The best running trails around Dunn Loring
4.7
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986
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Jogging around Dunn Loring offers access to a network of trails, primarily centered around the Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail and Dunn Loring Park. The region features extensive paved and crushed-stone paths, providing varied surfaces for runners. Landscapes transition from suburban areas to more wooded surroundings, with gentle elevation changes along the W&OD Trail. Green spaces and a significant tree canopy enhance the outdoor running experience.
Best jogging routes around Dunn Loring
- The most popular jogging route is Old Dominion Trail – Piney Branch loop from Vienna, a 6.8 miles (10.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 8 minutes to complete. This route utilizes a section of the prominent W&OD Trail, known for its long, straight stretches.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Old Dominion Trail – Caboose Brewery & Cafe loop from Dunn Loring–Merrifield, a difficult 11.3 miles (18.2 km) path. This route follows the W&OD Trail, offering a mix of paved surfaces and green corridors.
- Local runners also love the Old Dominion Trail loop from Dunn Loring–Merrifield, an 11.3 miles (18.2 km) trail leading through varied landscapes along the W&OD corridor, often completed in about 1 hour 53 minutes.
- Jogging around Dunn Loring is defined by extensive paved trails, shaded park routes, and connections to a broader regional trail system. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging long-distance runs.
- The routes in Dunn Loring are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 1300 runners have used komoot to explore Dunn Loring's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
21
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
40
runners
18.2km
01:53
90m
90m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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29
runners
9.74km
01:00
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
runners
6.98km
00:43
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
runners
9.75km
01:01
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great place for coffee and food. Usually have free water available by the W&OD trail if you need rehydration on route!
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The Old Dominion Trail is officially part of the Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park and is a 45‑mile paved rail‑trail winding through Fairfax County. The trail is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists.
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West End Park sits right off the W&OD—an easy spot to roll in, catch some shade, and take a quick break. The path has a few root bumps, so slow down and enjoy the greenery. There’s also a water fountain where you can refill before getting back on the trail.
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No matter what you like to have on your ride you can find it here. There's great beer, and food, but also coffee and pastries. It's location along the W&OD Trail make it the perfect spot to begin and end your ride, or make it your turn around point to have a break and a beverage.
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The Washington & Old Dominion Trail is a paved two-lane bike that runs for 45 miles. This segment between Vienna and Reston has relatively few road crossings. You share the trail with hikers and other trail users.
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The Washington & Old Dominion Trail is a 45-mile trail that runs from Shirlington to Purcellville. The entire trail is paved and runs through a mix of open fields, suburban and urban landscapes.
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Great place for a break whilst riding the W&OD trail. Good food and beer.
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Right next to the W&OD trail, great place to take a break, drink a locally brewed beer and enjoy some grub. Some outside seating available, but very busy on sunny days and weekends.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in the Dunn Loring area?
There are over 60 dedicated running routes around Dunn Loring, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels. These routes have been explored by more than 1300 runners using komoot.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the running trails in Dunn Loring?
The running routes in Dunn Loring primarily feature extensive paved surfaces, especially along the Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail, which also has a parallel crushed-stone path. You'll find a mix of suburban stretches and more wooded surroundings, with generally gentle elevation changes.
Are there any family-friendly or stroller-friendly running paths in Dunn Loring?
Yes, Dunn Loring Park offers well-maintained, paved trails that are 4-8 feet wide and provide plenty of shade, making them suitable for families and strollers. The W&OD Trail also offers long, straight, paved sections that are generally easy to navigate with a stroller.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Dunn Loring?
Many trails in the Dunn Loring area, including sections of the W&OD Trail and Dunn Loring Park, are dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant environment for all users.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I might see while running in Dunn Loring?
While running, you might encounter historical markers along the W&OD Trail detailing the area's past. Nearby attractions include the Bluemont Caboose and the Caboose Brewery. For natural sights, Scott's Run Falls is also accessible in the wider region.
Are there any circular running routes in the Dunn Loring area?
Yes, there are several circular running paths. For example, the Old Dominion Trail – Piney Branch loop from Vienna is a popular 6.8-mile option. Another is the West End Park – West End Park loop from Merrifield, which is nearly 10 km long.
Where can I find parking or access trails via public transport in Dunn Loring?
The W&OD Trail has various access points with parking along its length. For public transport, the Dunn Loring–Merrifield Metro station provides convenient access to nearby sections of the W&OD Trail and other local running paths.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Dunn Loring?
The running routes in Dunn Loring are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Runners often praise the extensive paved trails, the shade provided by the tree canopy, and the connectivity to a broader regional trail system, offering options for various ability levels.
Are there any cafes or places to get refreshments near the running routes?
Yes, especially near the W&OD Trail. The Caboose Brewery and The Bike Lane Bicycle Shop and Brewery are popular spots that offer refreshments and are often incorporated into running loops like the Old Dominion Trail – Caboose Brewery & Cafe loop from Dunn Loring–Merrifield.
When is the best time of year to go running in Dunn Loring?
Northern Virginia generally offers pleasant running conditions in spring and fall, with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, but the shaded sections of trails, particularly in Dunn Loring Park, provide some relief. Winter running is also possible, though conditions may vary.
Are there any routes that offer a more challenging long-distance run?
For those seeking a longer, more challenging run, routes like the Wakefield Park loop from Boulevard Estates cover over 18 km and are rated as difficult. The continuous nature of the W&OD Trail also allows for extended runs with varied terrain as it gradually declines from west to east.
Do I need any special permits to jog on trails in Dunn Loring or Fairfax County?
Generally, no special permits are required for jogging on public trails in Dunn Loring or Fairfax County, including the W&OD Trail and Dunn Loring Park. These trails are open for public recreational use.
Most popular attractions around Dunn Loring
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