The Dahlgren Trail was officially opened for private recreational use in 2006. Volunteers, coordinated by the Friends of the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail, continue working to improve trail conditions and construct parking areas. The trail is in constant use by families, runners, walkers, hikers and cyclists. Boy Scout troops regularly venture out on the trail for overnight hiking-camping adventures. Runners enjoy an annual ultra and half marathon on the natural surface.

The trail has been designated a National Recreation Trail and part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.

"Nowhere else locally can I hike all day, for miles, through the woods listening to birds. It's a true breath of fresh air.”

---

---

Trail rules, etiquette and special permitting

 The Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail is a privately owned trail managed by the Friends of the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail in partnership with King George County Department of Parks and Recreation. Use of the trail is free and open to all who observe all rules and regulations, including all federal, state, and local laws. Permits are required for personal, recreational use. Please click here to submit a permit request.

Violators will be prohibited from using the trail. Report violations and disturbances to the King George County Sheriff's office: 540.775.2049​

Permits are required for any organized group events of 10 or more people and/or overnight stays.
Download special use permit.

• ​Obey all “posted” and “no trespassing” signs. The Dahlgren Trail adjoins private property belonging to others.  Do not stray off the trail.
• Leave no litter and clear litter left by others.
• No firearms may be brought onto the railroad corridor.
• Collecting railroad memorabilia is strictly forbidden and will be prosecuted.  All ties, spikes, mileposts, etc. are the property of the trail and may not be removed.
• All dogs must be on a leash and are not permitted to run loose.
• Horseback riding is strictly prohibited.
• ​No camping or overnight stay is allowed without a special permit.

• ​Access the trail corridor appropriately.  No access may be had via private subdivision roads unless specific permission has been given.
• Respect adjoining owners’ rights to have horses and livestock adjoining the Corridor.  Do not feed horses “treats” or pet them.
• No motorized vehicles are allowed on the corridor without special permission.
• Use the Corridor in a reasonable manner at all times to avoid disturbing and damaging the corridor and adjacent property. Prevent damage to all roads and driveways that cross the corridor, and protect and preserve the area’s wildlife, plants and natural features.​

In case of emergency

Most of the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail is within a mile or two of a public road and the trail’s terrain is mostly flat. If accidents should happen, the trail is wide enough to accommodate emergency vehicles. King George County has a brush truck to handle fires in remote locations and ambulances are able to access all portions of the trail. Most, if not all of the trail is within cell-phone coverage so users should be able to contact emergency personnel. Trail users should exercise personal responsibility and use good common-sense: don't hike alone, be sure to bring water, let people know where you are going, etc. ​