C.F. Phelps is a Wildlife Management Area run by Virginia's Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. While it's primary purpose is hunting and bird dog training, its network of about 10 miles of access roads and single tracks through wooded land is also used by horseback riders and is a wonderful secluded place to spend an afternoon in the (bike) saddle. Except in deer hunting season the 4,000 acres of land are mostly empty of people; the tract is so large and the parking areas so numerous that it is easy to avoid disturbing the few others who utilize the space. Avoid deer season out of respect to hunters and for safety's sake. and ride after noon during turkey season. Also avoid the waterfowl impoundment area during any type of waterfowl hunting season.
The majority of the year this is a wonderful place to ride and explore. It borders the beautiful Rappahannock River and shows off the beauty of Fauquier County. Do note you must have an access permit to use the land for non-hunting purposes. It is very inexpensive and well-worth the opportunity to ride in a very under-utilized space in rural Fauquier County.
