Loudoun County

Implementation Plan

For The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail In Loudoun County

Prepared for the Loudoun County Parks and Recreation Department by the Northern Virginia Regional Commission July 2002 Acknowledgments i The Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their contributions to this project: Don Briggs, Superintendent of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail for the National Park Service; Cindy Welsh, Director of Loudoun County Department of Parks and Recreation; Kate Rudacille, Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority; and, members of the Loudoun County Open Space Advisory Commitee.

This report is an NVRC staff product to the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors and the Federal Highways Administration in fulfillment of a grant received from the Federal Highways Administration's Transportation and Community Grant Program. Any assessments, conclusions, or recommendations contained in this report represent the results of NVRC staff's technical investigation, and do not represent policy positions of the Northern Virginia Regional Commission unless so stated in an adopted resolution of said Commission. The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Loudoun County or the Federal Highway Administration or any of its subagencies.

Funding for this report was provided by: The Federal Highway Administration Transportation and Community Preservation Systems Program

U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration

Report prepared by: Douglas A. Pickford Director Economic & Heritage Resources Northern Virginia Regional Commission

with assistance from Jennifer Burke nvrc THE NORTHERN VIRGINIA REGIONAL COMMISSION 7535 Little River Turnpike, Suite 100 Annandale, Virginia 22003 703.642.0700 www.novaregion.org THE NORTHERN VIRGINIA ii REGIONAL COMMISSION as of 3/1/02

Chairman Hon. Katherine K. Hanley Vice Chairman Hon. Scott K. York Treasurer Hon. Kristen C. Umstattd Executive Director G. Mark Gibb Commissioners

Arlington County County Of Prince William Hon. Albert C. Eisenberg Hon. Hilda M. Barg City of Manassas Park Hon. Barbara A. Favola Edgar Bruce Holley Jesse Ludvigsen Hon. Jay N. Fisette Hon. John D. Jenkins Hon. William R. Wren Hon. Charles Monroe Don White Hon. Edgar S. Wilbourn, III Town of Dumfries County of Fairfax Hon. Christopher K. Brown Hon. Sharon Bulova City of Alexandria Hon. James C. Chesley Hon. William C. Cleveland Town of Herndon Hon. Gerald E. Connolly Hon. Redella S. Pepper Hon. Thomas Davis Rust Anna F. Dixon Robert Rapanut Brenda Z. Greene Town of Leesburg Hon. Penelope A. Gross City of Fairfax Hon. Kristen C. Umstattd Hon. Katherine K. Hanley Hon. Scott Silverthorn John F. Herrity Town of Purcellville Hon. Catherine M. Hudgins City of Falls Church Hon. John D. Marsh Hon. Elaine N. McConnell Lyman Krekel Hon. Stuart Mendelsohn Hon. Steven A. Rogers Town of Vienna Sally B. Ormsby Hon. Albert J. Boudreau Alice Keane Putman City of Manassas Lilla D. Richards Robert C. Goessman Hon. Harry J. Parrish, II County of Loudoun Charles J. Billand The Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) is an independent public agency char- Hon. Mark R. Herring tered in 1969 to plan for the physical, social and economic development of the region. The Com- Hon. Scott K. York mission serves in an advisory capacity to local, state and federal governments and as an advocate for Northern Virginia and its 1.8 million residents. The Commission's policies and programs are established by a 42 member Board of Commissioners comprised of elected officials and private citizens appointed by the governing bodies of the Counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William; the Cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, Manassas Park, and the Towns of Dumfries, Herndon, Leesburg, Purcellville and Vienna. Table of Contents iii

I. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 How to Use This Report ...... 1 II. POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL (PHNST) ...... 2 The Trail At A Glance ...... 2 PHNST Generalized Alignment Corridor Map ...... 3 III. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 4 Trail Characteristics of the PHNST in Loudoun County...... 4 Action Items ...... 5 IV. THE PHNST IN LOUDOUN COUNTY Map1 - Fairfax County Line to Countryside ...... 6 Recommended Alignment ...... 6 Opportunities and Issues...... 6 Next Steps ...... 7 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 7 Cost Estimate ...... 8 Map 1 ...... 9 Map 2 - Countryside to Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park ...... 10 Recommended Alignment ...... 10 Opportunities and Issues...... 10 Next Steps ...... 10 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 11 Cost Estimate ...... 12 Map 2 ...... 13 Map 3 - Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park to Leesburg and Vicinity ...... 14 Recommended Alignment ...... 14 Opportunities and Issues...... 15 Next Steps ...... 15 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 15 Cost Estimate ...... 16 Map 3 ...... 17 iv

Map 4 - Leesburg and Vicinity to Point of Rocks ...... 18 Recommended Alignment ...... 18 Opportunities and Issues...... 18 Next Steps ...... 19 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 19 Cost Estimate ...... 20 Map 4 ...... 21 Map 5 - Point of Rocks to Harpers Ferry National Historic Park ...... 22 Recommended Alignment ...... 22 Opportunities and Issues...... 22 Next Steps ...... 22 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 23 Cost Estimate ...... 24 Map 5 ...... 25 TABLES Table 1 - Estimated Trail Construction Costs ...... A-1 APPENDICES A. Trail Construction Cost Estimate Methodology B. Sources of Funding C. List of Existing Proffers and Easements D. Meeting Summary and List of Attendees to January 29, 2002 Board of Supervisors Work Session E. Draft National Park Service Certification Criteria F. Trail Contacts G. Sources of Information INTRODUCTION (PHNST) in Loudoun County. Circumstances along the corridor will change from day to day, as will cost estimates for construction (see With passage of the National Trails System Act of Appendix A for Cost Estimate Methodology) and the viability of rout- I. 1968, the Department of Interior (DOI) began to ing a trail within certain areas in the County. Anyone interested in a develop a national system of trails across the United particular section of the trail should consult one or more of the follow- States. Subsequently, the Department of Interior ing agencies or organizations: the Loudoun County Department of studied a number of other significant corridors to determine the feasi- Parks and Recreation; Loudoun County Department of Planning; the bility of establishing additional national scenic trails. In 1974, DOI Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority; the Town of Leesburg; or completed a feasibility study that led to Congressional enactment of the National Park Service (contact information is listed in Appendix Public Law 98-11 in March, 1983, and establishment of the Potomac D). All of these agencies have some jurisdiction and oversight of the Heritage National Scenic Trail (PHNST). The original concept pro- PHNST in Loudoun County. posed to establish 704 miles of connecting trails through Virginia, Penn- sylvania, Maryland and Washington D.C. The Act establishing the This report has divided the PHNST corridor in Loudoun County into Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail states that no lands outside the five logical sections. Each section begins with a chart that provides a exterior boundaries of any federally administered area may be acquired quick summary of the trail corridor, providing information on trail by the federal government for the Trail, making local initiatives ex- length; status of planning; trail surface type; major water bodies that tremely vital to completing the Trail. To date, approximately 300 miles are crossed; where to find the trail section on U.S. Geological Survey of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail have been designated. maps (7.5 minute quadrangles); and a list of the major parks and at- tractions that are linked by the trail. Each section also provides a writ- In the Fall of 2000, Congressman Jim Moran secured funding through ten description of the recommended alignment, as well as any alterna- the Federal Highway Administration's Transportation and Community tive alignments followed by a brief discussion of the opportunities and Systems Preservation Program to assist in the development and plan- issues that exist within the corridor. The chapter concludes with a sum- ning of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail in Virginia. A small mary of the immediate next steps that need to be taken to achieve con- portion of this was provided to the Northern Virginia Regional Com- struction of the trail in Loudoun County. mission to assist Loudoun County in developing an implementation Each section also includes an aerial photograph of the trail corridor, a plan for the PHNST. NVRC staff, with considerable assistance and detailed map and a spreadsheet that summarizes the specific costs, sta- guidance from local government staff, developed the recommendations tus and elements that need to be constructed before the trail is consid- contained within this report. The recommended alignment and poten- ered completed. Each trail element has an index number that can be tial alternative alignments for the PHNST are based on local govern- cross referenced to the adjoining map. The cost estimates do not take ment plans, studies and field work conducted by NVRC. into account any funds that may be needed for land acquisitions or the purchase of easements. HOW TO USE THIS REPORT The information contained within this report represents a snapshot of the conditions and status of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

