Parking: Lot D

Parking Lot D at Prince William Forest Park

NPS / Claire Hassler

Quick Facts

Location:

Scenic Drive

Designation:

Parking Lot

Amenities

4 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Parking - Auto, Trailhead, Wheelchair Accessible

Lot D provides access to North Orenda Road and Pyrite Mine Road, which are both hike and bike trails. The paved accessible hike or bike lane along the Scenic Drive also begins here and continues until Oak Ridge Road. This lot accommodates about 20 vehicles and also has a dog waste station. North of Lot D, the Scenic Drive becomes one-way for motor vehicles going north. 

When biking in the park, be sure to stay on designated biking trails. Ride in single file on paved roads, obey all traffic regulations and yield to pedestrians. When overtaking others, be cautious and provide advance warning of your presence. Additional safety tips: wear a helmet and gloves, check your brakes and tire pressure, watch for debris, control your speed, carry water and a park map, and be aware of changing weather conditions. 

From this parking lot, you can also cross Scenic Drive to hike the Pyrite Mine Road and follow the orange blazes of Cabin Branch Mine Trail. You will pass a series of concrete foundations and capped mineshafts. On the north side of Quantico Creek, follow the trail and boardwalk to a large viewing platform. Look across to the hillside where the mine’s headframe building once stood. Cabin Branch Mine was one of Virginia’s largest pyrite mines. Return to this location via Pyrite Mine Road. The loop totals 1.5 miles. 

Watch your step for tree stumps and slippery rocks. Check yourself periodically for ticks. Keep your pets on a leash and do not feed wildlife. Do not disturb or remove any plants, animals, or historic features.