This fall, Northern Virginia’s trail network is turning into a playground for curious minds and active families. From October 1 through November 30, the NOVA Loop Trail Puzzle Hunt invites you to combine the joy of biking with the thrill of solving clever puzzles—all while exploring one of the region’s most scenic trail systems.
Organized by Fairfax County’s Department of Transportation and powered by the creative minds at Solving Fun, the puzzle hunt transforms the 70-mile NOVA Loop Trail into an interactive adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, weekend walker, or just looking for a fun family outing, this free community event is designed to get people moving, thinking, and connecting.
A Trail for All
The NOVA Loop Trail links several of Northern Virginia’s most popular multi-use trails, including the W&OD, Four Mile Run, Mount Vernon, and Fairfax County Parkway Trails. Its seamless connections and Metro-accessible entry points make it a perfect venue for all kinds of participants—from dedicated riders to families with young children.
But this isn’t just a scenic ride. The Puzzle Hunt adds a whole new layer of excitement. Participants will work together to solve a series of nine unique puzzles. Each one unlocks the next trail segment, encouraging exploration and discovery along the way. You can tackle one segment or all nine—it’s up to you!
What to Expect
You’ll encounter puzzles that challenge your wordplay, logic, and reasoning skills. Each correct solution leads to a physical location on the trail, where you’ll find a clue that contributes to a meta-puzzle—a final challenge that ties the whole adventure together.
The experience combines outdoor fun with satisfying mental challenges. Plus the hunt will introduce you to places you probably have never been.
Beyond the fun, the Puzzle Hunt encourages us all to embrace active transportation, appreciate our public spaces, and spend meaningful time outdoors with family and friends. It’s the kind of community event that reflects what FABB is all about—celebrating our trail network and encouraging sustainable, healthy transportation choices.
So grab your bikes, gather your puzzle-loving pals, and get ready for a fall full of fun, discovery, and trail-side triumphs!
Again, the NOVA Loop Trail Puzzle Hunt launches October 1:
- Learn more and join the hunt.
- Explore the trail map.
- Don’t miss it!
Want to do more to promote biking and active transportation in Fairfax County? Contact us at [email protected].
