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A nicely maintained long distance trail between Bull Run Regional Park and Fountainhead Regional Park.


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Map Key

17.9

Miles

28.8

KM

96%

Runnable

294' 90 m

High

125' 38 m

Low

1,531' 467 m

Up

1,467' 447 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

27%

Max Grade (15°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The gates at both entrances are supposed to open at first light.

Overview

This is an undulating trail along the Bull Run River with a few road crossings. The southern portion of the trail is a bit hillier than the beginning. The trail is usually well-marked with blue marks on the trees.

Runner Notes

A few roots and rocks occasionally.

Description

Whether training for a long-distance thru-run or looking for an all-day point-to-point adventure, the Bull Run-Occoquan Trail is your best option in the greater DC area. As shown, runners should plan on getting a ride back to the starting point or setting up a shuttle.

Expect a good amount of ups and downs with a total of over 1,500' of elevation gain through the entire trail. It can be rund in either direction, with the higher sections to the south and lower sections in the north and middle. Passing through a couple parks, there are a few access points but not too many which adds to the remote feeling of this stretch of trail.

Given the proximity to Bull Run and its joining creeks, sections of the trail can be pretty muddy especially if it has rained recently. There are also sections of rocky tread that require careful footing, especially for folks moving quickly along the trail.

Flora & Fauna

Waterfowl along the river.

Contacts

Shared By:

Jeffrey Edmonds

Trail Ratings

  4.1 from 25 votes

#756

Overall
  4.1 from 25 votes
5 Star
32%
4 Star
52%
3 Star
12%
2 Star
4%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#28

in Virginia

#756

Overall
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8,341 Since Jan 23, 2016
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Photos

View during winter.
Jan 23, 2016 near Buckhall, VA
Next to Bull Run on the Bull Run Occoquon Trail
Aug 19, 2017 near Buckhall, VA
Bull Run.
Jan 23, 2016 near Buckhall, VA
Early morning fog.
Jan 23, 2016 near Buckhall, VA
Early morning entrance from Fountain Head. Plenty of parking.
Jan 23, 2016 near Lake Ridge, VA
Enjoy great views of the reservoir along the Bull Run Occoquan Trail.
Nov 4, 2019 near Buckhall, VA

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Minor Issues 51 days ago
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