Background
The Wayfinding and Amenities Implementation Study was a two phase process. Phase 1 of the study was completed in 2024, while Phase 2 was completed in February 2026.
Phase 1
Phase One of the study assessed how consistently the PHNST is promoted throughout the Northern Virginia region, to evaluate where there are gaps in the trail’s promotion and navigation [e.g., logos, blazes, and informational signs (see below)], and to collect data to share with trail managers and the general public on the location and condition of the variety of wayfinding types, amenities, and points of interest. Phase One, as outlined in a recently published report, resulted in an inventory of existing wayfinding and amenities along the trail using volunteer collected data. The data inventory is displayed in associated interactive maps. The study’s interactive maps are primarily intended to be used by PHNST trail managers to inform planning and funding efforts.
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Phase 2
This phase examined where the trail requires increased and improved signage and amenities for greater trail accessibility. NVRC's hired consultant, Kimley-Horn, utilized data collected from Phase 1 to create a full wayfinding and amenities implementation plan, including the prioritization of recommended sites to install new signage and amenities. The recommended sites and their associated priority levels are displayed in interactive maps. The study was completed in February 2026.
Phase 1 Study Results & Maps
Report
​NVRC finalized the study in fall 2024 and produced a report highlighting the data collected, key takeaways from wayfinding and amenity distributions, and next steps for developing a wayfinding and amenities implementation plan. Key data points include:
4,325
Locations Surveyed
2,564
Wayfinding Points
1,007
Amenities
465
Information Panels
Interactive Maps
NVRC also produced online maps to explore the locations of the existing wayfinding signs, amenities, and informational panels along the trail, including photos and current condition of each item: ​
Webinar​
NVRC shared the results of the study on Monday, October 21st from 11 am - 12 pm. The virtual event offered an opportunity to share findings from the study, ways to view the mapped data, new interpretive signage, and next steps for a PHNST wayfinding and amenities implementation plan.
For any questions, please contact Jill Kaneff at jkaneff@novaregion.org.
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Phase 2 Study Results & Maps
Report
​NVRC's contractor, Kimley-Horn, completed Phase 2 of the study in February 2026 and produced a report highlighting the amenities and wayfinding site recommendations and prioritization methodology, data caveats, and considerations for future implementation. Key recommendations for new amenities and wayfinding include:
100
Benches
8
Restrooms
103
Bike Signs
80
PHNST Maps
And
Many More!
Interactive Maps
NVRC has produced online maps to display the existing and recommended wayfinding and amenities sites for the PHNST, including the associated priority level of each recommended site:​
Interactive Maps Tutorial
This short tutorial from NVRC staff walks you through navigating the Amenities and Wayfinding Recommendations Maps and their interactive features.