PAGE 1 NORTHERN VIRGINIA II. THE POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL SECTION The Trail at a Glance

TRAIL CHARACTERISTICS PROMINENT HERITAGE, AND CULTURAL LINKAGES: Potomac Overlook, Fort C.F. Smith, TRAIL CORRIDOR: Stafford/Prince William County Boundary to Harpers Theodore Roosevelt Island, Arlington Ferry, West Virginia Cemetery, Arlington House, Numerous

LENGTH: 116 Miles (76.4 Planned, 39.6 Existing) Sites in Old Town Alexandria, Jones Point, Dyke Marsh, River Farm, Fort Hunt, Mt. Arlington - 8.94 (Existing) Vernon, Woodlawn Alexandria - 4.38 Miles (Existing) Fairfax - 41.69 Miles (25.27 Existing, 16.42 Planned) OUNTY Y OUNTY UMMARY Loudoun - 45.56 Miles (.78 Existing, 44.77 Planned) C B C S

Prince William - 15.51 Miles (.28 Existing, 15.23 Estimated Avg. Cost City of Alexandria Mileage Percent Cost1 Per Mile Planned) Trail Completed 4.38 100%$ - Trail Planned 0 0%$ - $ - TRAIL SURFACE TYPES: Paved Asphalt - 48 Estimated Miles Total 4.38 100%$ - $ - Arlington County Stone Dust - 27 Estimated Miles Trail Completed 8.94 100%$ - Trail Plannned 0 0%$ - $ - Natural - 41 Estimated Miles Total 8.94 100%$ - $ - Fairfax County Trail Completed 25.27 61%$ - PUBLIC PARK LINKAGES: G.W. Memorial Parkway, Potomac Overlook, Oronoco Trail Plannned 16.42 39%$ 5,751,439 $ 350,369 Total 41.69 100% $ 5,751,439 Bay, Founders, Torpedo Factory, Waterfront, Potomac Loudoun County View, Jones Point, Fort Hunt, Washington Mill, Grist Trail Completed 0.78 2%$ - Trail Plannned 44.77 98%$ 7,699,388 $ 171,959 Mill, Scotts Run Nature Preserve, Great Falls NHP, Total 45.56 100% $ 7,699,388 Prince William County* Riverbend Trail Completed 0.49 2%$ - Trail Plannned 20.68 98%$ 6,880,333 $ 332,727 PRIMARY TRAIL LINKAGES: Chain Bridge, Custis Lee, Key Bridge, Theodore Total 21.17 100% $ 6,880,333

Roosevelt Bridge, Memorial Bridge, 14th Street Northern Virginia Corridor Trail Completed 39.86 33%$ - Bridge, Four Mile Run, Eisenhower Avenue/Cameron Trail Plannned 81.87 67%$ 20,331,160 $ 248,339 Run Total 121.73 100%$ 20,331,160

PAGE 2 Harpers Ferry, W.Va.

THE The Potomac Heritage POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL National Scenic Trail Corridor Potomac Heritage National GENERALIZED TRAIL CORRIDOR Scenic Trail Corridor In Northern Virginia

Potential Whites Ferry to Leesburg Connection

Leesburg

Loudoun County

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Alternative Bike Corridor (W&OD, Lee Custis, 4 Mile Run)

Arlington

Alexandria Fairfax County

Prince William County

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Corridor

PAGE 3 LOUDOUN III. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS COUNTY The PHNST in Loudoun County

PRIMARY TRAIL LINKAGES: Fairfax County Potomac Heritage Trail, Cas- TRAIL CHARACTERISTICS cades, Countryside, Potomac Farms, Broad Run Farms, University Center, Landsdowne, TRAIL CORRIDOR: Fairfax County Line to Harpers Ferry National River Creek, Potomac Lakes, Spring Lakes, Historic Park Town of Leesburg. LENGTH: Loudoun - 45.56 Miles (Recommended Align- PROMINENT HERITAGE, ment) AND CULTURAL LINKAGES: Goose Creek Canal, Goose Creek Scenic TRAIL SURFACE TYPE: 8.62 miles of 10' asphalt River, Balls Bluff Battlefield, Whites Ferry, 13.32 miles of 6' crushed stone Catoctin Creek Scenic River, Harpers Ferry. 23.62 miles natural surface

