The Winchester Green Circle project, when completed, will provide safe facilities and accommodations for both bicyclists and pedestrians, to access major destinations in the city.
The circle connects areas of historic, recreational, educational and natural interest. Some of those attractions include Glen Burnie Historic House & Gardens/Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, Jim Barnett Park, Shenandoah University, Old Town Winchester, and the Abrams Creek Wetlands Preserve.
Where possible the routes follow local streams emphasizing the restoration, protection and interpretation of natural resources and urban green spaces.
*Printable brochure with map COMING SOON
Etiquette for Trail Users & Safety Regulations
For all:
- Stay on the trail.
- Tread gently when the trail is muddy so as not to damage the trail.
- On park trails, report downed trees or washed out bridges to the City of Winchester (540-667-1815).
- Share the trail – cyclists yield to all other trail users.
Cyclists:
- Approach and pass other trail users with care – yield to all other trail users. When approaching from behind, announce yourself so you do not startle other trail users. Reduce speed in order to pass safely.
- Approach blind curves with caution – assume someone is coming in the other direction.
- Be a positive reflection of the local cycling community.
Hikers/Joggers:
- Stay to the right of the trail – pass on the left.
- When hiking/jogging with a dog, obey posted lease regulations. Other trail users may be frightened by your dog and be unsure how to pass safely.
- Move to the right to allow faster users to pass. Announce your intention to pass other trail users, and reduce speed in order to pass safely. Pass on the left.
Source: http://greatfallstrailblazers.org/trailetiquette.html
City Code Provision
While traveling on the Old Town Mall, cyclists must walk their bike instead of ride as stated in the City of Winchester City Code.
Activities on the Trail
Green Circle 5K and Kids Run
The annual Green Circle 5K and 1-Mile Kid’s Fun Run races, which are sponsored by the Shenandoah Valley Runners and the Shenandoah University Physical Therapy Department, is held on the first Saturday of October each year. The races begin and end at the Abrams Crossing Shopping Center at 621 West Jubal Early Drive and are routed through the Abram’s Creek Wetlands Preserve. The 5K race begins at 8:30 am and the Kid’s Fun Run begins at 9:15 am. Registration begins at 7:30 am or register in advance online. All proceeds go to support the Winchester Green Circle.
Click here to register online.
Abrams Creek Wetlands Preserve Nature Walks
The focus of these guided nature walks, held in the spring and fall, will be on birds, flowers, trees and signs of the season. The group meets at 8:30 am in the Abrams Crossing Shopping Center (in the Children of America) parking lot at 621 West Jubal Early Drive. FREE. For more information, call Jim Smith at (540) 303-3983 or see the current Winchester Parks and Recreation program guide for upcoming dates.
Seasonal Interpretive Walking Tours
Use the interpretive signage along the Abrams Creek Wetlands Preserve section of the trail to assist with migratory bird watching and environmental education.
Contact Information
Existing sections of the Green Circle Trail are maintained by:
Winchester Parks and Recreation
1001 East Cork Street
Winchester, VA 22601
(540) 662-4946
Email
Future sections of the Green Circle Trail are managed by:
City of Winchester Public Services Department
15 North Cameron Street
Winchester, VA 22601
(540) 667-1815
Email
Support the Green Circle Trail
You can support the Green Circle by donating to the Winchester Parks Foundation. All funds go directly to the project or program selected by the donor (make sure to designate the Green Circle Trail on your donation).
Winchester Parks Foundation
P.O. Box 3012
Winchester, VA 22604