those on two wheels, but for those of use who have a bit wider track due to having two wheels in front like I do on the trike, there were a few spots where one of my front wheels was riding on the packed down ice & snow- a tad bumpy. Tracks are more than wide enough in all the places I rode for two wheelers. If the weather forecast holds for this week, it should all be gone by the end of the week. Saw a big Red-tailed Hawk swoop in to a tree in the middle of Falls Church right over a walkers head. Lots of people out on the trail.

Ice is melting but continued caution is appropriate

2011-02-11T14:49:00.002-05:00

Today I cycled from Falls Church to the west of Herndon. Ice remains on the trail but only 2 sections have place where extra caution is required--just west of Gallows Road and west of Cedar Lane. Otherwise the trail is either clear or cleared tracks are wide enough to use with relative safety. With warming temperatures these areas should soon melt.

Trail Conditions

2011-02-07T13:48:00.000-05:00

I cycled from Falls Church to Herndon. The trail was relatively free of ice except for sections between Gallows Road and Route 123 in Vienna, west of Hunter Mill, and east of Old Reston Ave where the trail passes the power substation and golf course. While much of these areas had a small clear path, a section west of Cedar Lane and the section at the power substation had places where a short walk was appropriate. Several places have overhanging branches and brush on the trail.

Conditions in Reston Area

2011-02-04T14:26:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I tried riding on the Trail from Wiehle Ave west. There are two narrow tire tracks left by the NVRPA vehicle that are mostly melted. It's a good test of bike handling skills to ride in the 8" or so track. However, there's still lots of ice in several sections even in the tire tracks, especially near the power lines near the old Sallie Mae building. At Old Reston Ave I gave up and rode along Sunset Hills Rd instead. On the return trip I started at the YMCA and headed east and was able to ride OK to Old Reston Ave. Knowing about the ice to the east of there I detoured along North Shore Dr back to Wiehle.

Today I drove along Hunter Mill Rd and where it crosses the trail it appears that there's a lot of clear trail to the east toward Vienna. The section to the west where it's shady is still ice-covered with some melting in the tire tracks. I'll be glad when NVRPA gets their new snow plow later this month.

Conditions?

2011-02-04T12:07:00.001-05:00

Anyone out there care to give a report of trail conditions as of February 4th?

Temporary closure west of Vienna

2011-01-25T13:47:00.000-05:00

Signs on the trail between Vienna and Hunter Mill Road indicate that the trail will be closed on Thursday, January 27, 2011 from 5:30 p.m. until 5:30 a.m. the next morning.

Trail Conditions

2011-01-19T13:17:00.002-05:00

Today, I cycled from Falls Church (mm7)to Trailside Park in Herndon (mm21). The trail was relatively free from ice. Some slush on trail just west of Gallows Rd and just west of Cedar Lane. The only serious ice issue was east of Old Reston Ave where the cedar tress screen Dominion Power's substation and shade the trail. There the ice was still solid and required cycling on the gravel portion of the trail.

Potomac River Run - 5K

2011-01-01T07:39:00.000-05:00

Date: Saturday January 1, 2011
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Location: Reston Town Center
Notes: January 1st Potomac River Running conducting a 5k on the trail from Reston Town Center down to Sallie Mae / American Dream Way bridge and returning to the Town Center. About 300 participants (maximum)

Trail mostly clear from Sunrise Valley Dr to Vienna

2010-12-28T16:25:00.000-05:00

We took a brief walk along the trail today near Sunrise Valley Dr and it appeared to be mostly clear. A cyclist coming from Vienna reported that it was clear from that direction. The photo at the right was taken just east of Sunrise Valley Dr where the trail is shaded. Even there a narrow clear area is present, where the NVRPA truck drove over the snow.

NOTICE for Dec 2 evening trail users!

2010-12-01T07:02:00.000-05:00

From the FABB Blog:

Open season December 2 - Fairfax County police will be conducting a "deer
culling" operation adjacent to the W&OD Trail at Clarks Crossing Road where the
soccer fields are located. According to signs posted there, the trail will be
closed on December 2 from 5pm to 5am. As we all know, the trail is officially
closed after dark but many people use it in the Fall and Winter for traveling
between Reston and Vienna.

