Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The 17-mile-long Mount Vernon Trail begins at the home of George Washington in Mount Vernon and
parallels the Potomac River north to Theodore Roosevelt Island. This portion of the trail starts at the
Belle Haven marina, where sailboats, canoes, and kayaks can be rented.
Heading north from Belle Haven, the river will be on your right and the George Washington Me-
morial Parkway on the left. The trail follows marshland at the edge of the river. Look for ducks and
geese, especially in spring and fall. The abundance of honeysuckle vines bloom in late summer and
perfume the air.
As you look across the river from Belle Haven, the large complex you see is the National Harbor, a
new shopping and dining complex built as part of the revitalization of southwest D.C. You can also see
the Woodrow Wilson Bridge.
Before passing under the bridge, turn right at the sign for Jones Point Lighthouse. This doesn't look
like most lighthouses, as the beacon light is very short and sits on top of a small white cottage. The
light worked from 1856 to 1925, warning sailors of the sandbars along this section of the river. It also
marks the southwestern-most corner of the original District of Columbia (land was given back to Vir-
ginia in 1847). The park around the lighthouse was a popular place for picnicking, boating, fishing,
and, in the winter, ice skating. A renewal project is underway. You can take a short trail down to the
river's edge to look for waterfowl, such as ducks, geese, and possibly bald eagles.
From Jones Point, you can rejoin the trail into Old Town without returning all the way to the main
trail. Follow the signs for Union Street and head into town. At the corner of Jefferson Street, the path
ends and you will be walking on city streets. Follow Union Street to King Street. Spend as much time
as you like visiting the shops and restaurants along King Street and through the neighborhood. Historic
sites in the area include Christ Church, Gadsby's Tavern, and the Lyceum. For more information, visit
www.visitalexandriava.com.
When you're ready to return, walk up to Washington Street and head south on the sidewalk to rejoin
the trail where you turned off for Jones Point.
