The W&OD trail runs directly through downtown Leesburg. Located at mile marker 34, Fire Works Pizza is a fantastic option for food and drinks and is located 1/5 mile from the trail. Three-time winner of Loudoun County’s best pizza title, Fire Works offers wood-fired pizza with local ingredients and has over 100 beers as well as an extensive wine list, including many local ones. The Smokey Blue pizza, featuring Gorgonzola, wood-roasted onions and local bacon is a house favorite. Fire Works has an outdoor patio overlooking downtown Leesburg and with its fresh-fired pizza and extensive local beverage list, this joint serves as a turnaround point for many.

Within the Tuscarora Mill complex, check out Crooked Run Brewing. Crooked Run is a brewpub that offers small-batch, fresh-brewed beer with attention to detail and creative takes on well-known styles. Brewers recommend the Carrera Torcida for cyclists, a crisp and refreshing Mexican lager. Have a beer on their patio, and you will be surrounded by elderberry, sour cherry and hops all grown for use in their beers. Worth mentioning is the opening of the first Delirium Café in the United States, also in downtown Leesburg, scheduled for May 15. And if you have energy to ride out to Purcellville’s quaint downtown, the farthest point, you will be rewarded with beautiful scenery on the way to Catoctin Creek Distillery, La Petite LouLou Creperie, BBQ, ice cream and more—all a short distance from the end of the trail. What makes the W&OD trail so special is that it has something for everyone. Riders can choose the length of their ride, and at any point be within minutes of a great place to eat and drink. It’s all about exploring and discovery—have fun.

Rock Creek Park in DC offers an equally wonderful trail and is a fantastic option for folks looking to make the most of nature within the city. Unlike the W&OD, which offers just one path, Rock Creek Park is much larger and offers options. The best of Rock Creek is accessible on weekends and holidays, when Beach Drive is closed to vehicles during the day. Cyclists can start at Beach Drive and Broad Branch for another “out and back,” which continues north 19.5 miles, one way. Riders can access the trail from Cleveland Park or Van Ness stops on the Red line. Those who follow the trail to the head of the creek at Lake Needwood will need to do a little route finding, much of which is outlined on the website bikewashington.org.

Food and beverage options are sparse on this trail, but nature’s lush surroundings are abundant and you may find yourself in awe of how just how beautiful a park Rock Creek is. For much of the trail, cyclists have the option of biking either on paved road or on the parallel bike path. Getting to Lake Needwood is a treat and re-energizes a cyclist amid a long ride. However, remember to hydrate the proper amount and eat the right food before you leave on this (or any) long ride. Focus on replenishing electrolytes and carbohydrates as key factors, in addition to hydration. Most experienced cyclists recommend breakfast around two hours before your ride, giving enough time to get digestion under way. Oatmeal, or a two- or three-egg omelet is a great way to start the day; fruits and vegetables are good choices too.