For more information about the W&OD Trail see the W&OD Trail Report, the Friend
of the W&OD Trail site or the NVRPA W&OD Trail page.

Update - 12:30pm Nov. 30: I just spoke with a county wildlife biologist who
stated that the trail will be closed at 5pm on Dec. 2 and that police will be
using rifles to shoot deer in the area. Cyclists will not be able to get
through, from approximate Clarks Crossing Rd to Hunter Mill Rd. See the Fairfax
County bike map for alternate routes.

Labels: NVRPA, W and OD Trail
posted by Bruce Wright at 11:24 AM #

Trail reopens west of Leesburg

2010-11-30T11:17:00.000-05:00

The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA) is pleased to announce the two-mile stretch of the W&OD Trail between mile markers 36 and 38 west of Leesburg has been re-opened for public use.

This portion of the trail was closed to the public in December of 2009 to enable Dominion Virginia Power to install an underground transmission line. The Park Authority and Dominion worked together to ensure the trail would remain open during the year-long process by arranging the construction of a paved detour. The affected area started at milepost 36, approximately 3/5 of a mile west of the Route 7 trail crossing.

Trail repaving

2010-11-30T06:38:00.001-05:00

Beginning November 30th the trail will be repaved starting in the Isaac Newton / Private Drive section of Reston and heading east to Hunter Mill Road. Total time for this project will be approximately two weeks (assuming no weather issues). The trail will be detoured onto the horse trail and signs deployed alerting trail users. As time/funds permit other sections of the trail will be addressed as well. Future projects include paving from Hunter Mill down to Vienna Train station, paving west of Reston into Herndon, and a small stretch near Broad Run Bridge (mile marker 24.5) where the pavement is sloughing off.

Thanksgiving day 5k run

2010-11-22T08:19:00.000-05:00

Giving Thanks 5K Run

Date: Thursday November 25, 2010
Time: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
The run will have a maximum of 100 people. It will utilize the trail from Vienna Station to Clark's Crossing.

Construction on cut-through near Washington Blvd.

2010-10-19T07:49:00.003-05:00

Be advised that the cut-through that links the W&OD to 19th St. near East Falls Church has ripped up pavement, down to mud. Some have ridden through, but be prepared to dismount if conditions warrant.

Optimist Club Walk

2010-09-25T03:20:00.000-05:00

Date: Saturday September 25, 2010
Time: 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Vienna - Clark's Xing
Notes: Saturday September 25th the Vienna Optimist Club will conduct a walk from the Vienna Train Station / Caboose area out to Clark's Crossing Park and returning to the station/caboose. They will begin around 8 AM and conclude by 1 PM. There will be approximately 250 people for this event.

MS Capital Challenge Walk

2010-09-24T05:14:00.000-05:00

Date: Saturday September 25, 2010
Time: 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Vienna - Arlington
Notes: Saturday September 25th the MS Capitol Challenge Walk will be conducted from Vienna to Arlington from 6 AM to 4 PM. The MS walk will begin off of the trail and the MS folks will enter the trail around Park Street/Talahi Road area in Vienna and walk east and leave the trail in Arlington (Lee Highway area). There will be approximately 500 people for this event.

Tree work west of Leesburg

2010-08-31T10:03:00.000-05:00

Bartlett Tree Company will be out along the trail in the area from Purcellville to Loudoun County 4H Fairgrounds to cut down dead trees, broken branches, etc. They started yesterday and will finish by late next month (September). They have been educated in trail etiquette and will have signs/flagmen stationed to guide trail users around the work area. In some areas the entire trail will be blocked; in such instances trail traffic will be detoured onto the horse trail. Forward this email along as necessary and let me know if you have questions. Thanks,

Karl Mohle
Park Manager
W&OD Railroad Regional Park
21293 Smiths Switch Road
Ashburn, VA 20147
(703) 729-0596 - office
(703) 724-0898 - fax

Pacific Blvd. Bridge Dedication

2010-08-24T13:12:00.000-05:00

Date: Wednesday August 25, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Location: Pacific Blvd. Bridge over the Trail, just west of Rt 28.

