Out of the Back Yard, Onto the Trails

The coalition isn't just connecting paths; it wants to connect the lives of Northern Virginians.

It recently reconnected equestrian trails within the woodlands of James S. Long Regional Park, adding two miles to a well-worn two-mile path.

Northern Virginia equestrians have long used the trails for pleasure riding and fox hunting. Now the paths are open for hiking, mountain biking, dog walking and bird-watching. The trails showcase four low-water creek crossings, several tree jumps for horses and scenic overlooks of Catharpin Creek, which feeds into Bull Run. Multiple species of trees, including an abundance of dogwoods, will be in full bloom during spring.

Sit in one place long enough, and deer will cross your path.

Last month, members of the group traversed much of the 66-acre park to clear land and create paths for natural recreational use.

"We're not out to destroy land," said Scott Helberg, vice president of the organization. "We want to keep it usable. The only way to do that is respect it. As long as you do that, the land will be there for you when you want it."

Trails have ranked high on the list of recreational needs in county-sponsored surveys.

The Board of County Supervisors updated the chapter on parks and open space in the Comprehensive Plan this year to include the creation of a countywide network of trails. It also declared a goal of preserving 39 percent of Prince William County as "protected open space."

Planning Director Stephen K. Griffin has said the county intends to work with developers to ensure that land is set aside for the trails.

The coalition, which formed two years ago and has a dozen members, is trying to expand its ranks. So far, it has relied on the sweat equity of members. Within the next few months, it expects to attain nonprofit status, so it can begin collecting tax-deductible donations.

"Why pay taxes to the county if you can contribute to a nonprofit that works [toward] that interest?" Helberg said of adding to Prince William's open space and passive recreation.

The coalition's first task was to connect a mile of trails along Valley View Park's tree-lined fields in 2006. It followed up with Andrew Leitch Park in June.

Next on the list is a cleanup of the Silver Lake stream Sept. 27 as part of National Public Lands Day.

Supervisor W.S. Covington III (R-Brentsville) praised the group's efforts and said he hopes the eastern end of the county gets its fair share of trails.

"The eastern end has gotten shortchanged," he said. "It's always good when citizens step forward who are not looking to add to government, because government is overwhelmed. I welcome them if they are truly looking to develop and maintain trails along the heavily populated corridors."