[cdouble]

The MTBR trail directory for Fairfax area doesn't have any recent postings and there was talk of trails closing, so looking for some current local knowledge. I will be in the area next week on business, wondering if any good local trails for a mid-pack sport-class XC/AM rider. Preference is to ride SS. Willing to drive 30min or so if necessary. Thanks in advance.

Chris

 

[wuzilla]

Go to www.more-mtb.org - look in the forums under the "Where to Ride" category. That has the most up-to-date info on the popular local spots. Fairfax is a big place - where exactly are you going to be?

 

[cdouble]

I will be at the Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks. Looks like it is near intersection of routes 66 and 50. The list at more-mtb looks pretty extensive (thanks) but hard to scan quickly for location, ratings, etc. Are there some trails that you suggest I look at closely? Again I am mid-pack sport-class, looking for XC/AM trails, prefer to ride SS but will bring gears if necessary. Thanks!

 

[blantonator]

fountainhead. Gears would be helpful, but not necessary.

 

[wuzilla]

fountainhead. Gears would be helpful, but not necessary.

I agree - that's the closest trail to where you're staying, and anything else that comes close to competing is a 45-60min drive.

Wakefield is fun too, and not too far off, but without a guide, you'll get lost.

 

[Evan55]

yes, fountainhead is a great trail for a midpack sport rider. lots of guys ride it SS but it does have some steep hills - up and down. It is definately more enjoyable with gears.

Ive never ridden it SS but Id probably do 32t front 20t rear if I did (on a 29er)

 

[pschultz]

Here are your best N. VA options:

- Fountainhead -- the most demanding of the standard N. VA routes, but really not that tough; relatively well-marked; fun
- Wakefield -- flowy, well-designed; if you're going to be in town on one of the next Wednesdays, show up for the evening race --- good competition, low key (BTW, the place is small enough that even if you get a bit turned around, just ask someone to point you back to the parking lot and you'll be fine)
- Reston / Skatequest / Lake Fairfax -- this is my backyard stomping ground; a fun 10-mile loop can be done by linking the main trail from Skatequest to Rt. 7 to the Cross-County Trail to the W&OD trail back to Skatequest; show up on most weekday evenings in the Skatequest parking lot to get more info and/or riding buddies
- Laurel Hill -- this former grounds of an old prison is very flowy and fast; no climbs; well-designed; only two areas with anything that might be called "technical"

All of these are within 30 minutes or so of your location.

Have fun!

 

[redline814]

Sorry for the short notice, but a group of us are riding Reston tonight (and every Wed night...for you next week). It is also known as "Difficult Run" and connects to the "CCT". We have a SS or 2 that usually shows up.

6pm and the trail starts here --> *****************/icwrw

1800 Michael Faraday Ct
Reston, VA 20190