The 4.95K Fun Run & Ribbon Cutting returns to McLean, Virginia on June 27th, marking the grand opening of a new era for local transportation with the unveiling of the 495 Express Lanes Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail. This unique event celebrates not just a race but an essential addition to the community's infrastructure that encourages sustainable travel options.
On this warm summer evening in McLean, as families gather along the freshly laid trail near the bustling streets of Tysons Corner, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation mixed with excitement for what lies ahead. The air is filled with the sound of children laughing and adults chatting animatedly about their plans to explore the new pathway that winds through green spaces dotted with native trees and wildflowers. As runners lace up and begin stretching on the hard yet dry surface, they’re surrounded by a community coming together to celebrate an initiative aimed at enhancing mobility for all.
This year marks the inaugural edition of the 4.95K Fun Run & Ribbon Cutting, though the groundwork has been laid over many months with countless planning sessions involving local authorities and transportation experts alike. The trail itself is part of VDOT’s ambitious 495 NEXT project, which added new Express Lanes from Tysons to Maryland in November 2025. With this event, residents are invited to be among the first to experience these enhancements firsthand. Participants will not only receive a sense of pride as they walk or run along the trail but also contribute to a greater cause by supporting local initiatives that promote healthy living and environmental sustainability.
The race course winds through scenic McLean, beginning at the heart of Tysons Corner near the 495 Express Lanes interchange. Runners will navigate a mix of paved pathways with gradual inclines leading up to small bridges crossing over gentle streams—highlighting both natural beauty and engineering prowess. The route is meticulously marked every half-kilometer, ensuring participants stay on track as they loop back towards the finish line in front of the ribbon cutting ceremony site.
At the starting line under a canopy of trees shading runners from early June sun, there’s an air of camaraderie among families gathered to support each other. As the race kicks off, spectators cheer along stretches that pass by local landmarks like parks and schools, creating moments of community pride. The elevation profile is gentle with minimal changes in terrain, making it accessible for all ages while still offering a satisfying challenge for those pushing their limits.
For this day’s run, participants should expect comfortable daytime temperatures hovering around 23.6°C (74°F), with slight winds and high humidity typical of early summer afternoons in Virginia. The trail surface is expected to remain dry thanks to the region's lower rainfall during June, ensuring a smooth and safe experience for all runners.
4.95K Fun Run/Walk
4.95K • Start: 08:30:00 • Fee: $0.00
495M Kids Race
495m • Start: 09:15:00 • Fee: $0.00
To secure your spot at this inaugural event, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/McLean/495FunRun where registration is free. Early sign-ups are encouraged as space may fill up quickly due to high interest in the new trail opening celebration. Bib pickup will take place on-site from 12 PM onwards with no additional items required for collection.
The starting line address can be found at Tysons Corner, McLean, Virginia near the 495 Express Lanes interchange. All participants must adhere to a minimum age requirement of 3 years old for both the Fun Run and Kids Race categories. For first-time attendees, bringing comfortable footwear suitable for running on paved trails is recommended along with light layers that can be adjusted as temperatures rise.
As you prepare to lace up your shoes this June in McLean, Virginia, remember that you’re not just participating in a race but becoming part of an important community milestone designed to enrich local landscapes and lifestyles. The 4.95K Fun Run & Ribbon Cutting promises a memorable day filled with fun for the whole family as well as meaningful engagement around sustainable living initiatives.