Beltway Bridge Construction

2010-08-24T09:09:00.001-05:00

The NVPA reports: "As part of the Capital Beltway HOT Lanes project, the new W&OD Trail bridge over the Beltway is under construction on the north side of the existing trail bridge. The existing bridge and trail will remain open during construction. Currently, on both sides of the Beltway, bridge abutment walls are being constructed next to the existing bridge and trail. PLEASE USE CAUTION WHILE IN THESE WORK ZONES. The bridge beams are scheduled to be installed in October and the bridge deck is scheduled to be installed in November. Once the new bridge is open to trail users, the existing bridge will be removed."

Reston Bike Club Century

2010-08-19T06:52:00.000-05:00

Date: Sunday August 22, 2010
Time: 6:30 am - 5:30 pm

Location: eastbound W&OD Leesburg-Reston
Approximately 1200 riders start at Reston Town Center. The portion of the W&OD used for this event is from Grace Street in Herndon to Ashburn Road (westbound leg) and returning from Leesburg to Reston Town Center via trail in its entirety (eastbound leg).

WEATHER WARNING & INFORMATION

2010-07-26T14:16:00.000-05:00

The following information was provided by the Boy Scouts National Capitol Area Council thru the Trail Patrol

A heat advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible. Drink plenty of fluids... stay in an air-conditioned room... stay out of the sun... and check up on elderly relatives and neighbors. Never leave children or pets unaccompanied in a parked vehicle - even with the windows cracked. An excessive heat watch means that a prolonged period of hot temperatures is expected.

Watch for signs of dehydration! The simplest way to check for dehydration is to check urine color. It should be clear or very pale yellow. If it begins to darken in color, fluid intake should increase. (Note: If you've increased water intake -- but thirst, headache or other symptoms persist -- check with your doctor. It might simply be that a fluid containing electrolytes is needed to restore a normal balance. It could also be that some other underlying cause requires medical attention.) Remember: if you try to drink a large amount of water all at once, your kidneys will simply flush the excess fluid by sending you to the bathroom. It's better to drink regular amounts of fluid throughout the day. Each morning, pour the liquid you need to drink and make sure that by the end of the day, it's gone. That way, you won't forget how much you've already had.

Mild Dehydration: (increase fluid intake -- and for babies, call a medical professional): Thirst, dry lips, dry mouth, flushed skin, fatigue, irritability, headache, urine begins to darken in color, urine output decreases.
Moderate Dehydration: (call a medical professional): All of the signs of mild dehydration, plus: skin doesn't bounce back quickly when pressed, very dry mouth, sunken eyes, (in infant - sunken fontanel, the soft spot on the head), output of urine will be limited and color of urine will be dark yellow, cramps, stiff and/or painful joints, severe irritability, fatigue, severe headache.
Severe Dehydration: (call emergency number): All of the signs of mild and moderate dehydration, plus: blue lips, blotchy skin, confusion, lethargy, cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, rapid and weak pulse, low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, high fever, inability to pee or cry tears, disinterest in drinking fluid.

Signs of Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke

Experts say that adults with heat exhaustion should stop the activity, move into a cool environment, remove excess clothing and drink hydrating liquids (NOT coffee, tea, sodas or juice!). They say that adults with heatstroke, however, are suffering an emergency. Their body needs to be cooled with ice packs or immersion in cold water, and immediate and professional medical attention must be called. We say: Don't take chances. We believe that any sign of moderate to severe dehydration should be promptly attended to and medical professionals called -- especially in particularly vulnerable populations like babies, children, anyone with an illness, and seniors. If you're in doubt, please call for help. No competent medical professional will mind being called for help with a possible case of moderate to severe dehydration, heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Heat Cramps: brief but painful involuntary muscle spasms. They usually occur in the muscles being used during the exercise, and are a result of insufficient liquid intake
Heat Exhaustion: difficulty breathing, headache, feeling hot on head and neck, dizziness, heat cramps, chills, nausea, irritability, vomiting, extreme weakness or fatigue
Heatstroke: rapid and shallow breathing, rapid heartbeat, unusually high or low blood pressure, lack of sweating, mental confusion and disorientation, unconsciousness, physical collapse

