From the W&OD Flyer Spring issue

Monday, March 14, 2011

In this issue
Construction activities along the Trail
Upcoming Events on the W&OD
W&OD Trail Comments/Suggestions
In short
About the Friends of the W&OD
The Friends of the W&OD (aka FOWOD) are a volunteer affiliate of the popular Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park, which is owned and operated by the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA). The purpose of FOWOD is to support and enhance the Trail and its multiple uses as a recreational, environmental and historic resource through fund-raising, promotion, research, educational programming and maintenance.

FOWOD meets on the first Tuesday of the month (except on holidays) at the Vienna Community Center; located at 120 Cherry Street SE Vienna, VA 22180. Meetings start at 7:00 PM and conclude no later than 9:00 PM.

For more information or to join FOWOD, please call (703) 729-0596 or go to the FOWOD website at www.wodfriends.org.

FOWOD Board Officers
President - Roger Neighborgall
Vice President - Pat Turner
Treasurer - David Jackino
Corresponding Secretary - Peter Straub
Recording Secretary - Jay Wind
Webmaster - Bill McCarthy
FOWOD Board Members
Jennifer Crawford
Steve Lord
Anne Pastorkovich (Trail Patrol Representative)
John Shea
B.J. Silvey (Trail Patrol President & Representative)
George Topic
Sam Wheeler
Gordon Wisotzki

Upcoming Meeting Dates....
March 1st
April 5th
May 3rd
June 7th

Interested in becoming a member of the Trail Patrol?Help promote safety and proper trail etiquette
Provide information and directions to trail users
Assist trail users
Call the park office at (703) 729-0596 or email us at wod@nvrpa.org for more information.

Fun Places, Beautiful Spaces
The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority enhances the communities of Northern Virginia and enriches the lives of their citizens through the conservation of regional, natural and cultural resources. It provides diverse regional recreational and educational opportunities, and fosters an understanding of the relationships between people and their environment.

Please visit all your Regional Parks at www.nvrpa.org

W&OD Park Staff
Karl Mohle, Park Manager
Andy Kaganowich, Park Ranger
Roger Bornt, Maintenance Supervisor
Jackie Payne, Maintenance Worker

Feature Story
Warm Weather Returns to the W&ODWith spring beginning on March 20th, warm weather will (hopefully) return to the W&OD Trail. When the temperature goes up, naturally more people want to get out and enjoy the trail. As a gentle reminder, here is some practical information for our patrons to consider as they utilize the trail:

Travel in the right-hand lane, move to the left lane to pass slower traffic.
Give audible warning to trail users ahead.
Move completely off the trail when you come to a stop.
Travel only at speeds safe and appropriate to trail conditions and usage.
Along with these reminders we also have these suggestions for you as you are on the trail:

Let common sense and courtesy be your guides.
If possible, use the buddy system. At a minimum, make sure someone knows that you are going out on the trail and what section you'll be using.
Stop before crossing roads; be alert to obstacles that may be hazards or impede vision.
For a more complete listing of guidelines, please go to our website at www.nvrpa.org/w&odtrail or visit our friends group website at www.wodfriends.org


Construction activities along the TrailOver the coming days and weeks, various projects will be conducted along the W&OD. The following is a list of said projects and relevant information:

The new W&OD Trail bridge over the Capital Beltway (I-495) is under construction on the north side of the existing trail bridge. The existing bridge and trail are open during construction. Trail repaving and realignment to the new bridge is scheduled to occur between March 15 - April 15, 2011. Bicyclists are asked to dismount and follow the directions of the flagmen while in these work zones. Please use caution while traveling through this area. Once the new bridge is open to trail users, which is anticipated to be on or around April 15, 2011, the old bridge and trail pavement will be removed. For more information, contact Dan Iglhaut at (703) 359-4628 or via email at diglhaut@nvrpa.org.


Repaving of various sections of the trail is on-going. Recently, the section of trail from Isaac Newton Square (Reston) down to Hunter Mill Road has been repaved. Other areas will include the east and west side of Route 28 bridge, the short section from Van Buren Street (Herndon) down to mile marker 19, the area around Broad Run Bridge in Ashburn (mile marker 24.5) and, lastly the area from Clark's Crossing Park down to Ayr Hill Road in Vienna. Depending on weather conditions the repaving is expected to take 2-4 weeks. Please be aware of signs/flagmen in the area and use caution while passing through these sections.

Upcoming Events on the W&OD
On Sunday March 27th, 2011, the Walter L. Mess W&OD Trail 5K Run will be held on the trail in Falls Church in honor of Mr. Mess. The start and finish of the race will be located at the American Legion Post Lodge #130, located at 400 North Oak Street in Falls Church.

A founding member of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA), city resident and long-time park supporter, Mr. Mess was appointed to the NVRPA Board as an original representative from the City of Falls Church in 1958. The run, sponsored by the Friends of the W&OD Trail (FOWOD) will honor Mr. Mess and his extensive involvement with the community. Proceeds from the run will benefit FOWOD and local charities. To register or get more information, visit www.mc-coop.org or call (703) 927-4833. Registration forms are also available at the City Library, 120 N. Virginia Avenue, and Community Center, 223 Little Falls Street.

On Saturday April 30th, 2011, Paul's Ride for Life will occur beginning at the Reston Town Center. This event is in conjunction with the CycleFest Expo at Reston Town Center. The bicycle ride is dedicated to Paul Rossmeissl; he passed away at age 54 from injuries sustained in a bicycle accident along the W&OD Trail. He gave the gift of life to three individuals who received his liver and both of his kidneys. This ride will benefit the Washington Regional Transplant Community. For more information or to register visit www.paulsrideforlife.org.

Bike to Work Day May 20th

Join thousands of area commuters on Friday May 20, 2011 for the annual Bike to Work Day. Learn how cycling can be a fun and healthy way to commute to work. There will be 50 regional pit stops throughout the Washington, D.C. area. Several of these pit stops are located along the W&OD Trail; including Reston, Herndon, Vienna and Merrifield. For more information on pit stop locations, please go to www.waba.org.


W&OD Trail Comments/SuggestionsPlease contact the trail office at (703) 729-0596 or via email at wod@nvrpa.org if you have questions or comments about the trail. If you have suggestions for our quarterly newsletter we welcome your thoughts as well.

Washington & Old Dominion Trail
21293 Smiths Switch Road, Ashburn, VA 20147 | T: 703-729-0596
www.nvrpa.org/W&ODTrail

Trail event today

Civil War re-enactors will hike from Wiehle Avenue to Hunter Mill between 9am and 5pm today.

gravel shoulders

Gravel shoulders are being laid along the newly paved section from MM 15 (Hunter Mill) to MM 17 (Isaac Newton). They're complete from just west of Isaac Newton to Sunrise Valley. Used the marked detour of the bridle trail for the section between Sunrise Valley and Buckthorn.

Great day for a ride

Except for some water puddles, the trail was clear from mile marker 7 (Falls Church) to mile marker 24 (route 28). Heading west into the wind was slow but the return trip was great. Near the Dulles overpass I saw 2 female cyclists riding double using both lanes. The one in the left lane refused to yield to oncoming traffic and forced another cyclist to the edge and 2 pedestrians off the trail. While it is ok to ride double, please yield to oncoming traffic.

a quiet ride

Took my Glider for a spin out to Purcellville today. The debris from the high winds is mostly gone. They've been clearing dead trees, vines, and such from about Cochran Mill Road. Saw the truck at work near Mile Marker 35. The picture is near Mile Marker 36.5 looking eastbound. Dominion has done a nice job.

signs of spring

Rode from Vienna to Purcellville. The cheeping at Difficult Run was deafening. Most of the brush and debris from the recent high winds has been removed. Fountains at Sunset Hills and Purcellville remain off but the others function.

