Pimmit Run Trail

Originally constructed by Fairfax Trails and Streams, a multi-use trail volunteer group that pioneered the Cross County Trail, this trail is now maintained jointly by Fairfax Trails and Streams, the Potomac Heritage Trail Association and MORE. At each road crossing, when hiking from west to east, look for a small map and signpost detailing the next segment of the trail. The FCPA makes it easy to follow the twisty trail. The Pimmit Run Trail begins at Great Falls St., just north of Kirby Road. This first short section is a fun warm-up for what is to come, with some turns and narrow sections right above the stream. Crossing Westmoreland St., you start the main event. The trail here is flat and will inspire thoughts of the Creek Trail at Wakefield Park. Be conscious of other trail users, as the trail is popular with mountain bikers, dog walkers and other local residents. This section ends with a run up to Old Dominion Road, be careful as you climb past the small staircase. After crossing Old Dominion, turn right on the bike path and left at the trail sign. This will bring you to the first crossing of Pimmit Run. A bit further through bamboo forests will bring you to the final road crossing at Chesterbrook Rd. Cross the road and turn right, then left to the next stream crossing and a wide field section. The final stream crossing is at the end of the field. Cross the stream and turn left. All of a sudden, the houses that have lined the trails are pushed back, and the stream buffer zone widens. You'll find yourself wondering if you are 10 minutes from the Capitol, or out in the National Forest. The trail becomes rockier and more technical, with a short, ledgy bench cut section. Crossing the floodplain, there are numerous roots and logs to keep you on your toes. Take your final right at the star-shaped blaze and exit the trail onto Bryan Branch Road. This trail entry represents the western portion of the trail. The eastern portion picks up at the Marie Butler-Leven Preserve off of Kirby Road. The first portion of the eastern segment is on Fairfax County Park Authority land (frequently overgrown), while the majority of the eastern segment is on National Park Service lands administered by the George Washington Parkway.