Trail users should be aware of an upcoming temporary closure on the Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail in Loudoun County while critical safety repairs are completed.
According to Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NOVAParks), a half-mile section of the W&OD Trail between Pacific Boulevard and Loudoun County Parkway in Ashburn will close beginning March 9 and is expected to remain closed until mid-April.
The closure is necessary so crews can conduct emergency repairs to the Broad Run Bridge. A recent safety inspection found loose boards on the bridge that could pose a hazard to trail users. To address the issue, the bridge surface will be replaced over the course of roughly six weeks, with NOVAParks aiming to reopen the trail before the busy spring riding season begins.
No Official Detour Available
NOVAParks reported that they attempted to coordinate with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to establish an official detour route. Unfortunately, that request was declined, meaning there will not be a signed alternate route around the closure.
Trail users should plan their rides accordingly and be prepared to turn around or transport around the closed section.
Parking Options During the Closure
Although the trail segment will be closed, nearby parking areas will remain open for riders who want to access portions of the trail on either side of the repair zone.
East of the closure:
- Pacific Boulevard parking lot
- 21695 Pacific Boulevard, Ashburn, VA
West of the closure:
- Hampshire Park / Smith Switch parking lot, 21315 Smith Switch Rd., Ashburn, VA
- Parking lot across from Carolina Brothers Pit Barbecue, 20694 Ashburn Rd., Ashburn, VA
- Jackpit Lane parking lot, 42998 Jackpit Lane, Ashburn, VA
Signs will be posted along the trail to inform users of the closure near the bridge.
Why These Repairs Matter
The W&OD Trail is one of the most heavily used trails in the region and a vital corridor for recreation, commuting, and long-distance cycling across Northern Virginia. Ensuring the safety and reliability of bridges and other infrastructure along the trail is essential to keeping the network accessible to everyone.
While closures are inconvenient, these repairs will help ensure the trail remains safe for the thousands of people who use it every week.
For project updates and additional details, visit: novaparks.com/BroadRunBridge.
If you regularly ride the W&OD Trail through Ashburn, please help spread the word so other riders can plan ahead.