Ding Dong, the ice is gone -- not

The trail west of Leesburg is clear except for two locations: the S curve at Clarks Gap (MM 38+) and underneath 7 along 287 at MM 43+. In those two locations one needed to dismount as snow/ice covered all of the trail. Both sections were short though, under 10 yards. Other than that, lay down on your aero bars and GO!

Tried out the trail today and found it rideable east of Leesburg all the way to Herndon. Some icy patches, with wide tracks through them, in the shady spots, especially from Rt. 659 west. Will be trying out west of Leesburg in the next few days; a couple of days ago there were still extensive snow/ice patches in the shady spots -- some with tracks through them and most without.

Two wheels good, three not so much fun

First ride of the year on the trail, from Sandburg out to Cedar and then to Lee Hwy and back. OK for those on two wheels, but for those of use who have a bit wider track due to having two wheels in front like I do on the trike, there were a few spots where one of my front wheels was riding on the packed down ice & snow- a tad bumpy. Tracks are more than wide enough in all the places I rode for two wheelers. If the weather forecast holds for this week, it should all be gone by the end of the week. Saw a big Red-tailed Hawk swoop in to a tree in the middle of Falls Church right over a walkers head. Lots of people out on the trail.

Ice is melting but continued caution is appropriate

Today I cycled from Falls Church to the west of Herndon. Ice remains on the trail but only 2 sections have place where extra caution is required--just west of Gallows Road and west of Cedar Lane. Otherwise the trail is either clear or cleared tracks are wide enough to use with relative safety. With warming temperatures these areas should soon melt.

Trail Conditions

I cycled from Falls Church to Herndon. The trail was relatively free of ice except for sections between Gallows Road and Route 123 in Vienna, west of Hunter Mill, and east of Old Reston Ave where the trail passes the power substation and golf course. While much of these areas had a small clear path, a section west of Cedar Lane and the section at the power substation had places where a short walk was appropriate. Several places have overhanging branches and brush on the trail.

Conditions in Reston Area

Yesterday I tried riding on the Trail from Wiehle Ave west. There are two narrow tire tracks left by the NVRPA vehicle that are mostly melted. It's a good test of bike handling skills to ride in the 8" or so track. However, there's still lots of ice in several sections even in the tire tracks, especially near the power lines near the old Sallie Mae building. At Old Reston Ave I gave up and rode along Sunset Hills Rd instead. On the return trip I started at the YMCA and headed east and was able to ride OK to Old Reston Ave. Knowing about the ice to the east of there I detoured along North Shore Dr back to Wiehle.

Today I drove along Hunter Mill Rd and where it crosses the trail it appears that there's a lot of clear trail to the east toward Vienna. The section to the west where it's shady is still ice-covered with some melting in the tire tracks. I'll be glad when NVRPA gets their new snow plow later this month.

Conditions?

Anyone out there care to give a report of trail conditions as of February 4th?

Temporary closure west of Vienna

Signs on the trail between Vienna and Hunter Mill Road indicate that the trail will be closed on Thursday, January 27, 2011 from 5:30 p.m. until 5:30 a.m. the next morning.

Trail Conditions

Today, I cycled from Falls Church (mm7)to Trailside Park in Herndon (mm21). The trail was relatively free from ice. Some slush on trail just west of Gallows Rd and just west of Cedar Lane. The only serious ice issue was east of Old Reston Ave where the cedar tress screen Dominion Power's substation and shade the trail. There the ice was still solid and required cycling on the gravel portion of the trail.

Potomac River Run - 5K

Date: Saturday January 1, 2011
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Location: Reston Town Center
Notes: January 1st Potomac River Running conducting a 5k on the trail from Reston Town Center down to Sallie Mae / American Dream Way bridge and returning to the Town Center. About 300 participants (maximum)

Trail mostly clear from Sunrise Valley Dr to Vienna

We took a brief walk along the trail today near Sunrise Valley Dr and it appeared to be mostly clear. A cyclist coming from Vienna reported that it was clear from that direction. The photo at the right was taken just east of Sunrise Valley Dr where the trail is shaded. Even there a narrow clear area is present, where the NVRPA truck drove over the snow.

NOTICE for Dec 2 evening trail users!

From the FABB Blog:

Open season December 2 - Fairfax County police will be conducting a "deer
culling" operation adjacent to the W&OD Trail at Clarks Crossing Road where the
soccer fields are located. According to signs posted there, the trail will be
closed on December 2 from 5pm to 5am. As we all know, the trail is officially
closed after dark but many people use it in the Fall and Winter for traveling
between Reston and Vienna.

For more information about the W&OD Trail see the W&OD Trail Report, the Friend
of the W&OD Trail site or the NVRPA W&OD Trail page.

Update - 12:30pm Nov. 30: I just spoke with a county wildlife biologist who
stated that the trail will be closed at 5pm on Dec. 2 and that police will be
using rifles to shoot deer in the area. Cyclists will not be able to get
through, from approximate Clarks Crossing Rd to Hunter Mill Rd. See the Fairfax
County bike map for alternate routes.

Labels: NVRPA, W and OD Trail
posted by Bruce Wright at 11:24 AM #

Trail reopens west of Leesburg

The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA) is pleased to announce the two-mile stretch of the W&OD Trail between mile markers 36 and 38 west of Leesburg has been re-opened for public use.

This portion of the trail was closed to the public in December of 2009 to enable Dominion Virginia Power to install an underground transmission line. The Park Authority and Dominion worked together to ensure the trail would remain open during the year-long process by arranging the construction of a paved detour. The affected area started at milepost 36, approximately 3/5 of a mile west of the Route 7 trail crossing.

Trail repaving

Beginning November 30th the trail will be repaved starting in the Isaac Newton / Private Drive section of Reston and heading east to Hunter Mill Road. Total time for this project will be approximately two weeks (assuming no weather issues). The trail will be detoured onto the horse trail and signs deployed alerting trail users. As time/funds permit other sections of the trail will be addressed as well. Future projects include paving from Hunter Mill down to Vienna Train station, paving west of Reston into Herndon, and a small stretch near Broad Run Bridge (mile marker 24.5) where the pavement is sloughing off.

Thanksgiving day 5k run

Giving Thanks 5K Run

Date: Thursday November 25, 2010
Time: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
The run will have a maximum of 100 people. It will utilize the trail from Vienna Station to Clark's Crossing.

Construction on cut-through near Washington Blvd.

Be advised that the cut-through that links the W&OD to 19th St. near East Falls Church has ripped up pavement, down to mud. Some have ridden through, but be prepared to dismount if conditions warrant.

Optimist Club Walk

Date: Saturday September 25, 2010
Time: 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Vienna - Clark's Xing
Notes: Saturday September 25th the Vienna Optimist Club will conduct a walk from the Vienna Train Station / Caboose area out to Clark's Crossing Park and returning to the station/caboose. They will begin around 8 AM and conclude by 1 PM. There will be approximately 250 people for this event.

MS Capital Challenge Walk

Date: Saturday September 25, 2010
Time: 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Vienna - Arlington
Notes: Saturday September 25th the MS Capitol Challenge Walk will be conducted from Vienna to Arlington from 6 AM to 4 PM. The MS walk will begin off of the trail and the MS folks will enter the trail around Park Street/Talahi Road area in Vienna and walk east and leave the trail in Arlington (Lee Highway area). There will be approximately 500 people for this event.

Tree work west of Leesburg

Bartlett Tree Company will be out along the trail in the area from Purcellville to Loudoun County 4H Fairgrounds to cut down dead trees, broken branches, etc. They started yesterday and will finish by late next month (September). They have been educated in trail etiquette and will have signs/flagmen stationed to guide trail users around the work area. In some areas the entire trail will be blocked; in such instances trail traffic will be detoured onto the horse trail. Forward this email along as necessary and let me know if you have questions. Thanks,

Karl Mohle
Park Manager
W&OD Railroad Regional Park
21293 Smiths Switch Road
Ashburn, VA 20147
(703) 729-0596 - office
(703) 724-0898 - fax

Pacific Blvd. Bridge Dedication

Date: Wednesday August 25, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Location: Pacific Blvd. Bridge over the Trail, just west of Rt 28.

