Bull Run-Occoquan Trail

Dogs Leashed

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

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.

A few roots and rocks occasionally.

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.

Waterfowl along the river.