COST ESTIMATE SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR COMPLETION: $7,699,388 (approx. $171,959 per mile) PRIVATE PROPERTIES Defining the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail in Loud- IMPACTED: 135 (62 east of Leesburg, 73 north/west of oun County can best characterized in two distinct geographic Leesburg areas - the corridor east of the Town of Leesburg and the corridor MAJOR EXISTING west of Leesburg. Opportunities to construct the PHNST in Lou- EASEMENTS: Cascades, Countryside, Landsdowne, Janelia doun County vary widely between these two geographic corri- Farms, Potomac Lakes, River Creek, dors. In the eastern part of the County there are a substantial Southbank, Spring Lakes, University Center. number of public park lands and significant progress has been made to secure easements and proffers from private landowners. PUBLIC PARK LINKAGES: Algonkian Regional Park, NVRPA Potomac Properties, Countryside Trails, Keep Loudoun In the western part of the County, the trail corridor consists en- Beautiful Park, Red Rock Overlook Regional tirely of private lands along the Potomac River (73 private par- Park, Balls Bluff Regional Battlefield Park, Ida cels have been identified in the corridor). It is highly likely that Lee Park, W&OD Regional Railroad Park, development of the PHNST in the western section of the County Harpers Ferry NHP, Appalachian National Sce- will take significantly more time than may be required to put the nic Trail, C&O National Historic Park. trail in place in eastern Loudoun County. However, it is impor-

PAGE 4 tant that plans be developed, and an alignment agreed upon in IMMEDIATE ACTIONS the western corridor to ensure that the corridor is preserved for 1. Seek Board of Supervisor approval to proceed with construc- future construction of the PHNST. tion of the segment of PHNST between the Fairfax County boundary and Algonkian Regional Park. Research conducted through the development of this plan indi- 2. Complete a more detailed analysis of the feasibility of con- cates that it will cost approximately $7.7 million (averaging about structing the trail from Algonkian Regional Park to the Keep $172,000 per mile) to construct all 45.56 miles of the PHNST in Loudoun Beautiful Park. Loudoun County. The estimated cost of construction does not 3. Incorporate language and, where appropriate, maps of the pro- include costs associated with land acquisition or the purchase of posed alignment of the PHNST into the County Comprehen- easements. As planned, the trail in western Loudoun will be com- sive Plan. prised of a natural surface hiking and equestrian trail. In eastern 4. Continue to work with Northern Virginia Regional Commis- Loudoun (and in the vicinity of the Town of Leesburg) the trail sion staff to identify and seek funding for the construction of will consist of both asphalt and crushed stone surfaces. The fact the PHNST in Loudoun County. that over 50% of the trail is planned as a natural surface facility 5. Develop a management plan for the PHNST in Loudoun significantly reduces the overall estimated cost of construction County. for the County. INTERMEDIATE ACTIONS As previously mentioned, the opportunity to begin constructing 1. Complete a more detailed analysis and construction estimates trail in eastern Loudoun is quite favorable. Significant portions for constructing the trail between Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park of the recommended trail alignment are either within public do- and Balls Bluff Regional Park. main or can be placed within existing easements. Between the Fairfax County line and Goose Creek, construction of the trail FUTURE ACTIONS could proceed with minimal impacts on private property. The 1. Work with Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Vir- biggest obstacles within this stretch exist in routing the trail ginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Northern through the Broad Run Farms and Potomac Farms subdivisions. Virginia Regional Park Authority and other interested entities With the anticipated completion of the PHNST in western Fair- to establish a water trail component along Loudoun Coutny's fax County in the summer of 2002, initiating construction of the shoreline of the Potomac River. trail in eastern Loudoun represents an excellent opportunity to 2. Complete a more detailed analysis and construction estimates extend the PHNST from Great Falls National Historic Park to for constructing the trail between Whites Ferry and Harpers Leesburg. With this goal in mind, the following priorities have Ferry National Park (Route 340). been identified to facilitate the construction of the PHNST in 3. Seek official designation from the National Park Service for Loudoun County: segments of the PHNST in Loudoun County.

PAGE 5 IV. THE PHNST MAP FAIRFAX COUNTY LINE TO COUNTRYSIDE IN LOUDOUN COUNTY 1 Estimated Cost: $853,271 Length: Recommended Alignment - 6.01 miles Number of Private Properties - 4 parcels proffered to the NVRPA. The alternative alignment Properties Under Easement - 4 in Cascades, Lowes Island, Countryside along Old Sugarland Run will require considerable Status: All Alignments Planned grading due to the marshy nature of much of this Trail Type: 6' crushed stone corridor. Once leaving the Sugarland Run flood- USGS 7.5 Map: Seneca, Sterling plain, the trail will follow the existing grades of the Water Bodies: Potomac River, Sugarland Run, Old Sugarland Run Blue Plains interceptor maintenance road, making Linkages: Planned trails along Sugarland Run, trail networks in Algonkian this section of the trail particularly suitable for de- Regional Park, sidewalks and trails in the Lowes Island, Sugarland Run, velopment. An official MOU needs to be finalized Cascades and Countryside communities. with the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority before trail use will be permitted. RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT right-of-way for the Blue Plains interceptor pipeline. The trail would cross Sugarland Run at a new Areas that are problematic within this section in- (HIKING TRAIL) bridge or low water crossing north of the existing clude the recommended trail alignment adjacent to Lowes Island Golf Course. The proximity of the Within this section of the potential trail corridor, crossing utilized by maintenance vehicles access- fairways along the Potomac Shoreline pose signifi- the Potomac Heritage Trail would begin within the ing the interceptor pipeline. cant safety issues to potential trail users. Before property of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Au- any trail can be constructed along the Lowes Island thority at the Fairfax County boundary. If it is de- Once within the Algonkian Park, the trail would fol- Shoreline, the safety issues need to be addressed. termined feasible, the recommended route for the low the interceptor maintenance road until reach- trail would be to keep it along the shoreline of the ing the entrance road to Algonkian Regional Park. Due to the wet nature of the floodplain area in Coun- Potomac River and route it parallel to the Lowes Restrooms and a concession stand are located in tryside property, more detailed analysis necessary Island Golf Course running along the berm or on the Potomac Lakes Sportsplex. On the west side of to determine the best suitable alignment within the the north side to the vicinity of Sugarland Run. At the access road, the trail would follow the existing proffered easement. Sugarland Run, the trail would cross over near the paved trail through Algonkian before exiting the mouth and continue into Algonkian Regional Park park on the western boundary in the vicinity of the eventually connecting with the existing trail sys- pool facilities. In the Countryside community, the NEXT STEPS trail would follow a route that parallels the Poto- tem and exiting on the western boundary into Coun- ¥ Create connections between all existing and tryside. mac Shoreline as closely as feasible. The terrain in this area is somewhat marshy and a medium water planned neighborhoods adjacent to the trail corridor. An alternative option would have the trail enter onto crossing is necessary near the western boundary of Countryside. the Lowes Island golf course near Old Sugarland ¥ Continue the development of a stream valley Run, and follow a course that runs parallel to the trail along Sugarland Run that will provide di- PPORTUNITIES SSUES stream before entering onto an easement on the O & I rect access to the Town of Herndon and the South Bank development. The trail would then fol- All of the recommended trail corridor is either within W&OD Trail. low along a portion of the District of Columbia's the public domain, or along areas that have been

PAGE 6 ¥ Continue development of the alternative trail alignment along Old Sugarland Run and DCWASA right of way to connect the Algonk- ian Park to the anticipated completed sections of the Fairfax County portion of the PHNST.