Beltway Bridge Construction

The NVPA reports: "As part of the Capital Beltway HOT Lanes project, the new W&OD Trail bridge over the Beltway is under construction on the north side of the existing trail bridge. The existing bridge and trail will remain open during construction. Currently, on both sides of the Beltway, bridge abutment walls are being constructed next to the existing bridge and trail. PLEASE USE CAUTION WHILE IN THESE WORK ZONES. The bridge beams are scheduled to be installed in October and the bridge deck is scheduled to be installed in November. Once the new bridge is open to trail users, the existing bridge will be removed."

Reston Bike Club Century

Date: Sunday August 22, 2010
Time: 6:30 am - 5:30 pm

Location: eastbound W&OD Leesburg-Reston
Approximately 1200 riders start at Reston Town Center. The portion of the W&OD used for this event is from Grace Street in Herndon to Ashburn Road (westbound leg) and returning from Leesburg to Reston Town Center via trail in its entirety (eastbound leg).

WEATHER WARNING & INFORMATION

The following information was provided by the Boy Scouts National Capitol Area Council thru the Trail Patrol

A heat advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible. Drink plenty of fluids... stay in an air-conditioned room... stay out of the sun... and check up on elderly relatives and neighbors. Never leave children or pets unaccompanied in a parked vehicle - even with the windows cracked. An excessive heat watch means that a prolonged period of hot temperatures is expected.

Watch for signs of dehydration! The simplest way to check for dehydration is to check urine color. It should be clear or very pale yellow. If it begins to darken in color, fluid intake should increase. (Note: If you've increased water intake -- but thirst, headache or other symptoms persist -- check with your doctor. It might simply be that a fluid containing electrolytes is needed to restore a normal balance. It could also be that some other underlying cause requires medical attention.) Remember: if you try to drink a large amount of water all at once, your kidneys will simply flush the excess fluid by sending you to the bathroom. It's better to drink regular amounts of fluid throughout the day. Each morning, pour the liquid you need to drink and make sure that by the end of the day, it's gone. That way, you won't forget how much you've already had.

Mild Dehydration: (increase fluid intake -- and for babies, call a medical professional): Thirst, dry lips, dry mouth, flushed skin, fatigue, irritability, headache, urine begins to darken in color, urine output decreases.
Moderate Dehydration: (call a medical professional): All of the signs of mild dehydration, plus: skin doesn't bounce back quickly when pressed, very dry mouth, sunken eyes, (in infant - sunken fontanel, the soft spot on the head), output of urine will be limited and color of urine will be dark yellow, cramps, stiff and/or painful joints, severe irritability, fatigue, severe headache.
Severe Dehydration: (call emergency number): All of the signs of mild and moderate dehydration, plus: blue lips, blotchy skin, confusion, lethargy, cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, rapid and weak pulse, low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, high fever, inability to pee or cry tears, disinterest in drinking fluid.

Signs of Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke

Experts say that adults with heat exhaustion should stop the activity, move into a cool environment, remove excess clothing and drink hydrating liquids (NOT coffee, tea, sodas or juice!). They say that adults with heatstroke, however, are suffering an emergency. Their body needs to be cooled with ice packs or immersion in cold water, and immediate and professional medical attention must be called. We say: Don't take chances. We believe that any sign of moderate to severe dehydration should be promptly attended to and medical professionals called -- especially in particularly vulnerable populations like babies, children, anyone with an illness, and seniors. If you're in doubt, please call for help. No competent medical professional will mind being called for help with a possible case of moderate to severe dehydration, heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Heat Cramps: brief but painful involuntary muscle spasms. They usually occur in the muscles being used during the exercise, and are a result of insufficient liquid intake
Heat Exhaustion: difficulty breathing, headache, feeling hot on head and neck, dizziness, heat cramps, chills, nausea, irritability, vomiting, extreme weakness or fatigue
Heatstroke: rapid and shallow breathing, rapid heartbeat, unusually high or low blood pressure, lack of sweating, mental confusion and disorientation, unconsciousness, physical collapse

Temporary closures in August

DULLES CORRIDOR METRORAIL PROJECTIntermittent Closures of W&OD Trail Expected Early August as Rail Bridge Construction AcceleratesThe section of the Washington and Old Dominion Trail beneath the Dulles International Airport Access Highway and the Dulles Toll Road near Reston will be closed for short periods during several weeks in August.The closings are necessary because Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project construction crews will be ramping up work on the new bridge that will carry the rail tracks, which will run in the median of the airport and toll roads, over the trail. Crews have been working on the bridge for several months and trail users have encountered some detours.During the first week of August, crews will start site preparations for hanging and placing large steel girders on the ridge over the trail. The girder placements are currently scheduled to begin on or about Tuesday, Aug. 10.The steel girder erection work will be done during daytime hours because there are overhead power lines at this work site that would be difficult for workers to see at night.The trail will only close temporarily when the steel girders are lifted and installed. Closures are executed to last approximately 15 minutes or less for each girder.The affected section is located between Wiehle Avenue and Hunter Mill Road, where it crosses under the Dulles International Airport Access Highway (DIAAH) near the trail's mile marker 16. Because the future Metrorail line will run down the median of the DIAAH, this bridge is being built to support the tracks over the W&OD Trail.After the erection work is completed, crews will be building the bridge itself. Most of that work will be done at night and will require full closures of the trail. A schedule will be released later this fall and the work is expected to be completed before Thanksgiving.

Ride to Provid--Sunday July 18

Opening ceremony is at 11:00 at the Reston Town Center . The 35 mile ride leaves at 11:15 and the 20 mile leave at 11:30. Rides will be going from Reston to Columbia Pike and back or some portion thereof.

Civil War Hike--July 17, 2010

Civil War hike from Wiehle Avenue to Hunter Mill Road. About a dozen participants from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Friends of the W&OD 10K –July 31, 2010

On the W&OD Trail from Old Vienna Train Station to Hunter Mill Road & back
6:30 pm – 10K –Run or walk

6:31 pm – Baby Stroller Division non-competitive 10K

Attack on Trail

There was evidently an attack on a female runner on the trail today west of the 22.5 marker in Sterling. The attacker was described as wearing a Motley Crue t-shirt and having both a ponytail and a goatee. Police were notified.

Sinkhole at Brandymore Castle

There's a sinkhole on the W&OD trail at Brandymore Castle, east of East Falls Church, in Arlington.  The hole is on the east side of the hill and has been marked by cones. 

Arlington Parks and Rec is aware of the situation.  There's been maintenance work on the lights along that stretch of trail over the last few months but no word if that's the cause.

Stay safe.

May 21 (Friday) Bike to Work Day

Note that the trail will be exceptionally busy with cyclists on Friday, May 21st. Cyclist will be gathering at "pit stops" along the trail. These are located in Leesburg, Sterling, Herndon, Reston, and Vienna. Also, cyclists may be riding in large groups. While the Bike To Work event is scheduled from 6:30 am to 9 a.m. heavy use will continue throughout the day as cyclists make return trips after work.

Recently Paved Section in Falls Church Park

Recent work paving the section of the W&OD in Falls Church Park between N.Van Buren St and the N.Sycamore extension has completed, leaving smooth fresh asphalt in place of what used to be quite a bumpy ride.

Avian Sights & Sounds

Lots of folks out on the trail for a Tuesday morning. Heard or saw following birds: Baltimore Orioles, Red-shouldered Hawks, White-eyed Vireo, Catbird (carring nesting material), Robins, Goldfinches, Indigo Buntings.

