Whitney State Forest

Whitney State Forest is a 148-acre wooded area in Fauquier County featuring a network of trails that wind through diverse woodland sections. The paths connect different forest regions and pass through varying vegetation types and terrain.

The land was originally part of the North Wales Estate, known as the Hooewood tract, before becoming a state forest in 1972 following a donation by Helen Whitney Gibson. This gift established the property as a public protected forest area.

The forest serves multiple purposes including timber production, wildlife protection, and scientific forest management for educational and research activities.

The forest is open from dawn until dusk, and certain activities such as horseback riding and mountain biking require a State Forest Use Permit. It helps to check ahead about requirements for your intended use.

Ruins of an old stone house that once belonged to Henry Washington Ashton still stand within the forest boundaries. These remnants offer a glimpse into the property's previous private ownership.