¥ Determine an appropriate specific alignment through the Countryside development. Proposed PHNST Alignment & Alternatives From Fairfax County Line to Countryside Recommended Alignment

Alternative Alignment

Lowes Island Golf Cours Algonkian Regional Park

Countryside

Cascades fax County

Fair

PAGE 7 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Loudoun County Corridor Assessment Map 1

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION

Map 1 Fairfax County Line to Countryside

Trail Construction Fairfax County Line to Point A 3,750 $ 137,125 U59Crushed stone. Steep grades, wooded area. Small Bridge over Little Sugarland Run 25 $ 17,500 U 60 Small bridge suitable for golf carts crossing Little Sugarland Run Crushed stone. Level, running through existing golf course adjacent to Point A to Eastern Boundary Algonkian Regional Park 7,147 $ 261,719 U 61 Little Sugarland Run. Level and aligned almost entirely along Interceptor maintenance road Eastern Bndry of Algonkian Reg. Park to Western Bndry of Algonkian 11,801 $ 132,761 U 62 ROW. Improvement to Low Water Crossing 25 $ 17,500 U 63 Existing low water crossing needs improvements for regular use. Crush stone. Somewhat marshy, considerable stabilization needed. Western Bndry of Algonkian Reg. Park to Countryside 8,989 $ 264,187 U 64 Much of this segment located in the floodplain. Bridge or Culvert 25 $ 17,500 U 65 Small bridge or culvert crossing existing small unnamed stream. Sub-total 31,762 $ 848,291

Amenities Large Sign 1 $ 300 Placed at major access point(s). Algonkian Regional Park. Small Trail Sign 16 $ 3,176 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 6 $ 1,504 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 4,980

Total Cost $ 853,271

1 Mileposts: Milepost Status Codes: A: Segment in a local comprehensive plan X = completed (including determination of a final alignment) U = underway B: Preliminary engineering completed $ = funded (including environmental, historic and cultural resource reviews) O = on hold pending administrative/regulatory action C: Property acquisition completed (including appraisal & negotiations) D: Final design (including surveying, structural design & inspections) E: Construction

PAGE 8 (61) Potomac River Alternative alignment along Private Property (62) FCWA access road to the Proferred Easement Public Property Potomac Shoreline and south (Alignment negiotiated along (NVRPA) along Sugarland Run) Old Sugarland Run) (64) Point A Private Property (65) Proffered Easements (Designated along 100’ Potomac River Floodplain) Golf Course Algonkian Regional (60) (59) Public Property Park (NVRPA) (63)

South Countryside Bank 1,278 Ac. Algon 162 Ac. kia n Park way Lowes Island

S Cascades u g a r 4,242 Ac. la nd

R u n

Sugarland Run ay w k r a P s e

cad s

Ca Fairfax County

NVCC Loudoun Campus

MAP 1 Implementattion Plan For The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail In Loudoun County (Fairfax County Line to Countryside)

Primary Route Alternative Routes

Public Land

(1) Map Reference #

PAGE 9 COUNTRYSIDE TO KEEP LOUDOUN IV. THE PHNST MAP IN LOUDOUN BEAUTIFUL PARK COUNTY 2 Estimated Cost: $1,646,829 Length: Recommended Alignment - 6.78 miles Number of Private Properties - 20 - 22 parcels Properties Under Easement - 3 in University Center, Janelia Farms, An intriguing opportunity exists for the trail along Landsdowne/Xerox Goose Creek. A very good representation of the Status: All Alignments Planned Goose Creek canal and associated lock structures Trail Type: 6' crushed stone still exist in this corridor, presenting good opportu- USGS 7.5 Map: Sterling, Leesburg nities for interpretive displays and signage. Water Bodies: Potomac River, Broad Run, Goose Creek (Scenic River) Linkages: Potential trails along Broad Run and Goose Creek. Internal trail NEXT STEPS systems in Broad Run Farms, University Center, Janelia Farms, and Landsdowne. Potential link to future roadside trail along Route 7. ¥ Create connections between all existing and planned neighborhoods adjacent to the trail corridor. RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT (HIKING TRAIL) Farms along the Potomac Drive and would continue ¥ Continue the development of a stream valley west to the Janelia Farms tract along the river shore- trail along Broad Run and Goose Creek that As the trail corridor approaches the western end of line. The trail would continue northwest along the will provide access to the interior areas of the the Countryside development, two options exist for floodplain through Janelia Farms, Landsdowne, and County. the PHNST route. The first option for the trail cor- the Xerox property, to Goose Creek. ridor turns south to intersect with the Loudoun ¥ Determine the suitability of utilizing the LCSA County Sewer Authority's (LCSA) utility right of At Goose Creek, the trail would turn southwest and right of way through Broad Run Farms. way at Broad Run Farms. The trail would follow follow closely to the eastern shoreline of Goose the LCSA right of way through Broad Run Farms, Creek until reaching the Loudoun is Beautiful bridge exiting within a publicly owned parcel on the east- crossing. ern bank of Broad Run. A second option would have the trail continue west to intersect with Youngs Cliff Road. The trail would follow Youngs Cliff OPPORTUNITIES & ISSUES Road to the previously mention public parcel where The biggest obstacles in this section of the corridor it would then cross over Broad Run. include access through privately held lands and existing communities. The corridor through Broad After crossing Broad Run the trail would connect Run Farms follows the Loudoun County Sewer with an existing trail system in University Center. Authority's right of way, however much of this cor- The trail would turn north on the west side of Broad ridor is currently fenced off by adjacent landown- Run, turn slightly west and connect with an exist- ers, or utilized for private purposes (gardens, landing gravel road that ends at the eastern terminus of scaped yards, etc.). Potomac Drive. The trail would enter Potomac

PAGE 10 Creek Goose

Xerox

Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park

Landsdowne

Janelia Farms

Potomac Proposed PHNST Farms University Center Alignment & Alternatives B r o From Countryside to a d Broad Run Countryside Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park R un Farms Recommended Alignment

Alternative Alignment

PAGE 11 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Loudoun County Corridor Assessment Map 2