Temporary closures in August

2010-07-24T04:02:00.001-05:00

DULLES CORRIDOR METRORAIL PROJECTIntermittent Closures of W&OD Trail Expected Early August as Rail Bridge Construction AcceleratesThe section of the Washington and Old Dominion Trail beneath the Dulles International Airport Access Highway and the Dulles Toll Road near Reston will be closed for short periods during several weeks in August.The closings are necessary because Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project construction crews will be ramping up work on the new bridge that will carry the rail tracks, which will run in the median of the airport and toll roads, over the trail. Crews have been working on the bridge for several months and trail users have encountered some detours.During the first week of August, crews will start site preparations for hanging and placing large steel girders on the ridge over the trail. The girder placements are currently scheduled to begin on or about Tuesday, Aug. 10.The steel girder erection work will be done during daytime hours because there are overhead power lines at this work site that would be difficult for workers to see at night.The trail will only close temporarily when the steel girders are lifted and installed. Closures are executed to last approximately 15 minutes or less for each girder.The affected section is located between Wiehle Avenue and Hunter Mill Road, where it crosses under the Dulles International Airport Access Highway (DIAAH) near the trail's mile marker 16. Because the future Metrorail line will run down the median of the DIAAH, this bridge is being built to support the tracks over the W&OD Trail.After the erection work is completed, crews will be building the bridge itself. Most of that work will be done at night and will require full closures of the trail. A schedule will be released later this fall and the work is expected to be completed before Thanksgiving.

Ride to Provid--Sunday July 18

2010-07-14T07:25:00.000-05:00

Opening ceremony is at 11:00 at the Reston Town Center . The 35 mile ride leaves at 11:15 and the 20 mile leave at 11:30. Rides will be going from Reston to Columbia Pike and back or some portion thereof.

Civil War Hike--July 17, 2010

2010-07-14T07:23:00.000-05:00

Civil War hike from Wiehle Avenue to Hunter Mill Road. About a dozen participants from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Friends of the W&OD 10K –July 31, 2010

2010-07-13T06:59:00.000-05:00

On the W&OD Trail from Old Vienna Train Station to Hunter Mill Road & back
6:30 pm – 10K –Run or walk

6:31 pm – Baby Stroller Division non-competitive 10K

Attack on Trail

2010-06-26T11:55:00.002-05:00

There was evidently an attack on a female runner on the trail today west of the 22.5 marker in Sterling. The attacker was described as wearing a Motley Crue t-shirt and having both a ponytail and a goatee. Police were notified.

Sinkhole at Brandymore Castle

2010-06-08T09:28:00.000-05:00

There's a sinkhole on the W&OD trail at Brandymore Castle, east of East Falls Church, in Arlington. The hole is on the east side of the hill and has been marked by cones.

Arlington Parks and Rec is aware of the situation. There's been maintenance work on the lights along that stretch of trail over the last few months but no word if that's the cause.

Stay safe.

May 21 (Friday) Bike to Work Day

2010-05-15T05:02:00.002-05:00

Note that the trail will be exceptionally busy with cyclists on Friday, May 21st. Cyclist will be gathering at "pit stops" along the trail. These are located in Leesburg, Sterling, Herndon, Reston, and Vienna. Also, cyclists may be riding in large groups. While the Bike To Work event is scheduled from 6:30 am to 9 a.m. heavy use will continue throughout the day as cyclists make return trips after work.

Recently Paved Section in Falls Church Park

2010-05-11T08:49:00.002-05:00

Recent work paving the section of the W&OD in Falls Church Park between N.Van Buren St and the N.Sycamore extension has completed, leaving smooth fresh asphalt in place of what used to be quite a bumpy ride.

