W&OD Trail, Western Section (ODH Training Hike 14)

This is an out-and-back hike on the western portion of the 45-mile W&OD Trail. The trail was once the Washington & Old Dominion (hence, the acronym) Railroad that ran from Alexandria to Bluemont, at the foot of the Blue Ridge, from 1859 to 1968! Unlike the eastern, suburban end, the western end of this trail passes through some particularly attractive pastoral areas. Here are some photos from 2013. (Seems like yesterday.)

Starting from the trail parking lot in Ashburn (mile marker 27.5), you may do anywhere from 19 miles (very difficult) by going to MM30 and back, or 35 miles (pain in the feet and elsewhere) by going to the end at MM45 and back. If you do less than 19 miles, that's OK too. It’s perfect for ODH training in that you can gauge exactly where you are in your regimen.

Much of our route has an adjacent gravel trail. Although meant primarily for horses, you may enjoy walking on it more than its paved counterpart…but watch where you step. The end of the trail in Purcellville and has the conveniently located Sweet Rose Bakeshop, full of goodies. Keep a nostril out for the aroma as you get closer.

TRAIL MAPS & INFORMATION:
Here are some links that you may find helpful: ArcGIS map, Bike Washington section map, a bit of history, and Friends of W&OD overview and section maps.

WHEN & WHERE:
We'll meet at 8 AM at the W&OD Trail's parking lot, which is just north of the trail off the east side of Ashburn Road. Look for the sign shown in the photo above. You may use the Carolina Brothers Pit Barbeque (also shown in the photo above) in your GPS for directions, but the trail's parking lot is just north of that on the east side of Ashburn Rd. Do NOT park in the restaurant's parking lot.

WHAT TO BRING:
Bring food and drink, or $$ to buy on the way. You’ll proceed at your own pace and you may stop (or not) anytime to eat. This hike occurs rain or shine, cold or warm, so dress appropriately. However, in case of hazardous weather, please check here for last-minute changes before leaving for the hike.

LEADERS: Mike Darzi (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com, 301-580-9387) and Ellen Hill (EllenWHill@Gmail.com, 703-994-9493)

ONE DAY HIKE:
Although open to all, this training hike is part of a series of Saturday training hikes leading up to the One Day Hike (ODH)—100 or 50 km along the C&O Canal—on May 3, 2025. See SCPRO’s Meetup page for other training hikes as they are posted. If you would like to support the ODH, see volunteering opportunities and/or contact Mike Darzi (Mike.Darzi@Gmail.com). For official updates regarding training hikes, registration, and other information, join the ODH email list by sending a blank email to **OneDayHike+Subscribe@Groups.io**.

SCPRO DONATION:
A voluntary donation of $2 or more per event is appreciated. You may donate in cash at the event or via PayPal to ECommerce@SierraPotomac.org using "For friends and family” as payment type.

You may join the Sierra Club by clicking "JOIN" on the Virginia Chapter's website.