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION

Map 2 Countryside to Loudoun Is Beautiful Park

Trail Construction Countryside to Broad Run Farms 2,943 $ 112,477 U 66 Crushed stone. Begins in floodplain, rises to meet with interceptor ROW. Bridge or Culvert 15 $ 10,500 U 67 Small bridge or culvert over existing unnamed small stream. Crushed stone. Moderate inclines on existing interceptor ROW. Includes Eastern Bndry Broad Run Farms to Broad Run 5,173 $ 158,977 U 68 cost of 4 intermittent stream crossings (culverts). Broad Run Bridge 400 $ 300,000 69 Major water crossing of Broad Run. Broad Run to Potomac Farms 4,129 $ 154,580 XXXXX 70 Existing crushed stone trail. On road trail designation by striping a 3' corridor. Future plans might Eastern Bndry Potomac Farms to Western Bndry Potomac Farms 1,573 $ 787 U 71 include a sidewalk type of facility or separated crushed stone. Crushed stone. Located primarily in floodplain. Includes cost of one Janelia Farms 2,471 $ 96,021 U 72 minor water crossing (culvert). Crushed stone. Along Potomac shoreline trail located in floodplain. Steep slopes and rocky terrain will permit only primitive hiking surfaces in some areas along Goose Creek. Cost includes three minor water Landsdowne and Xerox 21,879 $ 785,605 U 73 crossings (culverts). Bridge 30 $ 21,000 U 74 Medium water crossing adjacent to Goose Creek. Sub-total 38,583 $ 1,639,944

Amenities Placed at major access point(s). University Center, Broad Run Creek Large Sign 4 $ 1,200 Bridge, Potomac Farms, and Route 7 (Loudoun is Beautiful Park). Small Trail Sign 19 $ 3,858 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 7 $ 1,827 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 6,885

Total Cost $ 1,646,829

PAGE 12 MAP 2 Goose Creek Canal Ruins Implementation Plan For The omac Steep Slopes Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail ation 3 Ac. In Loudoun County Steep Slopes Xerox (Countryside to Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park) Poto Document Primary Route Steep Slopes University Alternative Routes

mac Public Land reek (73) e C (74) os Proffered Easement o Map Reference # G to County (1) (No Specific Alignment)

Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park

(72) Rou Lansdowne Conference te 7 L Existing Easement Center and Resort (NVRPA) ees b 2,267 Ac. urg Pik e River

(68) (66) Janelia Private Property Private Property Proposed to Follow Farm Proffered Easements LCSA Sewer ROW Easement (Designated along 100’ Potomac 281 Ac. (Parcels not identified) (71) (70) River Floodplain) Private Property Existing Proposed to Follow Trail Existing Road R (69) ou te 7 Le esbur Potomac gP Farms ike University 77 Ac. B (67) Center r Broad Run o a 576 Ac. d Farms R u n Proffered Easement and Trial Construction to

Route 7

y kw

rside e v i Coun R 1,27

PAGE 13 KEEP LOUDOUN BEAUTIFUL PARK TO IV. THE PHNST MAP IN LOUDOUN TOWN OF LEESBURG & VICINITY Estimated Cost: $1,792,239 (Recommended Alignment) COUNTY 3 $2,290,004 (Alternative 1 - Roadside Trail) lows the stream valley to the vicinity of Balls Bluff $2,611,614 (Alternative 2 - Roadside trail from Balls Bluff) Battlefield Park, where it would then turn toward Length: Recommended Alignment - 7.82 miles the river and enter into the park. The trail would Number of Private Properties -36 parcels then transverse the park using existing trail networks Properties Under Easement - Potomac Lakes, River Creek, Southbank, before exiting at Balls Bluff Road. From this point, Spring Lakes the trail would follow Balls Bluff Road to Rt. 15, Status: All Alignments Planned turn north to Whites Ferry Road and then follow Trail Type: 10' asphalt and 6' crushed stone Whites Ferry Road to the Potomac River. USGS 7.5 Map: Leesburg, Waterford Water Bodies: Potomac River, Goose Creek (Scenic River), Cattail Branch ALTERNATIVE 2 Linkages: Internal trail systems in Potomac Station, River Creek, Festival Lakes, Spring Lakes, Edwards Landing and the Town of Leesburg. Existing trail (SHORELINE TRAIL) systems in Red Rock Overlook Regional Park, Balls Bluff Battlefield From Red Rock Overlook Regional Park, the trail Regional Park, the W&OD Railroad Regional Park, and the C&O Canal would cross four private parcels, enter into Balls Towpath Bluff Battlefield Regional Park and then continue to follow the Potomac Shoreline all the way to Whites Ferry.

RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT ity right of way and cross over Edwards Ferry Road WHITES FERRY TO W&OD near Red Rock Wilderness Regional Park. (HIKING TRAIL) TRAIL CONNECTOR After crossing Goose Creek on the existing Keep At the western boundary of Red Rock the trail would Loudoun Beautiful bridge (the old Route 7 bridge) either continue along the former alignment of the For bicycling purposes the establishment of a multi- the trail would turn directly north again and follow Elizabeth Mills Road, or follow the north side of use trail along the 4 1/2 mile corridor between the the western shoreline of Goose Creek. Two options Edwards Ferry Road. More detailed analysis needs C&O Canal Towpath and the W&OD Trail would exist for the trail once in the Potomac Station sub- to be conducted to determine the most appropriate be ideal. While not considered an ideal hiking cor- division. The first alignment would follow a pre- alignment from this point to Whites Ferry. Two al- ridor, this connection would provide invaluable links determined corridor that runs through the subdivi- ternatives are described below. to trail opportunities in Maryland and other north- sion before intersecting with River Creek Parkway. ern destinations. The recommended alignment would follow Whites Ferry Road to Route 15. Turn A second, more aesthetically pleasing route would ALTERNATIVE 1 be to turn west at Cattail Branch and follow the south south and follow the western ROW of Route 15 bank of the creek to River Creek Parkway. This (ROADSIDE TRAIL) through Ida Lee Park and into Historic Old Town of Leesburg. Once in Old Town, sidewalks and/or route also follows the former alignment of the Eliza- Alternative 1 places the trail corridor adjacent to beth Mills Road. The trail would then proceed a bike lane would be necessary to accommodate hik- Edwards Ferry Road running parallel along the north ers and bikers. over River Creek Parkway, pick up the existing util- side and connecting with Cattail Branch again. At Cattail Branch the trail would turn north and fol-

PAGE 14 To Whites W PPORTUNITIES SSUES hites Fe Ferry Proposed PHNST O & I rry Ro ad Alignment & Alternatives This section represents the most urban and densely populated areas of the trail corridor in Loudoun From Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park County. Due to the dense nature of this area, many The Vicinity of the Town of Leesburg private property related issues exist. However, the trail corridor between Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park Recommended and Red Rock Overlook Regional Park has almost Alignment entirely been preserved through easements and proffers. The corridor from Red Rock to Whites Ferry is far more problematic. Alternative 1 represents Alternative the least scenic of the two alternatives, but may also Alignment be the least problematic. Alternative two will require a considerable number of easements, and faces a major hurdle north of Balls Bluff where a large development is currently being built by-right with- out easements along the shoreline. Balls Bluff Reg. Park Route 15 NEXT STEPS

