My off-road adventures continue with Prince William Forest Park, which is part of the National Park System. It is located off I- 95, just north of Quantico Marine Corps Base.

I first heard of this park when I was new to this area, but it was mentioned as a great place for cycling. In fact, a friend of mine had a spectacular wreck there. I did not realize how many trails there are until two summers ago when I stopped in on my way back from Richmond to break up the monotonous drive. Cyclists primarily use the scenic drive where there is a dedicated lane for about 50% of the road. It is approximately 12 miles around, with at least one good hill on it.

The trail system is massive. Most trails are accessible from any of the parking lots. Each trail has a map at its entrance. I have found it helpful to check in at the visitor's center and consult the notebook that has various combinations of the trails with the mileage already worked out.

A word to the wise though, trail running requires many skills, including flexibility. I am not just referring to muscular flexibility. The trails are marked, but sometimes not as clearly as you would like. I have been known to run farther (got lost in a confusing loop section) or shorter than planned due to navigational errors. But hey, that's okay. One of the best reasons for running in the woods is to forget rigid standards and mindlessly pounding out the miles. Off-road is always an adventure.

Here are some additional suggestions if you are considering trying out this or other wooded trails. Bring water with you, whether you carry it or wear one of the belt/harness bottles. Use bug spray. Wear eye covering of some kind. I know I cleared all the spider webs with my face the other day. You need as much clear vision as possible to see roots and rocks. Consider a visor or a hat with a brim to block sun. If running with others, leave enough room to see the terrain yourself. Your partners' height, flexibility and level of risk-taking may not be your own. The things I like best about this park: varying terrain, pre-measured courses, helpful staff, amenities (bathrooms, water, even showers in the camping area), long trails (one measures 15K from point-to- point), closed to bicycle traffic, easy to find. Also the park can be used as a (brick) bike-run combo workout for multi-sport enthusiasts.

The down sides of these trails are: the terrain may be a little too rough for novices (not a problem if one is prepared to walk in some sections, and still consider it a workout . . . I know I do); parking fees; but mostly, the trail markings can be a bit confusing adding to the length of your run (not recommended if you have a time constraint, unless you are familiar with the course).

The trails have always been in navigable condition whenever I have been there. However, I have not been on them after storms, so I cannot comment on drainage. The rangers are always interested in the condition of the trails. They would like to be alerted about downed trees, etc., as they are not on all of the trails all of the time.

Summary

Prince William Forest Park, Triangle, VA. National Park System Entrance fee: $3 weekdays, $4 weekends (honor system weekday mornings), or you can buy an annual pass for $10 (access to PW Forest Park only), or Golden Eagle Annual Pass (to all National Parks) for $50. Other National Parks in our area include Shenandoah, Blue Ridge Parkway, Gettysburg, Antietem, and Harper's Ferry. Amenities: bathrooms, water and showers, picnic sites/shelters, maps posted, measured courses and carry-along size maps (recommended).

Overall Rating: "3" Muddy shoes out of a possible 5.