Saunders-Monticello Trail

Trails at Monticello

With native hardwood forest, deep ravines, and spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Saunders-Monticello Trail winds its way toward Monticello and back in a very manageable four miles. A maximum grade of 5% keeps it completely accessible to walkers, cyclists, and those in wheelchairs. 

The Saunders-Monticello Trail is within a larger park system of trails that are open to the public daily. Please observe all signage at the park.

• Trail Hours, Rules, and FAQs

• Trail Map

• Trail History and Features

• Support the Trail

Parking

There are three parking lots available for trail users:

• Route 53: 503 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, VA 22902 (open sunrise to sunset)
• Route 20: 678 Dairy Barn Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22902 (open sunrise to sunset)
• Monticello's David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center: 1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, VA 22902 (only open during Monticello's regular hours of operation). Note, access to Monticello's visitor center campus requires passing through a security screening checkpoint. This includes access to the restrooms, café, shop, and all locations on the visitor center campus. No weapons, including firearms, knives, or sharp objects, are permitted beyond the checkpoint.

Restrooms

Restrooms are only available during regular hours.

Trash

Guests are asked to “Leave No Trace” and clean up all trash and pet waste.

Pets

Dogs must be on a leash at all times while on trails and in the park. Leashed dogs are now allowed on the boardwalks.

Electric Bicycles

Electric bicycles are not permitted on the Saunders-Monticello Trail.