¥ The feasibility of routing the trail along Red Rock Cattail Branch needs to be addressed both Overlook Reg. Park near River Creek and north of Edwards Ferry Edwards Ferry Road Road. Town of Leesburg

River Creek C at ta il B Route r . 7 Creek Goose

Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park

PAGE 15 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Loudoun County Corridor Assessment Map 3

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION

Map 3 Loudoun Is Beautiful Park to Town of Leesburg & Vicinity

Trail Construction Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Follows access road in front of Goose Creek Country Club. After crossing Rt. 7, either follows utility ROW, or runs Loudoun Is Beautiful Park to Mid-point of Red Rock Overlook Reg. Park 14,582 $ 492,872 U 75 adjacent to California Road. Small bridge or culvert over Cattail Branch. May be eliminated if existing Bridge or Culvert 25 $ 17,500 U 76 California Rd. bridge is utilized. Sub-total 14,607 $ 510,372

Alternative 1 Trail Construction Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Runs adjacent to Edwards Ferry Rd. to Route 15. Follows east side of Rt. 15 to Whites Ferry Road. Runs Mid-point of Red Rock Overlook Reg. Park to Whites Ferry 28,979 $ 1,259,322 U77adjacent to Whites Ferry Rd. to Potomac River crossing. Bridge or Culvert 25 $ 17,500 U 78 Small bridge or culvert over Cattail Branch. Sub-total 29,004 $ 1,276,822

Alternative 1 Trail Amenities Placed at major access point(s). Red Rock Overlook Regional Park, Intersection of Edwards Ferry Rd. & Rt. 15 bypass, Intersection Rt. 15 Large Sign 4 $ 800 bypass & Rt. 15 business, Whites Ferry. Small Trail Sign 22$ 2,181 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 82,$ 065 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 5,045

Total Cost Alternative 1 43,611 $ 1,792,239

Alternative 2 Trail Construction Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Runs adjacent to Edwards Ferry Rd. to Mid-point of Red Rock Overlook Reg. Park to East Bndry Edwards Landing 3,933 $ 172,399 U 79 eastern boundary of Edwards Landing development. Bridge or Culvert 25 $ 17,500 U 80 Small bridge or culvert over Cattail Branch. Crushed stone surface. Runs due north from Edwards Ferry Rd. to western end of Balls Bluff Reg. Park to keep alignment within a fairly level area. Alignment approaches steep slopes near northern bndry of the 1 Mileposts: Eastern Bndry Edwards Landing to Northern Bndry of Balls Bluff Reg. Park 9,420 $ 422,466 U 81 park. A: Segment in a local comprehensive plan Bridge or Culvert 25 $ 17,500 U 80 Small bridge or culvert over Cattail Branch. Crushed stone. After leaving park property, alignment follows generally (including determination of a final alignment) Northern Bndry of Balls Bluff Reg. Park to Whites Ferry 8,899 $ 339,915 U 83 level terrain to Whites Ferry river crossing. B: Preliminary engineering completed Bridge or Culvert 35 $ 24,500 U 84 Medium water crossing of unnamed creek. (including environmental, historic and Sub-total 22,337 $ 994,280 cultural resource reviews) Alternative 2 Trail Amenities C: Property acquisition completed Placed at major access point(s). Red Rock Overlook Regional Park, Balls (including appraisal & negotiations) Large Sign 3 $ 900 Bluff Regional Park, Whites Ferry. D: Final design Small Trail Sign 18$ 3,694 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 71,$ 749 Placed every mile. (including surveying, structural Sub-total $ 6,344 design & inspections) E: Construction Total Cost Alternative 2 36,944 $ 1,510,995

Whites Ferry to W&OD Trail Connection Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Runs adjacent to Whites Ferry Rd. and Milepost Status Codes: Whites Ferry to the Entrance of Ida Lee Park 19,495 $ 838,891 U 85 the western side of Rt. 15. X = completed Some traffic control improvements will be necessary to facilitate crossing Rt. 15 at Whites Ferry Rd. U = underway Route 15 crossing improvements 50 TBD U 86 $ = funded Ida Lee Park to W&OD Trail 3,837 $ 35,080 U 87 The remaining alignment would be a combination of bike lane and Sub-total 23,382 $ 873,971 O = on hold pending administrative/regulatory action Whites Ferry to W&OD Trail Amenities Large Sign 2 $ 600 Placed at major access point(s). Ida Lee Park and W&OD Trail. Small Trail Sign 12$ 2,338 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 41,$ 107 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 4,045

Total Cost Whites Ferry to W&OD Trail Connection $ 878,016

PAGE 16 Whi tes Fer ry Rd . Altern ative Whites MAP 3 Ferry Implementation Plan For The 15 e Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail out R In Loudoun County (Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park to Leesburg and Vicinity) (86) Primary Route Route 15 & Whites Ferry Rd. (84) Crossing Improvements (83) Alternative Routes No current easements Morven between Balls Bluff & Public Land Park Whites Ferry (1) Map Reference # (85) Whites Ferry to W&OD Connection Potomac (Whites Ferry to Ida Lee Park Entrance)

(77) Alternative 1 Asphalt Trail adjacent to Edwards Ferry Rd. & Rt. 15

E d w ards F Balls Bluff

e Regional Park r Potomac (87) ry B alls Bl Rive Ida Lee Park to W&OD Trail ative R Crossing Ida Lee n r d. e Park lt /R uf A t f . Alte 15 Altern r r ector na (81) nn tive Co Alternative 2

ati Trail Corridor along river shorleine

ve through Balls Bluff to Whites Ferry

to W&OD

T H Edwards P Town Landing Of 155 Ac. (78) (80) Red Rock Leesburg Overlook Edwards Fe rry Road Regional Park eg W&OD R ional R ai lroad Speek P (79) a 5 Property rk 1 e Private Property ut (No Easements but 160 Ac. o River Creek R might be fit along VDOT ROW) 613 Ac. Spring (76) Lakes Cattail Br Golf 108 Ac. a nc Course Festival h Lakes (75) 113 Ac. Proffered Easements From Spring Lakes, Potomac Station and Festival Lakes GooseGoose Creek Creek Canal RuinsRuins Potomac Steep Slopes Station 533 Ac. d a Steep Slopes Xerox

ia Ro n Document for li Steep Slopes a University C ek Keep Loudoun seCre oo Beautiful Park G (74)

