The Saunders-Monticello Trail

Normal Trail Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

To review local daily sunrise and sunset times, CLICK HERE »

Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and for severe inclement weather. In the winter, morning icy conditions may also lead to delayed openings.

Come Hike with Us

With native hardwood forest, deep ravines and spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the 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 and park system are open to the public daily. Please observe all signage at the park and be aware that a number of changes and additional safety measures are currently in place. Visit the Trail Hours and Rules to learn more »

Access to the Monticello 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.

The Monticello Trail features over 2 miles of trails that feature shady paths and boardwalks and a maximum 5% grade

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)

Restrooms
Restrooms are only available when Monticello is open.

Trash
To reduce employees’ contact with waste, guests are asked to carry out trash and properly dispose of waste outside of the park.

Pets
Dogs must be on a leash at all times while on trails and in the park. Dogs are not permitted on the boardwalks for safety reasons. However, there are seven miles of rustic, pet-friendly trails.