Photo below: Deep shade characterizes much of the W & OD Trail.

Most of the 10K and 20K race courses will be run on the scenic Washington & Old Dominion Trail. The trail is a former railroad right-of-way with an 8-foot asphalt path running from Arlington, Virginia, just across the river from Washington, DC, west to Purcellville in the foothills of the Blue Ridge. Much of the trail, at least in the more rural sections, is accompanied by a bridle trail. Baby Joggers and strollers are not permitted on the course as they are a safety hazard on the W&OD trail.

Runners are asked to stay to the right while on the trail and to avoid running more than two abreast.

Please be courteous to other trail users, too. The W & OD Trail is an important recreational asset of Loudoun County and is extensively used by runners, walkers, skaters, bikers, bird watchers, parents with strollers and kids, etc. The trail will be open to the general public on race morning. While we do not anticipate crowding or that runners will have difficulty passing one another, we want you to be aware of and polite to these other users. It will be important when the YMCA Loudoun County applies for the permit next year!

Bicycle groups that frequently use the trail have been notified of the race, and it is anticipated they will find another venue for their rides on Sunday, August 12.

For more information on race etiquette in general, see the article by Miss Road Manners.