YORKTOWN — The National Park Service (NPS) at Colonial National Historical Park and non-profit partner BikeWalk Williamsburg invite the community to celebrate National Park Week by biking, walking or running on a seven-mile portion of the Colonial Parkway for three days from April 23-25.
Park staff will close the Colonial Parkway to vehicle access between Highway 199/Kingspoint and Route 359 at Jamestown beginning at 7 a.m. on Friday, April 23 and ending at 8 p.m. on Sunday, April 25.
The National Park service encourages visitors and community members to recreate responsibly at all times, including during Pedal the Parkway.
When outdoors, face masks are required on NPS-managed lands, including the Colonial Parkway, when physical distance cannot be maintained. Whether seeking wide-open spaces or exploring a historic areas, visitors should follow CDC guidance to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Portable restrooms and a handwashing station will be available at Archer’s Hope, thanks to support from BikeWalk Williamsburg.
Indoor restrooms are available at the Jamestown Visitor Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, BikeWalk Williamsburg organized and sponsored annual
Pedal the Parkway events, which included a “rest stop” and other activities. In order to ensure visitor safety and physical distancing during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we encourage visitors to enjoy a more low-key event without those “extra” activities this year.
“While we can’t have the usual party at Archer’s Hope this year we’re hoping the three days will give everyone an opportunity to enjoy the Parkway in a safe and fun way,” said Steve Williams, acting superintendent. “As always this event is non-competitive and suitable for all ages and abilities.”
The Colonial Parkway is a 23-mile scenic roadway stretching from the York River at Yorktown to the James River at Jamestown. It connects Virginia’s Historic Triangle: Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown.
Pedal the Parkway takes place this during National Park Week. The week’s theme days include:
Friday, April 23: Friendship Friday
Caring for our parks is a big job. Park partners, like BikeWalk Williamsburg, have played an
important role since the NPS was founded in 1916, and this tradition of generous, committed support continues today with individuals, groups and communities helping preserve and enhance the national park experience. In honor of Friendship Friday, bring your pals to bike or walk on the Parkway!
Saturday, April 24: Junior Ranger Day
The NPS Junior Ranger program provides fun and engaging ways for young people to connect with our country’s heritage and landscapes, both virtually and in-person. Pedal the Parkway participants can pick up Jr. Ranger booklets from Park Rangers outside the Yorktown Battlefield and Jamestown Visitor Centers.
Sunday, April 25: BARK Ranger Day
National parks are fun to share with those we love – including those of the fluffy variety! BARK Ranger principles ensure a pet’s visit to a park is fun and safe. Pets are welcome to join you during Pedal the Parkway, just remember to bring bags for pet waste.
Free parking is available at the Jamestown Settlement, 2110 Jamestown Road and at the NPS Visitor Center on Jamestown Island. For more information about National Park Week visit nps.gov/npweek and nationalparkweek.org.
For more information about location, fees, and hours, please visit the website for Colonial National Historical Park: https://www.nps.gov/colo/index.htm.
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