Avian Sights & Sounds

2010-05-04T10:52:00.002-05:00

Lots of folks out on the trail for a Tuesday morning. Heard or saw following birds: Baltimore Orioles, Red-shouldered Hawks, White-eyed Vireo, Catbird (carring nesting material), Robins, Goldfinches, Indigo Buntings.

Message from Trail Manager

2010-05-01T18:55:00.000-05:00

The staff here at the trail is gradually working our way along the trail to pick up the branches left over from the winter snows. We've been busy mowing in the meantime. When the weather is a little rainy we head out to pick up the branches. The majority of the branches have been picked up, though there are a couple of areas in Falls Church and sections west (like Simpson Circle) that remain. Thanks,Karl MohlePark ManagerW&OD Railroad Regional Park21293 Smiths Switch RoadAshburn, VA 20147(703) 729-0596 - office(703) 724-0898 - fax

On the road again

2010-04-21T08:03:00.002-05:00

Out patrolling yesterday- seem like Spring is almost over and Summer is sneaking in. Most wildflowers are already past the blooming stage. Wild Pinkster Azaleas in full bloom along trail near Hunter Station Road and perfuming the path. Skunk Cabbage has reached full growth several weeks early along Difficult Run. Saw first Brown Thrasher of the year fly across the path and dive into the bushes. Construction for Metro extension has got paved trail west of Toll Road torn up and traffic diverted to bridle path, which has been re-graveled (is this a word?) and well tamped down. Looked like crew was ready to lay asphalt down as Jeff and I went back east after turning around. Traffic on trail was very light for a beautiful Spring day- hardly anyone out.

Trail Event

2010-04-19T07:45:00.002-05:00

Please note the following event will concentrate large numbers of trail users.

Saturday April 24, 2010

Paul's Ride for Life begins at Reston Town Center and heads west for 10 & 30 mile options between mile markers 10 and 25. http://paulsrideforlife.org/

2010 Bike Show Featuring Extraordinary Rides (Reminder)

2010-04-07T20:48:00.000-05:00

Just one last reminder, and thanks to John for letting me post these.

Just a reminder that the Phoenix Bikes' 2010 Bike Show is tomorrow, April 8 at 7pm. It's a great time for a great cause, no spandex required.

Tickets are $20 now, $25 at the door. Further details below.

Buy tickets here

Event Details
WHO: You, your friends, family, and Phoenix Bikes
WHAT: The Bike Show featuring - Extraordinary Rides
WHERE: NRECA (National Rural Electric Cooperative Association) 4301 Wilson Blvd, Arlington VA
WHEN: APRIL 8, 2010 from 7-9pm
HOW: Get here by Bike, Metro, Foot or Auto (bike parking available)

More info here

See you at the show!!

Trail Patrol Seeks New Members

2010-04-06T05:24:00.002-05:00

Any responsible adult of any physical ability who walks, runs, skates, skis, cycles, rides a wheelchair, sits astride a horse, pushes a carriage, or just strolls on the trail is welcome to become a trail patrol member. The Patrol operates under the sponsorship of the Friends of the W&OD, whose purpose is to support and enhance the Trail. The basic responsibilities of a patrol member are to: (1) Promote the safe use of the Trail (2) Provide information about the Trail to the public(3) Assist Trail users when help is needed. Volunteers should be willing to commit a few hours each month to the Patrol's on-going effort to keep the W&OD Trail safe, to maintain and, hopefully augment the luster of this bright jewel of the region. Volunteers may choose to serve on the trail or behind the scenes in support of the patrol -- or both. Even a small contribution of your flexibly arranged time will be helpful, and the experience should be both rewarding and fun. If you wish to help in these capacities there is a role you can perform.For further information please contact the W&OD Trail Office at (703) 729-0596 or WOD@nvrpa.org. To apply on line go to www.wodfriends.org and go to the trail patrol tab.