Message from Trail Manager

The staff here at the trail is gradually working our way along the trail to pick up the branches left over from the winter snows. We've been busy mowing in the meantime. When the weather is a little rainy we head out to pick up the branches. The majority of the branches have been picked up, though there are a couple of areas in Falls Church and sections west (like Simpson Circle) that remain. Thanks,Karl MohlePark ManagerW&OD Railroad Regional Park21293 Smiths Switch RoadAshburn, VA 20147(703) 729-0596 - office(703) 724-0898 - fax

On the road again

Out patrolling yesterday- seem like Spring is almost over and Summer is sneaking in. Most wildflowers are already past the blooming stage. Wild Pinkster Azaleas in full bloom along trail near Hunter Station Road and perfuming the path. Skunk Cabbage has reached full growth several weeks early along Difficult Run. Saw first Brown Thrasher of the year fly across the path and dive into the bushes. Construction for Metro extension has got paved trail west of Toll Road torn up and traffic diverted to bridle path, which has been re-graveled (is this a word?) and well tamped down. Looked like crew was ready to lay asphalt down as Jeff and I went back east after turning around. Traffic on trail was very light for a beautiful Spring day- hardly anyone out.

Trail Event

Please note the following event will concentrate large numbers of trail users.

Saturday April 24, 2010

Paul's Ride for Life begins at Reston Town Center and heads west for 10 & 30 mile options between mile markers 10 and 25. http://paulsrideforlife.org/

2010 Bike Show Featuring Extraordinary Rides (Reminder)

Just one last reminder, and thanks to John for letting me post these.

Just a reminder that the Phoenix Bikes' 2010 Bike Show is tomorrow, April 8 at 7pm.  It's a great time for a great cause, no spandex required.

Tickets are $20 now, $25 at the door.  Further details below.

Buy tickets here

Event Details
WHO: You, your friends, family, and Phoenix Bikes
WHAT: The Bike Show featuring - Extraordinary Rides
WHERE: NRECA (National Rural Electric Cooperative Association) 4301 Wilson Blvd, Arlington VA
WHEN: APRIL 8, 2010 from 7-9pm
HOW: Get here by Bike, Metro, Foot or Auto (bike parking available)

More info here

See you at the show!!

Trail Patrol Seeks New Members

Any responsible adult of any physical ability who walks, runs, skates, skis, cycles, rides a wheelchair, sits astride a horse, pushes a carriage, or just strolls on the trail is welcome to become a trail patrol member. The Patrol operates under the sponsorship of the Friends of the W&OD, whose purpose is to support and enhance the Trail. The basic responsibilities of a patrol member are to: (1) Promote the safe use of the Trail (2) Provide information about the Trail to the public(3) Assist Trail users when help is needed. Volunteers should be willing to commit a few hours each month to the Patrol's on-going effort to keep the W&OD Trail safe, to maintain and, hopefully augment the luster of this bright jewel of the region. Volunteers may choose to serve on the trail or behind the scenes in support of the patrol -- or both. Even a small contribution of your flexibly arranged time will be helpful, and the experience should be both rewarding and fun. If you wish to help in these capacities there is a role you can perform.For further information please contact the W&OD Trail Office at (703) 729-0596 or WOD@nvrpa.org. To apply on line go to www.wodfriends.org and go to the trail patrol tab.

Trail work

Notice from Town of Herndon
On Monday we will close SB lanes on Van Buren St. (see attached news release) for approximately 6-8 weeks. There will be one line of traffic crossing the trail in each direction (see MOT). Pedestrian signal will be turned off for the duration of closure and temporary stop signs installed for the trail users. We anticipate the town contractor to mobilize in mid April. http://www.herndon-va.gov/Content/Town_Services/Streets/Street_Closures_Detours/default.aspx?cnlid=2108

Arlington Flasher Update

Subject: ARLINGTON COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS RELEASE: Arlington Police Advise Bike Trail SafetyFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 23, 2010MEDIA CONTACT: Det. Crystal Nosal, 703 228-4331; 571 221-1492Arlington Police Advise Bike Trail Safety;Indecent exposure suspect still at largeARLINGTON, Va. - The Arlington County Police Department's Special Victim's Unit is investigating eleven incidents of indecent exposure that have occurred periodically since mid-January 2010, on the Washington and Old Dominion bike trail. A white male subject has been exposing himself to woman at various sections along the bike trail. Detectives are looking for more information from the public regarding these exposures.Anyone who uses the W & OD Bike trail and observes any suspicious activity is asked to contact police. Police have significantly increased patrols on the bike paths. They also urge people who frequently spend time on bike trails and other secluded areas to be cautious and aware of their surroundings. Women should avoid walking or running alone, and they are encouraged not to use devices such as headphones that prevent hearing someone approach. Police recommend that bike trail users carry cell phones so that they can call police as soon as incidents occur. People should report anyone observed acting in a manner not consistent with other bike trail users, such as loitering in the wooded areas, as suspicious behavior.Anyone with any information about this case is asked to contact Detective Comer at (703) 228-4243 or Detective Austin at (703) 228-4241.Detective Crystal L. Nosal #1187Media Relations/Legislative AffairsArlington County Police Department1425 N. Courthouse RoadArlington, VA 22201703-228-4331cnosal@arlingtonva.us

Phoenix Bikes 2010 Bike Show

This doesn't really have anything to do with the W&OD Trail but its a fun bike-related event for a good cause. Also, the Phoenix Bikes shop is right off the W&OD trail at 4200 S Four Mile Run Dr, so it's kinda related.  (Full Disclosure: I am a volunteer with Phoenix Bikes and am on the 2010 Bike Show marketing committee)

Phoenix Bikes, a non-profit bike shop in Arlington, is holding their third annual Bike Show on April 8th, 2010 and they would like to invite you, your friends, and your family to come out and take part.

The event will include an art show, a silent auction, a raffle for awesome swag (like free bikes donated by local shops and other goodies), and speeches by local movers and shakers in the bike world. Plus, there will be plenty of free food and libations to go around. 

The Bike Show is a celebration of bikes and bike culture and every year Phoenix Bikes chooses a theme as the focus of their celebration. This year the show will highlight “Extraordinary Rides” experienced by riders from the DC Metropolitan area.

There will be seven rides featured.  In one, a cyclist biked across Southern Sudan to help treat the crippling effects caused by the Guinea worm. In another, three women biked from DC to Montreal to learn about community gardens and to make a documentary film on the issue. As part of the event, local artists will display artwork inspired by these and other Extraordinary Rides.

Tickets are $20 per person and two raffle tickets are included with the purchase.

You can buy tickets or find out more about the show here.

And if the promise of free booze, food, and prizes isn't enough entice you, here are some more highlights:

Special guests at the show will include: Chris Eatough, a six-time 24-hour Solo world champion mountain biker and the Director of Bike Arlington; Eric Gilliland, outgoing Executive Director of the Washington Area Bicycle Association and newly appointed Executive Director of the National Association of City Transportation Officials; and Jay Fisette, Chairman of the Arlington County Board and passionate cycling supporter. Jay will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the show.

Some items up for auction include: an R.E.Load Bag, jackets from Patagonia, Swobo cycling apparel, free admission to Madame Toussands, a One-year free membership at Arlington County fitness centers, a family package bike tour of Mount Vernon from Bike and Roll, and dozens of gift certificates from local and national companies. And there is still have more stuff coming in!

So if you're interested, make sure to buy your tickets early.

More info on Phoenix Bikes can be found here.

