On and Off Road Biking

Biking is one of the most popular recreational activities at Prince William Forest Park

NPS photo

For the on and off road cyclist, Prince William Forest Park is a favorite place for bicyclists. Over 12 miles of paved roads and 9.2 miles of gravel roads are available. Descriptions of individual road conditions and levels of difficulty are available for you to plan your visit.

Three miles of the park Scenic Drive are a dedicated bike lane providing a paved, relatively flat surface ideal for beginning bicyclists. More experienced cyclists with mountain bikes have the option of off-road biking on any of the ten fire roads in the park.

Bicycle racks are located at Pine Grove Picnic Area, Turkey Run Education Center parking lot, and Oak Ridge Campground. Bikes are not to be left unattended unless in designated bike racks. Locking bikes to trees and structures is prohibited.

 

Electric Bicycles

In an effort to make parks more accessible for all individuals, the National Park Service has approved the use of electric bicycles (e-bikes). E-bikes have become an increasingly popular form of recreation and are now allowed for use in national parks. The intent of this action is to address an emerging technology in a manner that accommodates visitors and increases opportunities for the public to recreate within and travel through the National Park System, while at the same time protecting the resources and values that draw millions of visitors each year.

E-bikes fall under the same park policies and safety guidelines as manual bicycles.

 

Rules and Regulations

Bicycles are allowed on paved roads as well as designated unpaved "fire roads." Bicycling is prohibited on all hiking trails and in the Chopawamsic Backcountry Area for the safety of hikers and to prevent trail degradation.

• Respect and do not disturb wildlife.
• Riders must obey all traffic regulations including speed limits posted within the park.
• Riders must ride single file when using paved roads.
• Use caution when overtaking others and make your presence known well in advance.
• Bicycles are only allowed on paved roads and fire roads only, not on hiking trails.

Note: This is only a guide and is not all inclusive. Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations is applicable to the park. For further information, please contact the park's visitor center at 703-221-7181.

 

Safety

Bicycling is done at the visitor's own risk. The following is a list of necessary precautions:

• Bring along a park map when riding.

• Be aware of changing weather conditions.

• Check your brakes and tire pressure before riding.

• Bring along plenty of water and be sure to drink it.

• Helmets are required.

• Be aware of fallen tree debris and ice on all roads and trails.

• Always yield to hikers and other non-motorized recreationalists.

• Maintain control of your speed at all times and observe park speed limits and stop signs.