Trail work

2010-04-05T14:12:00.000-05:00

Notice from Town of Herndon
On Monday we will close SB lanes on Van Buren St. (see attached news release) for approximately 6-8 weeks. There will be one line of traffic crossing the trail in each direction (see MOT). Pedestrian signal will be turned off for the duration of closure and temporary stop signs installed for the trail users. We anticipate the town contractor to mobilize in mid April. http://www.herndon-va.gov/Content/Town_Services/Streets/Street_Closures_Detours/default.aspx?cnlid=2108

Arlington Flasher Update

2010-03-24T05:16:00.000-05:00

Subject: ARLINGTON COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS RELEASE: Arlington Police Advise Bike Trail SafetyFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 23, 2010MEDIA CONTACT: Det. Crystal Nosal, 703 228-4331; 571 221-1492Arlington Police Advise Bike Trail Safety;Indecent exposure suspect still at largeARLINGTON, Va. - The Arlington County Police Department's Special Victim's Unit is investigating eleven incidents of indecent exposure that have occurred periodically since mid-January 2010, on the Washington and Old Dominion bike trail. A white male subject has been exposing himself to woman at various sections along the bike trail. Detectives are looking for more information from the public regarding these exposures.Anyone who uses the W & OD Bike trail and observes any suspicious activity is asked to contact police. Police have significantly increased patrols on the bike paths. They also urge people who frequently spend time on bike trails and other secluded areas to be cautious and aware of their surroundings. Women should avoid walking or running alone, and they are encouraged not to use devices such as headphones that prevent hearing someone approach. Police recommend that bike trail users carry cell phones so that they can call police as soon as incidents occur. People should report anyone observed acting in a manner not consistent with other bike trail users, such as loitering in the wooded areas, as suspicious behavior.Anyone with any information about this case is asked to contact Detective Comer at (703) 228-4243 or Detective Austin at (703) 228-4241.Detective Crystal L. Nosal #1187Media Relations/Legislative AffairsArlington County Police Department1425 N. Courthouse RoadArlington, VA 22201703-228-4331cnosal@arlingtonva.us

Phoenix Bikes 2010 Bike Show

2010-03-23T17:31:00.000-05:00

This doesn't really have anything to do with the W&OD Trail but its a fun bike-related event for a good cause. Also, the Phoenix Bikes shop is right off the W&OD trail at 4200 S Four Mile Run Dr, so it's kinda related. (Full Disclosure: I am a volunteer with Phoenix Bikes and am on the 2010 Bike Show marketing committee)

Phoenix Bikes, a non-profit bike shop in Arlington, is holding their third annual Bike Show on April 8th, 2010 and they would like to invite you, your friends, and your family to come out and take part.

The event will include an art show, a silent auction, a raffle for awesome swag (like free bikes donated by local shops and other goodies), and speeches by local movers and shakers in the bike world. Plus, there will be plenty of free food and libations to go around.

The Bike Show is a celebration of bikes and bike culture and every year Phoenix Bikes chooses a theme as the focus of their celebration. This year the show will highlight “Extraordinary Rides” experienced by riders from the DC Metropolitan area.

There will be seven rides featured. In one, a cyclist biked across Southern Sudan to help treat the crippling effects caused by the Guinea worm. In another, three women biked from DC to Montreal to learn about community gardens and to make a documentary film on the issue. As part of the event, local artists will display artwork inspired by these and other Extraordinary Rides.

Tickets are $20 per person and two raffle tickets are included with the purchase.

You can buy tickets or find out more about the show here.

And if the promise of free booze, food, and prizes isn't enough entice you, here are some more highlights:

Special guests at the show will include: Chris Eatough, a six-time 24-hour Solo world champion mountain biker and the Director of Bike Arlington; Eric Gilliland, outgoing Executive Director of the Washington Area Bicycle Association and newly appointed Executive Director of the National Association of City Transportation Officials; and Jay Fisette, Chairman of the Arlington County Board and passionate cycling supporter. Jay will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the show.

Some items up for auction include: an R.E.Load Bag, jackets from Patagonia, Swobo cycling apparel, free admission to Madame Toussands, a One-year free membership at Arlington County fitness centers, a family package bike tour of Mount Vernon from Bike and Roll, and dozens of gift certificates from local and national companies. And there is still have more stuff coming in!

So if you're interested, make sure to buy your tickets early.

More info on Phoenix Bikes can be found here.