Public Property Loudoun is Beautiful Park and VDOT ROW Ro ute

PAGE 17PAGE 1 IV. THE PHNST MAP WHITES FERRY TO POINT OF ROCKS IN LOUDOUN Estimated Cost: $1,794,985 (Recommended Alignment - Potomac Shoreline) COUNTY 4 $2,731,892 (Alternative - Route 15 Trail) Length: Recommended Alignment - 12.65 miles Number of Private Properties -36 parcels creek near Furnace Mountain the terrain is again Properties Under Easement - None very flat and mostly floodplain. The trail could be Alternative Alignment - 9 miles easily routed through this area. Near Furnace Moun- Number of Private Properties - 156 tain, a number of residential homes are located on Properties Under Easement - None the river shoreline, necessitating that the corridor Status: All Alignments Planned turn south at, or near the unnamed creek. The trail Trail Type: Recommended - Natural Surface would intersect with Route 15 near the intersection Alternative - 10' asphalt of Rt. 664, turn west and follow the Rt. 15 right of USGS 7.5 Map: Waterford, Poolesville, Point of Rocks way to Rt. 672 just south of the bridge to Point of Water Bodies: Potomac River, Limestone Branch, numerous unnamed tributaries Rocks, Maryland. Linkages: C&O Canal Towpath ALTERNATIVE 2 (ROUTE 15 ROADSIDE land, and near the terminus of Rt. 656 on the Vir- RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT ginia shoreline. A high bluff with six or seven homes MULTI-USE TRAIL) is located directly on the river at this point. The Alternative 2 places the trail corridor adjacent to ALTERNATIVE 1 trail corridor would have to be routed west of these properties, possibly along the western side of the Route 15 as a grade separated multi-use paved as- (SHORELINE HIKING TRAIL) access road to these homes. North of this site the phalt trail between Whites Ferry Road and Rt. 672 just south of the bridge to Point of Rocks, Mary- The ideal alignment in terms of hiking enjoyment terrain again becomes very level, and the trail corridor could be routed back near the shoreline. Most land. More detailed analysis needs to be completed and scenic quality is to keep the trail as close to the to determine which side of Rt. 15 is most suitable Potomac shoreline as physical and environmental of this area is floodplain, and approximately five small stream crossings would be necessary. for the trail. This alternative does provide some circumstances permit. From Whites Ferry, the trail scenic vistas of the Catoctin Mountains, but the would travel north to cross Limestone Branch. The The terrain becomes very steep again just west of heavy automobile and truck use of Route 15 will terrain north of Limestone branch becomes steep degrade the overall experience. along the shoreline, rising to more than 250' within where the Monocacy River empties into the 50 to 100 feet of the water. More analysis is neces- Potomac from the Maryland shoreline. Three hun- PPORTUNITIES SSUES sary to determine the most appropriate alignment dred foot bluffs are located on the Virginia shore- O & I line near Cox Island, and the terrain remains very in this section (low or on top of the bluff?). A shoreline trail through this section of the river steep for approximately a mile west of this area. corridor would be very scenic. The terrain is well Another unnamed creek crossing would be neces- After reaching an unnamed tributary just south of suited to a hiking trail, and the Maryland shoreline sary in this very steep area. the intersection of Routes 661 and 656 the terrain is mostly undeveloped due to the presence of the levels considerably until reaching a the bend in the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The are only From Point B on the associated map, to an unnamed river adjacent to Dickerson Regional Park in Mary- 36 parcels between Whites Ferry and the Point of

PAGE 18 Rocks (Rt. 15) bridge, highlighting the large nature of most land holdings in this area. With few exceptions (mostly near the Rt. 15 bridge) the land between Whites Ferry and Point of Rocks is still in Point of agricultural use. Routing the trail along the Poto- Rocks mac Shoreline will necessitate the negotiation of easements or permission of use with the 36 individual landowners in this corridor.

Efforts should be made to provide suitable pedes- trian access across the Rt. 15 bridge for linkages to the C&O Canal towpath and points of interest in Point of Rocks, Maryland.

e t

NEXT STEPS u

o R r e v i

R y Lost c ca Corner o on Proposed PHNST M Alignment & Alternatives From The Vicinity of the Dickerson Town of Leesburg to Point of Rocks Power Plant

Recommended

Alignment

e t

Whites Ferry

PAGE 19 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Loudoun County Corridor Assessment Map 4

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION

Map 4 Whites Ferry to Point of Rocks

Alternative 1 Shoreline Trail Construction Natural surface trail with grade improvements made in areas of steep slopes and around other natural impediments. Alignment would follow Whites Ferry to Point of Rocks 66,819 $ 1,470,018 U 88 floodplain as closely as possible. Bridge 60 $ 45,000 U 89 Medium sized bridge or culvert to cross Limestone Branch. Small bridges or culverts over nine unnamed creeks between Limestone 9 Small Bridges or Culverts 25 $ 157,500 U 90 Branch and Camp Potomac Woods (Point B on Map 4). Medium sized bridge or culvert to cross unnamed creek near Camp Bridge or Culvert 35 $ 24,500 U 91 Potomac Woods. Steep slopes are prevalent in this area. Small bridges or culverts over five unnamed creeks between Potomac 5 Small Bridges or Culverts 25 $ 87,500 U 92 Woods Camp and where the alignment crosses Rt. 15. Sub-total 66,964 $ 1,784,518

Whites Ferry to Point of Rocks Trail Amenities Large Sign 2 $ 600 Placed at major access point(s). Whites Ferry, Point of Rocks. Small Trail Sign 33 $ 6,696 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 13 $ 3,171 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 10,467

Total Cost Alternative 1 Shoreline Trail $ 1,794,985

Alternative 2 Route 15 Grade Separated Trail Construction Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Runs adjacent to Whites Ferry Rd. and Whites Ferry Road to Point of Rocks 47,468 $ 2,384,162 U 93 the western side of Rt. 15. Bridge 60 $ 45,000 U 94 Medium sized bridge or culvert to cross Limestone Branch. 17 Small Bridges or Culverts 25 $ 297,500 U 95 Branch and Point of Rocks. Sub-total 47,553 $ 2,726,662

Whites Ferry Road to Point of Rocks Trail Amenities Large Sign 3 $ 600 Placed at major access point(s). Whites Ferry, Lucketts, Point of Rocks. Small Trail Sign 24 $ 2,378 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 9 $ 2,252 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 5,229

Total Cost Alternative 2 Rt. 15 Trail $ 2,731,892

PAGE 20 Lindsay Corner Point of MAP 4 eek Rocks Implementation Plan For The Lovettsville r C Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail In Loudoun County (Town of Leesburg and Vicinity to Point of Rocks)

