This is a fantastic running trail particularly near Arlington and Crystal City. You can take a side trip over one of the bridges to the National Mall, run the mall and cross back over to the trail at another bridge. Running this trail never gets old!
This trail is incredible - will-maintained, and incredibly scenic. I use the stretch of trail by Reagan Nat'l Airport during the weekdays and it's well-used by joggers, walkers and bikers, all peacefully sharing. It goes for miles in both directions and feels like a very safe trail.
As a bicycle commuter in Northern Virginia this trail is a life-saver. It's 18 miles from Theodore Roosevelt Island in the Potomac and goes by Reagan National Airport all the way to Mt Vernon which is the Virginia plantation of George Washington, America's first President and Revolutionary War General. Great for a walk, run, inline skating, and dog-walk as well.The trail is some what tricky to follow as it passes through Alexandria because there are actually two route choices, both of which are on street. The more popular route is along the waterfront, via Union Street. There are several shops and restaurant around the King Street intersection. However, some may find that North Royal Street provides a more direct route. Either street route is quite bicycle friendly.
The trail leads to Mt. Vernon, the Virginia plantation of out first President, General George Washington. It was purchased and restored by the Mt. Vernon Ladies Garden Club in the mid 1800's and its preservation/restoration continues today. The site offers a good example of a working plantation and gentleman/scholars attempt to improve agricultural practices, animal husbandry, general living conditions, as well as present a grand house on a grand site. Tour guides are informative and provide insight into the daily operations of a plantation owned by George Washington. It is well worth the visit, especially on a lovely, sunny day as you get a feel for what life was like in the 1700's.
It's a nice drive getting there. The tour is worth taking because there is so much to do and see in the property. It will take approximately 2-3 hours if you take your time.
Along with the visit to Washington ,DC and Arlington Cemetery, we took our Grandson, on a paddle boat trip down to Mt. Vernon.The boat ride both ways, was very enjoyable, and the grounds at Mt.Vernon were both a great experience to see and be able to strol around at leisure.The line to see Mt. Vernon Homestead can be a little long, but does mover fairly fast. Another well worth the time to spend the day exploring.My wife and I are looking forward to again this year take one of our Grand children to Visit Washington, DC, and this is a must stop for us. The kids weren't board, and they learned a lot of history, and I think appreciatedf how much easier we have it now.
Nice trail from Mt. Vernon to DC along the Potomac River; mostly flat; lots of bikes and runners from early morning to dark.
I love running along here. I love biking along here. There are several places to get on and off. Just go early if you want to avoid the crowds.
Bycycled the MVT from Olde Towne Alexandria to Arlington Cemetary and stopped at the Pentagon Memorial on the way back. Rode on a Saturday morning - lots of people out walking, running and biking. Most knew the rules of the road - but had to be on alert most of the way. About a 45 minute easy ride to Arlington Cemetary, a little tricky getting to the 9/11 Memorial from the trail, but found our way. Would be better to bike in not peak days/times.
Stayed in Arlington and ran to all of the monuments. A little confusing with the bridges but great views and not crowded at all. Would not run at night as there is not much foot traffic.