Best Spring Hikes & Walks in Fairfax County, VA

Warm weather temperatures have you itching to get outside and take a hike? Fortunately, you’ll find great spots to enjoy spring hikes and walks in Fairfax County, VA. Indeed, the county is home to over 900 miles of hiking trails and vast green spaces. There is a hike for people of every ability here in Northern VA.

If you’re feeling the pull of outdoor adventure, you’re not alone. It is human instinct to turn to nature whenever our routines start to get the better of us. Spending time communing with nature via long walks and hikes provides stress release and improves your health—not to mention the feeling of the breeze and witnessing the amazing dance of the tree shadows hitting the ground.

Top 5 Best Spring Hikes & Walks

If you are looking for recommendations to visit a spring hike or walk in Fairfax, here are five prime locations—covering 2 to 5 miles—that you need to visit right now!

1. Huntley Meadows Park

This park is touted as the hidden gem of Fairfax County’s park system. In this park, you can witness every force of nature working together to create a soothing environment. The park contains a 2-mile loop trail that begins at the Visitor Center which takes you through woodlands and on a boardwalk that spans a marsh rich with local wildlife.

As you walk, check out Historic Huntley, an 1825 mansion on the property.

During your walk, you will be able to see some resident beavers, different kinds of birds, and deer. The park offers an excellent place for a picnic as the Observation Tower offers a great view of the entire park.

2. Burke Lake Park

The Burke Lake Park gets its name from the massive 218-acre lake which sits in its center. Comprising of over 800-acres of land, this park plays its role in keeping the Fairfax County’s green spaces alive. The track surrounding the lake is of 4.7 miles, and it offers terrific scenery.

The main loop meanders around the lake from which many small trails break out. These trails end up at benches and overlooks of the shoreline. The park is also best known for its camping, fishing, and picnicking experiences.

3. Scotts Run Nature Preserve

This park in Fairfax County is part of the Potomac River gorge. You will be looking at the flowing water body and a fantastic display of natural geology. The park is nearly 400 acre and the several streams descending combine to give it a rocky cascade look. Scotts Run also holds a little history lesson as you can walk down to see the ruins of the Burning Cabin.

Other than the main trail, several small trails go down to offer better vantage points of the river. Before you head out, remember that swimming, bathing, and wading are not allowed in the park.

4. The Big Rocky Run Stream Valley Trail

Pushing a baby stroller? You might prefer checking out the Big Rocky Run Stream Valley Trail. Here, you’ll find four miles of hiking trails awaiting you.

However, there is one that is particularly suited for those with strollers or wheelchairs—the two-mile loop trail. This trail offers more accessibility as it features a paved/gravel combination surface that’s easier to navigate with wheels.

Enjoy the chirps of native bird species, the playful antics of squirrels, and lush forest landscape offered by nature.

5. Cub Run Stream Valley Trail

The Cub Run trail starts with a wood chip path which later splits into two roads. Each track is 0.5 miles and offers scenic views. The entire trail is relatively flat and is known to be dog-friendly. A major attraction of this hike is the picturesque bridge and stream on the Stonecroft Boulevard. The entire path is paved, but it is not marked. Since both sides are down and back, you stay close to the entry point and the park that is located there.  

There is not a shortage of spring hikes and walks in Fairfax County, VA. We are fortunate to enjoy a robust park and rec system that allows us to discover the beauty of nature right here at home.