Parking: Lot E

Parking Lot E 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, Picnic Table, Trailhead

Lot E provides access to the Mary Byrd Branch Trail, Lake One Road (hike and bike), and the Quantico Cascades Trail. This lot accommodates 10 vehicles and has several picnic tables.  

The Mary Byrd Branch Trail is marked with red blazes and is a moderate .5-mile trail. It is across the road from the parking area and heads down through the woods to Mary Byrd Branch, a tributary of Quantico Creek. The trail and stream are named for a highly respected, strong-willed woman who lived in this area in the 1800s. Beyond the stream, the trail meets Old Black Top Road, which connects with other trails near the Turkey Run Ridge Area. Near the stream, look for signs of beaver activity such as gnawed stumps, downed trees, and dams. 

Head through the picnic area and follow the yellow blazes to take the Quantico Cascades Trail. This .7-mile trail joins Lake One Road for a short distance. The trail then heads off to the right and winds through pines and oaks along a ridge before descending to a series of cascades tumbling over rocks in Quantico Creek. Return the same way or circle back to the trail via North Valley Trial. 

A moderately difficult, 4-mile, self-guiding route begins at the Dinosaurs and Volcanoes exhibit on Quantico Cascades Trail and follows the North Valley Trail south along Quantico Creek to the Cabin Branch Pyrite Mine Site. You may return to the Scenic Drive along Pyrite Mine Road. 

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. 

When biking, 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.