Lack of Water Fountains on Mt Vernon Trail Between Arlington and Alexandria

[ejohnsondc]

Is anyone else surprised by the lack of water fountains along the Mt Vernon Bike Trail between Arlington and Alexandria?

Today I rode north on Mt V trail, connected to Four Mile Run, onto the W&OD, over to Custis, then headed back home on Mt V trail from Rosslyn. The W&OD and Custis have sufficient water fountains located every few miles. I saw ZERO water fountains between Rosslyn and Alexandria while riding on Mt V trail.

With my water bottle empty, I was desperately keeping my eyes open for a water fountain located along the bike trail but never saw one. Between the Custis and Mt V trail, I ended up riding 10-15 miles without crossing a water fountain where I could refill my bottle.

Surely I can be the first one to notice this. Does anyone else know the background here? Are there reasons no water fountains exist along the most popular section of the Mt V trail or has anyone ever tried to petition to get one installed?

[Arlingtonrider]

I don't know all the details, but I do know that the NPS is well aware of the issue and has researched ways to try to bring water out to the trail. I think there is some environmental reason why they can't lay the pipes to do it, and it's the same reason why any restrooms at Gravelly point won't have standard running water and flush toilets. I'm sure they would be willing to explain the reason if you contact them. They have discussed the possibility of bringing temporary water stations out to the trail on hot weekends. This was one of the subjects of discussion at a meeting about Gravelly Point a few months ago. You can get water by getting off the trail at Crystal City.

[dbb]

Might be appropriate for a wayfinding sign at the MVT-Crystal City connected to point to water.

[KLizotte]

I second Arlingtonrider's comments. Months ago this was brought up at a NPS meeting. I'm frustrated and confused why nothing has materialized by now, esp given how hot it is.

You can find water, air conditioning, and bathrooms at Crystal City and the Washington Sailing Marina marina; both are located right off the trail.

As dbb said, signs would be very useful.

[dbb]

There may be an opportunity for a water fountain along the trail near the maintenance facilities at DCA (between the Crystal City connection and the road crossing to the south.

What an opportunity for collaboration between NPS and the Airports Authority.

[MM2]

Besides Crystal City, you can get water at Columbia Island Marina, by taking the new underpass. Water available at the cafe or water fountain at the bathroom.

[CaseyKane50]

South of the Four Mile Run Trail and just off the Mount Vernon Trail is the Washington Sailing Marina. Water fountains, restrooms, food and drinks are available. There is also a restaurant at the marina.

[CaseyKane50]

A new water fountain has been installed at the south end of National Airport alongside the MVT.

[PotomacCyclist]

I just hope it remains operational. Many of the NPS water fountains on the National Mall/East Potomac Park rarely work. At least the last time I checked them. (Admittedly that was a while ago.)

[dasgeh]

I'm pretty sure the new plan for TR Island includes water fountains, too. We're told construction starts this year.