Old Dominion Wildlife

The Appalachian Trail cuts right through Linden, thus providing an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy hiking. The two-mile section just south of Linden, between Route 55 and Route 638 is a good one anytime as the trail passes through some pretty meadows as well as mountainous woodlands.

Another option is to hike the trails of Richard Thompson Wildlife Management Area just north of Linden accessible from Route 638. Each year in early May, an abundance of trillium wildflowers are in bloom there. The white and sometimes pink blooming flowers are remarkable to see. The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club maintains the trails and they also offer maps and guidebooks available through their online store; the Linden area shown on their Map 8.

There is Appalachian Trail parking near Route 55 by continuing on Route 55 East past Route 638 to Route 725. After making a left on Route 725, you will find the hiker’s parking lot on your right. Additionally, the Richard Thompson Wildlife Management area is accessible from multiple parking lots on the right side of Route 638 just a short distance past Fox Meadow Vineyards.

While in the area, you may also want to visit Linden Vineyards, which produces some of my favorite Virginia wines. Additionally, the Apple House is located just west on Rte 55 at I-66’s exit 13. The Apple House is Linden’s best (and only) restaurant, featuring barbeque sandwich platters, apple donuts, and souvenirs. Their bbq platter comes with a great version of baked beans, containing pineapple and other ingredients. There is also a convenience store is located at the intersection of Rte 638 and Rte 55.

On the Fairfax County, Virginia side of Bull Run, several parks and an 18 mile trail provide an environment for outstanding hiking, horseback riding, and trail running. Every April, the northern section of the trail gives visitors an unforgettable display of Virginia bluebells.

About the Trail

Just 25 miles west of Washington, DC, the Bull Run–Occoquan Trail begins just north of Manassas, VA and follows Bull Run and the Occoquan Reservoir downstream to Fountainhead Regional Park. Anyone in the Washington, D.C. area exploring the trail is given a wonderful experience in nature without having to drive farther away to the mountains. Hikers, equestrians, and runners cross over picturesque small streams, traverse rolling hills, and pass by historic Civil War sites. Although bicyclists are prohibited from riding on the Bull Run—Occoquan Trail, mountain bikers are not entirely left out of the fun, as there is a separate technical mountain bike trail network at the southern end of the park system in Fountainhead Regional Park.

The Bull Run—Occoquan trail has numerous access points, from Bull Run Regional Park at the upstream terminus to Fountainhead Regional Park at the downstream end. In between, visitors can access the trail at Route 28 south of Centreville, at Hemlock Regional Park near Clifton, and at Bull Run Marina off of Yates Ford Road.

The Trail is maintained by volunteers with the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. I maintained a section downstream from Bull Run Marina for a few years before moving further away.

Clifton

Those accessing the trail at Hemlock Park should not miss stopping in the quaint town of Clifton, Virginia. The Clifton General Store is the perfect place to pick up snacks and cold drinks. The town also has two fine restaurants, the Hermitage Inn (French cuisine) and Heart and Hand (American cuisine), as well as the Canary Cottage, a bed and breakfast.

Virginia Bluebells

Each April, Bull Run Regional Park showcases the most impressive display of Virginia bluebells anywhere. Virginia bluebells are small, bluish-purple wildflowers that prosper in the wet soil lining Cub Run and Bull Run. The bluebell fields are concentrated on the north end of the Bull Run—Occoquan Trail between Rte. 28 and Bull Run Regional Park. Bull Run Regional Park employees set up a special Bluebell trail loop for visitors to enjoy the experience.

Trail Runs

The Virginia Happy Trails Running Club hosts training runs and footraces each year on the Bull Run—Occoquan Trail, including a 50 mile trail run and a women’s half marathon held each year in the late summer. I’ve completed the 50 miler three times, including once with my wife. My wife has also finished the half marathon three times. The club’s trail runs provide participants with a fun atmosphere and a spirit of camaraderie that is not often found at competitive road races.