Event Details
WHO: You, your friends, family, and Phoenix Bikes
WHAT: The Bike Show featuring - Extraordinary Rides
WHERE: NRECA (National Rural Electric Cooperative Association) 4301 Wilson Blvd, Arlington VA
WHEN: APRIL 8, 2010 from 7-9pm
HOW: Get here by Bike, Metro, Foot or Auto (bike parking available)

Trail work west of route 28

PACIFIC BOULEVARD EXTENSION ACROSS W&OD TRAILBEGINNING TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2010WEATHER PERMITTING• From 9:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. April 6th – 8th, trail traffic can expect flagging operations and intermittent stoppages (30 minutes or less) as crews erect bridge beams for the Pacific Boulevard Extension over the Washington & Old Dominion Trail. The future overpass and trail connection for Pacific Boulevard is about 1/8 mile west of the W&OD trail bridge over Route 28.• On weekdays throughout the months of April, May and June, trail traffic should expect flagging operations and intermittent stoppages (no longer than 10 minutes) for construction on the bridge deck. • During construction of the bridge, no access will be provided between the W&OD Trail and existing Pacific Boulevard to the south.• In observance of Bike-to-Work Day on Friday, May 21, 2010, no construction will be performed that would interrupt trail traffic.On behalf of the project team, we appreciate your cooperation during construction and look forward to a major improvement in traffic congestion and public safety once the project is complete.For more project information, visit www.virginiadot.org.

Oh what a great day to cycle

I started at route 28 and headed west. I wanted to experience the "horrible" bypass that was put in just west of Leesburg to accommodate work by Dominion Power. Well, the bypass is probably as hilly and twisty as you have heard BUT, I liked it. It made cycling that section more interesting and fun. I suppose if you want to pound out the miles on your drops you will not like the bypass; but that is not me. Anyway the trail is in good shape all the way to Paeonian Springs where I turned around.

Flasher Incident on W&OD near Bluemont Junction

From Arlington Now:

A man exposed himself to a jogger on a section of the W&OD trail near Ashlawn Elementary School Sunday morning. Arlington police are investigating whether this incident is related to a series of five indecent exposures that occurred in January.
  
In this latest incident, a woman was running on the trail around 9:15 a.m. when a man exposed himself, according to police. The man was wear a ski mask over his face at the time. He’s described as a white male, between 5′8″ and 5′10″ with a slim build.
  
Police are asking anyone with any information about the case to call Detective Comer at (703) 228-4243 or Detective Austin at (703) 228-4241.

Trail Conditions

Got out today on trike for first ride of year on trail between Gallows and Hunter Mill- looked pretty good- one or two narrow spots because of piles of snow, but with the next few days weather forecast that won't be a problem. It was interesting feeling the temp. drop a few degrees when next to the snow. Very few people out today- more runners than bikers. Daffodils near Hunter Mill up about 7" and budded, heard first Towhee of the year calling.

Dirck

Falls Church/ North Arlington Update

I guess somebody with a plow reads this blog:

All trail obstructions I discussed on Monday, including lingering ice/ snow patches, downed trees, etc, have been cleared. The trail between Gallows Rd in Vienna and S. Walter Reed Dr. in Arlington is completely clear and ready to use.  Thanks to whoever took it upon themselves to plow/ clear that stretch.

Also, the last of the construction equipment on the east end of the Rt. 7 bridge has been cleared and the bridge at Little Falls Rd has also been refurbished and is back in action.

The temp is going to get up to a down-right balmy 50 today and (dare I say it?) might even reach 60 tomorrow.  Light winds expected all weekend.  Welcome to Spring folks, now get out there and ride!

Route 7 overpass in Falls Church

The resurfacing has been completed and both the east and west bound lanes are open . However, some of the construction equipments still needs to be removed--most importantly is the dumpster that blocks part of the trail on the east side of the bridge.

Public Map of Icy Patches on W&OD

To put the following updates in context, there is a publicly editable map on google maps. Please feel free to update.

View Greater DC Trail Snow Conditions (2010) in a larger map

Falls Church/ North Arlington Update

The trail is starting to clear up but there are still some patches where shade has stymied the melting process.

Working east from Gallows Rd, the significant trouble areas are as follows:

 There's a tree down on the section of the trail between Idylwood Park and I-66 but it only covers about half the trail and there's more than enough room to get around.

The trail parallel to Virginia Ln is still essentially impassable with large mounds of snow still piled on the trail.  For cyclists, I would suggest just hopping on the road until the County Rd 703 intersection.

The paved section for about 100 yards past Chestnut St is covered to about 4 inches, there's a dirt path next to it that is clear.

It's pretty dicey between Great Falls St and Little Falls St.  It's only about 2-4 inches, but there are ice patches mixed in with the slush that can be hazardous.  If you're on your bike and feeling very adventurous, have fun.  People on foot shouldn't have too much trouble so long as they don't mind getting their feet a little wet.

After Little Falls St. the trail clears up significantly until just past Falls Church park.  The hill going up Brandymore Castle has a cleared path about a foot wide.  If you're on a bike, I would suggest walking the hill, especially if there are others there.  The chance for collision is just too great.

After Brandymore, the trail clears up at least as far as the Custis intersection where I turn off. 

All in all, the trail is in pretty good shape along this section.  I'd say another week of above-freezing temperatures should clear away most of the rest of the hold-outs.

Snow and downed trees in Reston area

The trail is still snow-covered in the Reston area as you can see in this photo taken at Buckthorn Lane looking west. Looking east from this same location, there are some big trees down across the unpaved trail. These will take a while to remove.

2/25/10. Snow Blankets W&OD

This photo shows the W&OD Trail from Maple Avenue looking east. The
Whole Foods store is on the left.

Temperatures are forcasted to hit highs in the 40s next week. This
will clear much of the sunny areas, but shady areas stay ice coated
for extended periods.

Progress in clearing snow

Karl Mohle reported (Tuesday, February 23) on the trail patrol Yahoo group "that...

Our maintenance crews have cleared the snow (mostly) off of the trail. We went from our office here in Ashburn (Smith Switch Road) out to the detour trail (Loudoun County 4H Fairground). This area is fairly clear of snow. Tomorrow we will head east and clear snow off the trail as well. As we go we are cutting down the broken tree limbs etc that we encounter (like what we did today heading west). We'll chip the limbs sometime next week...."

Snow Update: W&OD to be plowed this week

Great news trail users!

Paul McCray, Operations Director for NVRPA, just posted this comment yesterday to WashCycle:

The W&OD Trail staff will begin clearing snow during the week of February 22 to speed up the melting process. This is in line with our policies of the past which included leaving snow for cross country skiers and then clearing intersections and plowing deeper accumulations.

When we plow, we won't put the blades right on the pavement but will leave an inch or so which will melt off fairly quickly. If we were to scrape right down to the asphalt, we'd do just as much damage as road plows do on the streets and then the W&OD would have rough, patched sections throughout the year. We don't have the funds to pave the trail more often than every 15 years so it's important to preserve the surface any way we can.

 I for one will be sending a note of thanks to Mr. McCray for this action.  IF you'd like to do the same, his contact information is below:

Paul McCray
Park Operations Director - NVRPA
703-359-4614
pmccray@nvrpa.org

Trail conditions in Vienna (between Church and Maple)

Thanks to the mystery snow plow man, the trail is clear in Vienna between Church St and Maple Ave. A small crew spent a couple of hours Sunday morning clearing about a 4 foot wide path along this stretch. Some sections of the trail get much more use than others, and we think those sections should be cleared for trail users after a snowstorm. The infamous cross-country skiers, snowshoe users, and others who like a snow-covered trail can either use the other W&OD Trail that is unpaved, or in those few areas where there is no parallel trail, they can use the unplowed sections of the trail. We think local communities could be recruited to help with this plowing.

Trail Conditions in Arlington

 

  
Trail conditions in Arlington aren't much better than Vienna.  I tried taking the cyclocross out this afternoon to see if I could ride out to work and ended up carrying the thing most of the way. One bright spot: there is a half mile stretch of trail between N Patrick Henry Dr. and Madison Manor Park that is clear enough to ride on.  Of course, you have to carry your bike through a half mile of snow in either direction to get there.