Furnace Primary Route Alternative Routes atoctin Mountain C Public Land

(1) Map Reference # Run

Clarks Nolands Ferry

Shrys Store

Lost Corner Lucketts Oak Hill

(93) Grade Separated rnative Multi-use Trail lte

Sho reline A cRiver

Potoma River (88) Recommended Route Shoreline Trail from ch Whites Ferry to Point of Rocks n a

omac t Limestone Br o P Whites Ferry

out R Morven Park

D E O BllBlff

PAGE 21 POINT OF ROCKS TO HARPERS IV. THE PHNST MAP IN LOUDOUN FERRY NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK Estimated Cost: $1,771,688 (Recommended Alignment - Potomac Shoreline) COUNTY 5 Length: Recommended Alignment - 11.2 miles Number of Private Properties -37 parcels Properties Under Easement - None well, particularly with the Appalachian Trail, Harp- Alternative Alignment - 9 miles ers Ferry, New Brunswick, and Point of Rocks. Status: All Alignments Planned Trail Type: Recommended - Natural Surface This corridor is also entirely in the private domain, USGS 7.5 Map: Point of Rocks, Harpers Ferry comprised of 37 individual parcels between the Rt. Water Bodies: Potomac River, Catoctin Creek (State Scenic River), Quarter Branch, 15 bridge (Point of Rocks) and Rt. 340. As previ- Dutchman Creek, Piney Run and numerous unnamed tributaries ously mentioned, to gain access to this corridor con- Linkages: C&O Canal Towpath, Harpers Ferry, Appalachian Trail, Potential siderable work must be undertaken to obtain ease- Shenandoah River trail ments or permission for access. Fortunately, with a few exceptions the shoreline is so steep that little direct river front development has occurred. The steepness of most of this corridor makes this sec- Branch the shoreline rises to meet with Rt. 287 and RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT tion of the trail corridor a very challenging hiking the bridge into Maryland. opportunity. Side loop trails to Loudoun Heights or up Catoctin Creek, Dutchman Creek, and Quar- Considerable field reconnaissance remains to be West of Rt. 287 the terrain remains very steep, again ter Branch would also provide very scenic and qual- completed in this section of the corridor. The ideal rising to more than 400'. As the trail approaches ity hiking experiences. alignment is again along the Potomac shoreline the Short Hill Mountains, the adjacent elevations where feasible. As the trail turns west from Rt. 15 increase dramatically to more than 1,000'. West of and follows the Rt. 672 right of way, the first ob- the Short Hill Mountains the shoreline flattens un- NEXT STEPS stacle encountered is the Catoctin Creek crossing. til reaching Rt. 340, where a steep incline is en- Catoctin Creek is rather wide at this point, and will countered near the highway right of way. require a substantial facility to provide a safe crossing. An alternative is to explore using the existing At Rt. 340, the trail could follow an existing foot- Rt. 672 bridge. After crossing Catoctin Creek the path utilized by Appalachian Trail. The trail is lo- terrain becomes steep near the north end of Paton cated adjacent to the north side of Rt. 340. The trail Island, but levels out again after only about 1/8 mile. could follow this alignment west into Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, terminating the Virginia potion of After rounding the bend near where Catoctin Creek the trail corridor. enters the Potomac on the Maryland shoreline, the terrain becomes very steep again, rising to more than OPPORTUNITIES & ISSUES 400' within a couple hundred yards of the river. As the shoreline approaches Quarter Branch it becomes This corridor is very scenic as well, with pleasant quite level as the proposed trail corridor could again vistas of the Catoctin, Short Hill and Sugarloaf be located within the floodplain. West of Quarter Mountains. The potential for linkages is great as

PAGE 22 Proposed PHNST Alignment & Alternatives From Point of Rocks to Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

Recommended 0 34 e Alignment t u o R

Painters Harpers Corner Ferry NHP Brunswick

e t u o R

Point of Rocks ctin Cr. to

e t

PAGE 23 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Loudoun County Corridor Assessment Map 5

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION

Map 5 Point of Rocks to Harpers Ferry, W.Va.

Trail Construction Natural surface trail with grade improvements made in areas of steep slopes and around other natural impediments. Alignment would follow floodplain as closely as possible. Would follow existing trail along Rt. 340 Point of Rocks to Harpers Ferry 59,139 $ 1,301,058 U 96 into Harpers Ferry, W.Va. Bridge 300 $ 225,000 U 97 Large bridge to Cross Catoctin Creek. Small bridges or culverts over three unnamed creeks between Catoctin 3 Small Bridges or Culverts 25 $ 52,500 U 98 Creek and Quarter Branch. Bridge 100 $ 75,000 U 99 Medium sized bridge to cross Quarter Branch. Small bridges or culverts over two unnamed creeks between Quarter 2 Small Bridges or Culverts 25 $ 35,000 U 100 Branch and Dutchman Creek. Bridge 75 $ 56,250 U 101 Medium sized bridge to cross Dutchmand Creek. Small bridge or culvert over one unnamed creek between Ductchman 1 Small Bridge or Culvert 25 $ 17,500 U 102 Creek and Rt. 340. Sub-total 59,589 $ 1,762,308

Amenities Large Sign 2 $ 600 Placed at major access point(s). Whites Ferry, Point of Rocks. Small Trail Sign 30 $ 5,959 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 11 $ 2,821 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 9,380

Total Cost $ 1,771,688

PAGE 24 MAP 5 Implementation Plan For The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail In Loudoun County (Point of Rocks to Harpers Ferry, W. Va. )

Primary Route Alternative Routes

Public Land

Harpers Ferry, W.Va. (101) Dutchman Creek Ro ut e Bridge Loudoun (99) Heights Painters Brunswick, Md. (96) Quarters Branch Grade Separated Corner Bridge nCreek Multi-use Trail

Dutc u hma T n Run li

B ad Short Hill Branch Potomac Mountain Point

Piney Lovetts r v (97) Deerfield e il t l Harpers Ferry Ro r Catoctin Creek ua Lindsay Bridge Q Corner Point of eek Rocks Lovettsville r C

Furnace atoctin Mountain C

PAGE 25 This Page Left Intentionally Blank

PAGE 26 LOUDOUN V. APPENDICES COUNTY

A. Trail Construction Cost Estimate Methodology

B. Sources of Funding

C. Listing of Existing Proffers and Easements

D. Meeting Summary and List of Attendees to January 29th Board of Supervisors Work Session

E. Draft National Park Service Certification Criteria

F. Trail Contacts

PAGE 27