Event Details
WHO: You, your friends, family, and Phoenix Bikes
WHAT: The Bike Show featuring - Extraordinary Rides
WHERE: NRECA (National Rural Electric Cooperative Association) 4301 Wilson Blvd, Arlington VA
WHEN: APRIL 8, 2010 from 7-9pm
HOW: Get here by Bike, Metro, Foot or Auto (bike parking available)

Trail work west of route 28

2010-03-23T05:20:00.000-05:00

PACIFIC BOULEVARD EXTENSION ACROSS W&OD TRAILBEGINNING TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2010WEATHER PERMITTING• From 9:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. April 6th – 8th, trail traffic can expect flagging operations and intermittent stoppages (30 minutes or less) as crews erect bridge beams for the Pacific Boulevard Extension over the Washington & Old Dominion Trail. The future overpass and trail connection for Pacific Boulevard is about 1/8 mile west of the W&OD trail bridge over Route 28.• On weekdays throughout the months of April, May and June, trail traffic should expect flagging operations and intermittent stoppages (no longer than 10 minutes) for construction on the bridge deck. • During construction of the bridge, no access will be provided between the W&OD Trail and existing Pacific Boulevard to the south.• In observance of Bike-to-Work Day on Friday, May 21, 2010, no construction will be performed that would interrupt trail traffic.On behalf of the project team, we appreciate your cooperation during construction and look forward to a major improvement in traffic congestion and public safety once the project is complete.For more project information, visit www.virginiadot.org.

Oh what a great day to cycle

2010-03-16T13:31:00.004-05:00

I started at route 28 and headed west. I wanted to experience the "horrible" bypass that was put in just west of Leesburg to accommodate work by Dominion Power. Well, the bypass is probably as hilly and twisty as you have heard BUT, I liked it. It made cycling that section more interesting and fun. I suppose if you want to pound out the miles on your drops you will not like the bypass; but that is not me. Anyway the trail is in good shape all the way to Paeonian Springs where I turned around.

Flasher Incident on W&OD near Bluemont Junction

2010-03-09T12:23:00.000-05:00

From Arlington Now:

A man exposed himself to a jogger on a section of the W&OD trail near Ashlawn Elementary School Sunday morning. Arlington police are investigating whether this incident is related to a series of five indecent exposures that occurred in January.

In this latest incident, a woman was running on the trail around 9:15 a.m. when a man exposed himself, according to police. The man was wear a ski mask over his face at the time. He’s described as a white male, between 5′8″ and 5′10″ with a slim build.

Police are asking anyone with any information about the case to call Detective Comer at (703) 228-4243 or Detective Austin at (703) 228-4241.

Trail Conditions

2010-03-08T17:33:00.002-05:00

Got out today on trike for first ride of year on trail between Gallows and Hunter Mill- looked pretty good- one or two narrow spots because of piles of snow, but with the next few days weather forecast that won't be a problem. It was interesting feeling the temp. drop a few degrees when next to the snow. Very few people out today- more runners than bikers. Daffodils near Hunter Mill up about 7" and budded, heard first Towhee of the year calling.

Dirck

Falls Church/ North Arlington Update

2010-03-06T10:15:00.000-05:00

I guess somebody with a plow reads this blog:

All trail obstructions I discussed on Monday, including lingering ice/ snow patches, downed trees, etc, have been cleared. The trail between Gallows Rd in Vienna and S. Walter Reed Dr. in Arlington is completely clear and ready to use. Thanks to whoever took it upon themselves to plow/ clear that stretch.

Also, the last of the construction equipment on the east end of the Rt. 7 bridge has been cleared and the bridge at Little Falls Rd has also been refurbished and is back in action.

The temp is going to get up to a down-right balmy 50 today and (dare I say it?) might even reach 60 tomorrow. Light winds expected all weekend. Welcome to Spring folks, now get out there and ride!

Route 7 overpass in Falls Church

2010-03-05T07:36:00.002-05:00

The resurfacing has been completed and both the east and west bound lanes are open . However, some of the construction equipments still needs to be removed--most importantly is the dumpster that blocks part of the trail on the east side of the bridge.