Other than that, between the Custis Trail intersection at Bon Air Park in Arlington and Gallows Rd in Vienna, there's anywhere between 6 in to a foot of snow still on the trail. Basically, if you own a dogsled now is your time to shine.  For everyone else: see you in April.

Trail conditions in Vienna

Well, I'm guessing nobody is too surprised, but the trail isn't much good for bicycling these days. I haven't tried it with my studded tires yet, but given how chopped up the surface is, and how deep the snow is under the crust, it's probably not much fun. Here's a shot taken near North Side Park in Vienna.

Trail Patrol seeks new members

Any responsible adult of any physical ability who walks, runs, skates, skis, cycles, rides a wheelchair, sits astride a horse, pushes a carriage, or just strolls on the trail is welcome to become a trail patrol member. The Patrol operates under the sponsorship of the Friends of the W&OD, whose purpose is to support and enhance the Trail. The basic responsibilities of a patrol member are to:
Ø Promote the safe use of the Trail
Ø Provide information about the Trail to the public
Ø Assist Trail users when help is needed

Volunteers should be willing to commit a few hours each month to the Patrol's on-going effort to keep the W&OD Trail safe, to maintain and, hopefully augment the luster of this bright jewel of the region. Volunteers may choose to serve on the trail or behind the scenes in support of the patrol -- or both. Even a small contribution of your flexibly arranged time will be helpful, and the experience should be both rewarding and fun. If you wish to help in these capacities there is a role you can perform.

For further information please contact the W&OD Trail Office at (703) 729-0596 or WOD@nvrpa.org. To apply on line go to www.wodfriends.org and go to the trail patrol tab.

Update for Lights out on the trail in Arlington

The Trail Report received the following response from Arlington Country regarding the light situation between N. Sycamore St and N. Patrick Henry Dr:

Thank you for sharing your observations about the lights on the trail! Your observations reflect the monthly report that Arlington submits to Dominion for repairs. They are aware of the issue and are making efforts to repair the lights. They are laying new cable through this section. Dominion’s work order is 7273292. Unfortunately, I do not have information about how long the repair will take. If I receive additional information I will share it with you.

I'll follow up with Dominion on Monday about when they expect to have the work done.

Lights out on the trail in Arlington

"I wanted to let you know all of the street lights along the trail between N. Sycamore St and N. Patrick Henry Dr in Arlington are out and it gets really dark along that stretch at night. Anyone running or riding there definitely needs a light.  Incidentally, that's also the area where the flasher incidents occurred which you reported on Jan 18.  I thought that might warrant an update."


This message came from a bike commuter who travels from Ballston to Tysons Corner using the W&OD Trail.  This is good information to share.  That's a long stretch along the sound barrier next to I-66.  It is an area with lots of walkers and runners. I'll try to sign him up as a contributor because this is good information to know.


It's possible to contribute using a cell phone and sending an email message or a text message.  Think about how you could be a contributor.

W&OD Trail Photo Contest

This posting is about fun and creativity. We are going to have a photo contest focused on the W&OD Trail until the end of February. With so many people carrying phones with photographic capabilities this could be a hoot. To get the creative juices flowing I'm posting photos of our winner of the helmet decorating contest we held in conjunction with ViVa! Vienna! in 2008 which had a W&OD theme..
As you can see from these photos our winner was highly creative and had alot of fun with this contest.  Now apply this same creativity to photos relating to people, animals, and scenery along the W&OD Trail.  Many of the photos will be posted on this blog and on the bikes@vienna blog and Facebook Page.  The winner will receive a new helmet, one of our Nutcase models.

Send your entry as an attachment to an email message to john.brunow@draisin.us.  Please keep the size of the file smaller (under 100K).  I'm directing the entries to an email I have that has quite a bit of capacity, but lots of entries could swamp it.  Understand these photos will be used in multiple ways to promote the W&OD Trail and bikes@vienna.

Let the fun begin.  Let's see what we capture.

Route 7 overpass in Falls Church

The resurfacing of the east bound lane has been completed and opened. The west bound lane is now closed for its resurfacing.

Suggestion about incidents on the trail

The recent posting about the incidents on the W&OD brought a suggestion from a reader.

"Here’s a posting it would help to add since you mentioned the two incidents/attacks

on trail because it may show that ALL these attacks are linked as well as

help warn women who use the trail."

Washington Post August 4th article

In addition you will find a composite picture and a news release from the Vienna Police Department in this blog back in August of 2009.

Let's work together to make the Trail safer. Report suspicious activity to the police.

Trail Safety

From: Frantz Desamour >Date: Fri, Jan 15, 2010 at 4:02 PMSubject: ExposureTo:First District: There have been four recent incidents where a male has beenexposing himself to female joggers along the W&OD trail duringafternoon/evening hours. He is described as a White Male wearing a hood ormask with a protruding belly and pale legs. Since he is nude when theexposures occur he either lives nearby or stashes his clothing somewherealong the trail before the exposure. The latest incident occurred lastnight at 1950 hrs in the area of 1900 Sycamore St .As a reminder, please call the police non emergency 703-558-2222 should yousee the suspect or suspicious activity.ThanksCaptain Frantz DesamourArlington County Police Department1425 North Courthouse RoadArlington , Virginia 22201

Trail Information

The September 2006 issue of SPOKES contained an informative article on this trail. It can be found at http://yellowbiketales.blogspot.com/2008/02/washington-old-dominion-trail-in.html

Trail conditions in Reston

The trail is mostly clear in Reston. Where there is ice, there is usually a narrow asphalt section that can be ridden. Today we rode from Sunrise Valley Dr in Reston (around mile 15.5) to Sterling Blvd and we didn't need to walk the bikes. Didn't get a chance to check the stretch of trail just west of Hunter Mill Rd which is usually the last to be clear.

Icy conditions in Reston

We finally got a chance to check out the Reston portion of the W&OD Trail today. While much of the trail is clear, there is ice at the usual spots. These photos were taken late this morning (Monday, Dec. 28). They were all taken facing east.

The first photo shows ice at the Sallie Mae bridge across from Plaza America. It's not rideable without studded tires.



The second image image shows the hill on the approach to Buckthorn Lane (looking east). Both sides of the hill are ice covered.



The final image is looking toward Hunter Mill Road. This section will likely be the last to melt. There's a tree lined bank on the south side that prevents the sun from doing it's job.

No cross country ski tracks were seen on either the main trail or the unpaved trail.

Wanted: Information

In recent weeks there have been assaults on the W&OD Trail. Above is a composite drawing of a man being sought for questioning. Also above is the Vienna Police Department Media Information Release describing the incident on July 15 and giving contact information for officers working on the case.

Please contact law enforcement officials if you have information.

New Link from W&OD to 4 Mile Run

The twin underpasses that allow a transition from the W&OD Trail to Four Mile Run are open. These photos show travel from the end of the W&OD at South Shirlington Road, under I-395, and then under West Glebe Road.

Oh, what a difference this link makes. The pathway before this link caused the trail user to go to Shirlington, cross the bridge behind the WETA Building, travel city streets, and eventually connect with the Four Mile Run Trail at the corner of West Glebe and South Glebe. The reduction in time and the reduction to exposure to pretty heavy traffic make this link a delight.

Cameras at Maple Ave.

Hey gang!

If you haven't noticed, there are now "red light cameras" on top of the crossing signal poles on the trail at the Maple Ave. crossing in Vienna! The cameras are aimed right at the crosswalk, but I'm not sure if the idea is to catch motorists or cyclists. I've seen enough of both misbehave at this busy intersection, so perhaps it's an attempt to monitor both. So next time you're there, smile! You're on Candid Camera!

