Hiking

Hiking trails meander through 37 miles of Prince William Forest Park, winding along the two forks of Quantico Creek and crossing the short ridges in the park's interior. The park's Scenic Drive, Visitor Center, and campground parking areas provides access to virtually all the trails and features here. While there are only a few loop trails, many of the trails below can be combined into short or long distance hiking loops. If you can't make it to the park, use the interactive trail guide below to explore.

You can also explore the park trails by thematic e-walks such as our Geology E-Walk.

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Birch Bluff Trail

A moderately easy trail near the visitor center than includes good creekside views (1.8 miles)

Cabin Branch Pyrite Mine Trail

A moderately difficult trail that provides a look at the site of the Cabin Branch Mine (0.3 miles)

Chopawamsic Trail

A moderately difficult trail through the rugged and heavily forested Chopawamsic Backcountry Area. This area requires a permit (2.0 miles)

The Crossing Trail

An easy trail with many historical features (0.5 miles)

Farms to Forest Trail

A self-guided tour near the Oak Ridge Campground of an area where old farmland has reverted back to mature forest (1.0 miles)

Farms to Forest Extension

Located off the Farms to Forest Trail, this trail offers excellent creekside views of beaver habitat (2.7 miles)

High Meadows Trail

A trail that begins on the ridgetop and descends to the South Fork of Quantico Creek, including a wide variety of habitats (2.1 miles)

Laurel Loop Trail

Access this short, loop trail near the visitor center and travel to the banks of the South Fork Quantico Creek (1.4 miles)

Little Run Loop

A short yet moderately difficult trail that includes excellent creekside habitats.

Mary Byrd Branch

A short, easy trail that includes excellent opportunities for beaver viewing (0.5 miles)

North Valley Trail

Trail leads along Quantico Creek and includes small waterfalls with excellent opportunities for geologic study (2.6 miles)

Oak Ridge Trail

An easy, level trail (1.6 miles)

Piedmont Forest Trail

An easy, rubberized trail that includes a wildlife viewing platform with benches (0.2 miles)

Quantico Cascades Trail

The shortest and easiest access to the cascading water descending along Quantico Creek (0.7 miles)

Know Before You Go

Planning a visit to the park this winter? Check the latest updates on safety guidelines, available services, and more.

Turkey Run Ridge Trail

A moderately difficult trail between the Turkey Run Education Center and the South Fork of Quantico Creek (1.4 miles)

 

Hiking Safety

Hiking is done at the visitor's own risk. Please observe these tips for a fun and safe hike.

• Take five minutes to stretch your muscles before and after your hike. Warm up by starting slowly, then pick up the pace.

• Plan your trip before you go and let someone know your route.

• Bring a small first aid kit, always wear sunscreen, take several rests, and carry a map and compass.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Always keep dogs on a leash

• Follow tick prevention and wildlife safety tips.

Note: Rocks in park streams can be extremely slippery. Please stay on marked trails and observe park rules.