The George Washington Memorial Parkway released a study focused on conditions and safety on the Mount Vernon Trail. The study is very lengthy and the Friends of the Mount Vernon Trail will post an analysis in the near future. The press release from GWMP is below:

McLean, Va. — The National Park Service (NPS) is working on long-term plans to improve trails and opportunities for recreation near the George Washington Memorial Parkway. The park recently completed the Mount Vernon Trail Corridor Study and the Georgetown Pike Footpath Feasibility Study in collaboration with transportation partners and stakeholders. These studies are the first steps towards future trail improvements.   

The NPS will continue to review these recommendations and will work with park neighbors and transportation partners to decide whether or how to adopt them. Any actions could require additional public review and environmental and historic preservation compliance prior to implementation. 

“The trail network of the George Washington Memorial Parkway connects visitors to recreational areas, historic sites and communities across the national capital region,” Superintendent Charles Cuvelier said. “These studies set the stage for improvements to visitor experiences and increased trail connectivity along the parkway.”  

The Mount Vernon Trail Study address current trail use. maintenance conditions and future needs along the 18-mile paved trail. It identifies opportunities to make improvements including: 

• Replacing bridges. 
• Changing trail routes. 
• Rehabilitating trails. 
• Adding, replacing, or improving signs or pavement makings. 
• Updating trail maintenance. 

Approximately 1 million people use the Mount Vernon Trail for recreation and transportation each year. The trail links attractions like George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Theodore Roosevelt Island and connects Fairfax County, the City of Alexandria, Arlington County and the District of Columbia. 

Through the Georgetown Pike Footpath Feasibility Study, the NPS found that it is possible to build a new trail near Georgetown Pike in McLean, Virginia. If constructed, this trail would connect the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail to Great Falls Park in Virginia as well as local neighborhoods. Construction of the trail is dependent on additional factors including stakeholder involvement, cost, visitor experience, safety, visual impacts and ease of construction. Implementation in Great Falls Park could occur over time as funds become available.