Valet Parking for ViVa! Vienna! on Sunday and Monday

Memorial Day is here early this year. ViVa! Vienna! starts Saturday, May 23rd and on Sunday, May 24th and Monday, May 25th bikes@vienna will be providing Valet Cycle Parking so you can ride your bike or trike to the festival and leave it with bikes@vienna for safekeeping. The service will be available from 10 AM to 6 PM on both Sunday and Monday.

This may be the best ViVa! ever if the weather cooperates. The Rotary Club of Vienna will host twenty-three amusement rides, more than a dozen food vendors, hours of entertainment, and fill over 300 vendor slots on Church, Dominion, and Mill Streets. You can examine the details at http://www.vivaviennava.org

Perfect enjoyment on the Memorial Day weekend could be a bike ride to Vienna to explore the joys of ViVa! Vienna!

W&OD Trail Patrol Seeks New Members

The W&OD Trail runs through the communities of Arlington, Falls Church, Vienna, Reston, Herndon, Sterling, Ashburn, Leesburg, Hamilton, and Purcellville. The Trail Patrol is seeking new members to be on-scene ambassadors of safety, courtesy, information, and goodwill. All adult trail users--cyclists, walker, runners, skaters, carriage pushers, dog walkers, horse riders, or wheel chair users--are eligible to apply.

Orientation sessions are planned for this spring and summer. For further information and signup please go to http://www.wodfriends.org/ or call the trail office at 703-729-0596.

Progress on the W&OD/Four Mile Link

The I-395 Underpass which will allow traffic to move from the W&OD Trail to Four Mile Run is near completion. I do not recommend trying to use the underpass because there is still work being done, but as you can read below in a message received from a bikes@vienna customer, the time is almost here for that long awaited improvement to be used.

# IS395 Underpass - On Friday, I rode from my house to the Potomac and back on the 4 Mile Run bike path. I found that the new bike path extension under IS395 is essentially finished, so I used it. Several other cyclists and walkers were doing the same. This allows cyclists to do the Arlington loop without the long detour at Shirlington circle. There were signs at both ends saying that the new bike path was still a construction zone. Moreover, by just looking at the state of work, I could see that they still have some final installation and clean-up to do on railings. However, the remaining work is not safety related and is mostly right of way protection as opposed to user protection (i.e., stay on the pavement). Finally, at the Shirlington end, they are doing some road work that makes it inconvenient to get to the new bike path segment, but it is doable if you are careful.

Snow on the trail

The snow on the Trail is now packed and icy and will take several days to melt. The plowed spot in the photo is from a Reston Association plow; they end their plowing at the trail edge. Somehow the Reston Association has figured out a way to keep their trails clear all winter. They purchased a used trail snow plow and use it when there is an accumulation of snow on their 55 miles of trails (more than the total length of the W&OD Trail). According to the trail manager, there is no noticeable damage to the trails and no additional maintenance is needed because of the plowing.

One reason NVRPA says that the Trail is not plowed is to allow cross country skiers to use the trail when it snows. You can't see it from the photo, but there were ski tracks on the trail; the unpaved gravel trail to the right. Do cross country skiers really need two trails? There was no evidence of skiing on the main trail and it wouldn't be feasible because of all the foot tracks (and a couple of mountain bike tracks).

There are other issues involved in the decision to plow the Trail, but I seems like they can be overcome. Anyone willing to write a Transportation Enhancement grant application for funds to plow the trail?

Still icy at Hunter Mill Road

There is still a stretch of about 100 meters of ice over the trail just west of Hunter Mill Road. It's bad enough that I had to walk the bike. There are a few other small patches of ice under the Dulles Toll Road and near the Sallie Mae bridge in Reston. This photo was taken looking east toward Hunter Mill Road. Sure would be nice if these shady areas could be plowed before the snow turns to ice and then takes many days to melt.

Icy Trail!

Well, we had our first real snowstorm, and true to form, we got freezing rain on top of it. This makes for an exciting mix of ice and slush and chunky snow. The trail is a mess, as you might have guessed. I rode the mile or so from my house to the shop today, grateful for my studded tires. I'm really not sure I would have been able to navigate this without them. I sure wouldn't have felt as at ease trying. They really do keep you stuck to the path!










The picture above was taken just on the western limits of town, heading in to downtown Vienna. It think it shows pretty clearly what the overall conditions were at about 10 am on Thursday the 29th. To the right is a closeup of the surface. As you can see, there's a lot of broken up chunks of ice and a very bumpy surface from footprints. All in all, a real challenge to ride on. I was fortunate in that a maintenance truck was working its way down the trail ahead of me, so when I could stay in the ruts from their tires, it was smoother sailing. The challenge of course is staying in those ruts!



Be careful out there. I'd suggest walking for now, unless you have studs. But if you have studs, it's actually kinda fun out there... just allow more time, as it's slower going.

What's up? Tiger Lilies!

Apologies to Woody Allen fans for that groaner of a title.

But it is that time of year, when the tiger lilies are in bloom and looking spectacular along the trail.

The best I've seen are on the stretch of the trail that parallels Shreve Road. Regulars on that stretch will know where I mean... behind the house that has the lovely flowers all the time.

The saddest looking ones were the couple of plucky individuals that are lingering at the edge of the huge housing construction site near Cedar Avenue. One or two single flowers perched right on the edge of a landscape stripped bare. Progress? Growth? Sigh.

Graffiti on the Trail

I'm guessing most folks who ride through the Vienna area have already seen it, but someone spray painted that white concrete thing that has the date 1860 (I think) on it, near the town line on the east side, near mile 10.5. Until now I've really never seen any graffiti or vandalism along the trail (aside from the destruction of vending machines at Smith's Switch a few years back), so this was kinda shocking to see.


On a happier note, I got some nice pictures of the dogwoods on my way in today.

Wet! But beautiful...

Well, as you probably could have guessed, yesterday was a wet day along the W&OD. I rode to work about 9:30 or so, and it was raining pretty hard the whole way. With the added excitement of thunder and lightning... just close enough to make me glad I wasn't out there too long. There are lots of puddles on the trail, and a LOT of standing water in the low spots alongside the trail. And the various drainage ditches and small creek beds which are usually dry or nearly so are running high and wild.

On the other hand, the dogwoods are blooming and look absolutely lovely! And the peepers are loving the wet, as was the frog I saw hopping across the path last night on my way home. All in all, a fun day out there, once I got used to the idea that it was going to be wet. I was grateful for my fenders and Burley rain jacket.

W&OD Trail Patrol Seeks New Members

The W&OD Trail runs through the communities of Arlington, Falls Church, Vienna, Reston, Herndon, Sterling, Ashburn, Leesburg, Hamilton, and Purcellville. The Trail Patrol is seeking new members to be on-scene ambassadors of safety, courtesy, information, and goodwill. All adult trail users--cyclists, walker, runners, skaters, carriage pushers, dog walkers, horse riders, or wheel chair users--are eligible to apply.



Four orientation sessions are already scheduled for 2008: The first will be held on Thursday, April 17 in Alexandria from 7 to 9 pm, the second will be held on Saturday, April 26 in the Ashburn Library from 2 to 4 pm. The third will be at the Raflo Park in Leesburg on Saturday, May 3 from 2 to 4 pm and the forth will be Saturday, May 17 at the Vienna Community Center from 10 am to noon.



For further information and signup please contact John Boone at 703-726-6993 or jmboone1@verizon.net.

Beautiful Day to Ride!

It's getting near that time of the year when riding on the W&OD is very enjoyable, as you can see from the photo of the grazing deer just off the trail near Hunter Mill Road. Between Vienna and Leesburg there were quite a few people out delighting in the sunshine and 40 degree weather. Okay, so you needed gloves.

Clear with some icy patches

Well, much of the trail is clear, or has a clear path through the icy bits. A few places, particularly between Gallows and Cedar, are icy from edge to edge, but they are short enough that you can either carefully navigate it or walk it.

