The Capital Trails Coalition is a collaboration of public and private organizations, agencies, and volunteers working to advance completion of an interconnected network of multi-use trails for metropolitan Washington, DC. The Coalition convenes and coordinates among the public and private stakeholders who are critical to accomplishing the vision of an interconnected network.
The geographic footprint of the network is the District of Columbia, City of Alexandria, Arlington and Fairfax counties in Virginia, and Prince George’s and Montgomery counties in Maryland.
Our Vision:
The Capital Trails Coalition seeks to create a world-class network of multi-use trails that are equitably distributed throughout the Washington D.C. metropolitan region. The regional trails network will transform public life by providing healthy, low-stress access to open space and reliable transportation for people of all ages and abilities.
The Capital Trails Coalition will seek to create a trails network that is:
- Accessible to people of all ages and abilities—trails will be designed to accommodate walkers, strollers, runners, bike riders, the mobility-impaired, equestrians, and other non-motorized users.
- Healthy and Safe—the trails network will promote healthy bodies, minds and environments, be well-maintained and plowed, feature lighting where appropriate, and provide safe crossings at roadways;
- Equitably Distributed across Jurisdictions—the network will serve and link all communities in the region; the coalition will emphasize connecting traditionally underserved communities to the network;
- Reliable for Transportation—the trails network will provide effective transportation connections within and among urban and suburban neighborhoods, activity centers and the region’s core; it will link people with transit stations and entertainment venues, parks and schools, shopping districts and libraries, historic sites and monuments, jobs and public services. The network will provide a healthy, environmentally friendly alternative to motorized travel.
- Accessible to Open Space—the trails network will provide respite and recreation close to home; it will connect people to the natural world— traversing parks, stream valleys, and green spaces;
- World-class— the trails network will be built to the highest design standards, supported by accessible trailheads, wayfinding maps and signs, comfort stations, interpretation of history and natural environments, public art and sustainable landscapes.
A well-connected regional trails network promises to help transform public life by linking diverse communities, promoting personal and environmental health, and building sustainable local economies.
