On October 26, 2025, for Parish’s birthday, we ventured out to the Mt. Vernon Trail.

If you’re looking for the best way to soak in the beauty and history of the Washington D.C. area without getting stuck in traffic, the Mount Vernon Trail is an absolute must-do. This 18-mile paved multi-use path is much more than just a bike route—it’s a scenic and historical artery that connects some of the region’s most iconic landmarks.

The Trail Snapshot

• Length: 18 miles (one way)
• Surface: Paved, multi-use (perfect for biking, running, and walking)
• Route: Stretches from Theodore Roosevelt Island in the north all the way down to George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate in the south.
• Connection: It effortlessly links Arlington County and the City of Alexandria with Fairfax County, and provides easy access to major Potomac River bridge crossings into D.C.

Uninterrupted Views and Historic Stops

The real magic of the Mount Vernon Trail lies in its incredible scenery. As the trail winds alongside the Potomac River, you are treated to uninterrupted views of the Washington, D.C. skyline, including the monuments and memorials across the water. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially around sunrise or sunset!

Getting Out There

Whether you’re a serious cyclist, a casual runner, or just looking for a long, scenic walk, the trail is open year-round, generally from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (though commuters may use it anytime). We decided to park at the Visitor Center at Mt. Vernon and head to Old Town Alexandria, VA, for lunch and to explore the vibrant city and do some shopping. We gathered some ideas for our oyster ornament craft for Christmas and purchased the necessary items.

A word of caution, though: this trail is a critical regional transportation link, hosting over a million users annually. The section north of Alexandria is one of the most heavily used multi-use trails in the country. If you visit during peak hours, be prepared to share the path and practice good trail etiquette.

Pro Tip for Travelers: The trail is highly accessible. You can easily reach it via a short ride or walk from several Metro stations, including Arlington Cemetery, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, and Rosslyn. For those driving, parking is available at most sites along the route.

If you want a truly immersive way to experience the nation’s capital region, pack your sneakers or rent a bike—the Mount Vernon Trail is the perfect route for adventure and history wrapped into one scenic 18-mile ribbon.

We decided to dine at Union Street Public House, which offered a mix of typical pub food and a brunch selection. We sat outside and enjoyed people watching. We happened to be there on a day that Alexandria was celebrating its furry friends for Halloween. We got to see a lot of dogs dressed up and being walked around by their beloved family. Our area for brunch was quiet in comparison to what we found around the corner and on Main Street in Old Town. They have it blocked off like a plaza, with many dining options and festivities, along with local shops. They also have a wharf, a waterfront area with shops, grassy areas for relaxation, and local music.

We did not continue north on the trail. We rode our 10 miles back to the visitor center and headed home. Traffic on the way home was more challenging. We agreed that if we had more time and resources, we would spend the night and complete the second part of the trail the next day. We left our house at 8:30 a.m. and returned at 8:00 p.m. that evening. You can do this in a day from Richmond, VA.

*Of note: They have limited bike racks, but a local bike shop noted we could lock our bikes to a sign or light pole without issue.