One thing to be wary of is that it's frozen enough that the footprints and tire tracks are solid bumps and grooves, and they will jar you and cause your wheels to go in surprising directions if you're not careful.

There is a chance of more snow this evening (Thursday), but not a great chance, so it might get trickier.

Also today I spotted a small flock of juncos and a young fox ducking into the brush. A good ride in.

The first photo is taken near mile 10, between Gallows and Cedar, showing both clear and covered trail. The second is a closeup of the nature of the surface in such stretches.

Snow again

Well, as you might guess, the trail is a mess after Thursday's snow. I rode to and from work on Friday, and most of the trail from Falls Church to Vienna is still covered. Friday morning was particularly messy when I rode in at around 9:30... a thick, semi-frozen-yet-slushy mix that made riding, even with studs, a challenge. I found that I was either getting bogged down by slush where other people had NOT passed, or had my wheels knocked around by bumps and tires tracks where they HAD. Ugh. The best thing I can say is that I certainly got my exercise yesterday morning! It actually took me about twice as long as usual.

The ride home was considerably better. Things had been packed down a bit more, and it was cold enough to freeze, so getting stuck in slush or snow was less of a problem by far. I still wouldn't describe it as smooth, but it's much better, and there are now some open patches of pavement. It's tricky sometimes at night, as you can't see what's coming quite as well, but I think that might actually have some benefit, in that you sail on, blissfully unaware of a hazard, and thus don't tense up, which is half the challenge to riding on snow or ice.

We're supposed to get a little snow today, and it's supposed to stay cold, so I doubt it's going to change a lot out there today. Be careful, but have fun.

Bare Trees and a Fox

Not a lot of folks on the trail these days... mostly walkers and a few runners, at least by the time I'm on the trail in the morning (9am) or evening (7 or 8pm). And as y0u can tell, the leaves are basically all gone.

This morning I saw a pretty big, healthy-looking fox crossing the trail near where the den was last spring. He scrambled up the embankment and looked down at me... until I stopped to try to get a picture, when he vanished. I wonder if this is one of last spring's kits or their mom or dad. Pretty big, and I don't know how quickly they reach adult size.

Update on power line along W&OD Trail

According to the Wash Cycle and this article in Leesburg Today, the State Corporation Commission examiner has recommended that the proposed new power line between Leesburg and Purcellville be placed parallel to the Trail, on what is known as the Modified D route.

The Modified D route was created by Anderson after conducting a site visit last year. In this week's recommendation of the Modified D route, Anderson said, with overhead construction would "reasonably" minimize the adverse impacts to the scenic assets, historic districts and environment of the area concerned.

That is not likely to allay the concerns of those using or living along the trail, who note that widespread clearing will have to be undertaken whether the route is on the trail or paralleling it.

All clear!

Well, that didn't take long. Friday morning the trail was just about completely snow-covered, Friday night it was slushy all over, and Saturday evening it was clear of snow entirely, even on the bridges.

So, when's the next storm?

Studded tires are back!

Yep, it's that time of year again! Thursday I drove to work, because my winter commuter was a the shop, halfway through mounting the studded tires and internal hub gear. I finished both of those up and rode in today. The trail between I-66 and downtown Vienna was mostly covered with packed snow, with only a few short clear stretches. The photo here is from just west of Gallows Road, looking west.

It looks like several other riders have been there since the snow fell, which is fun to see. I was really glad to have my studded tires (Nokian Hakkapelittas) today, as it was pretty slippery and bumpy on the trail. I'm sure with skill and patience and a serene mind, one can navigate this with regular tires, but I find the serenity of mind is much easier to come by when I know I've got a hundred-odd metal spikes per tire keeping me stuck to the trail!



Either way, be careful out there. Pick your path based on the smoothest, best packed areas, trying to avoid any serious ruts from other tire tracks. Also, it's best not to stay too close to the edges, just so you have room to manuver. And you generally have more control when pedaling, rather than coasting.

I've also included a picture of the front end of my Miyata 210 commuter, showing the studded tire, front rack and basket, and Lumotec generator-powered headlight. Now that I've switched it over to an 8 speed Shimano internal hub, it's pretty much an ideal commuter.

It's that time of year...

... when, in addition to the change in color, you have to watch for wet leaves on the trail. Remember, they can be very slippery and cause you to lose traction before you realize it.

But they sure are pretty, huh?

This was taken near mile 9.5, between Gallows and Cedar, but I'm sure these conditions exist in many locations.

It's dark out there

It's that time of year when more people are on the trail before or after dark. On my evening commute I see many people in dark clothes without anything reflective material. Approaching cyclists have very little warning in these situations. Many cyclists are also riding without lights. I've heard of one serious accident so far this year; two cyclists without lights who collided head-on. Luckily the injuries were not major.

Lights don't cost much and even the smallest ones at least let others know you are out there.

Critter report!

Well, on my ride in to work this morning, I saw this fella avidly staring into the brush... no doubt waiting for some small creature to make a fatal mistake! He didn't even notice I passed a few feet away from him.

This evening on the ride home, after dark, I was rolling along between Cedar and Gallows when a movement just out of my headlight beam caught my eye. I couldn't see what it was at first, but quickly realized it was a fox, a few feet away and scampering off the trail ahead of me. I wonder if it was one of the group of kits from last spring.

Piney Branch bridge now open

On my commute home today I was surprised to see the detour gates had come down at the entrance to the Piney Branch bridge. There was some fresh asphalt leading up to the bridge as I headed west. There is still a large gap in the asphalt but it was a treat not to have to ride the gravel detour. My body was expecting the bumps at that point in my ride, having ridden the detour almost daily for over a year, and it was a somehow odd sensation to ride smoothly over the bridge. I hope it's permanent.

Piney Branch bridge repairs near completion

It appears that the Piney Branch bridge repair work is nearly completed. The stonework on the bridge abutments is repaired and today there was work being done on the bridge deck. It looks like the work should be completed in the next week or so.

Grape Kool-aid

It is not a hallucination: the trail smells like grape kool-aid. You have not been transported back to 2nd grade or off to Jonestown. The kudzu is in bloom (left photo near mile 10). This Japanese plant was introduced across the southern U.S. in the 1930s and 40s as a forage crop, and to reduce soil erosion. Now it is considered an invasive weed.

More purple: The poke berries are getting ripe. The berries are not edible to people, although birds and wildlife can use them. This is certainly a handsome plant! The photo below was taken directly across the trail from the Kudzu.

Caution: Tree Trimming

The crews are trimming trees along the W&OD these days. Be especially careful when passing the trucks and chain saw crews. They have been considerate in my experience, but it is still a dangerous operation. This morning I snapped a photo of two men high in the trees south of the trail near Vienna (left). One of the men is cutting the top of the tree he is in. The photo on the right is an image taken moments after the top fell. The crew was in Falls Church yesterday.

Monster plants and little friends

We have entered that part of the year where the monster plants dominate the trail. I'm talking about the ragweed. The GIANT ragweed that is 12 or more feet tall looming over us with its spikey florets (right photo near mile 10). This is a shrubby, messy looking plant, but more to the point: It is responsible for untold misery in hay-fever sufferers. It is a wind-pollinated plant, and when you are 12 feet tall, you catch every breeze, if you catch my drift.

Fortunately for those of us with limited allergic reactions, there are other, nicer, features of the mid-september W&OD. One of my favorites is Gaura. The blossoms are only open early in the morning...they are wispy and butterfly-like. The plants are also big, but not as tall as the giant ragweed. Maybe 4-5 feet tall and covered with white-pink blossoms (left photo just east of Cedar Lane).

Most exciting for this time of year are our little friends, the Monarch butterflies. The females laid their eggs on our milkweed plants in mid August and now we need to try to NOT MOW THE MILKWEED before the little ones get through this critical life phase. The Monarchs have human friends as evidenced by the signs and flagging at several points along the trail (below, near mile 11).