Scenic Walking, Backpacking, & Hiking Trails In Fairfax County

Burke Lake Park

Burke Lake Park boasts one of the 10 best fitness trails in the nation. That’s the assessment of the American Hiking Society, after its trail specialists hiked high and low to find top 10 candidates in or near a major metropolitan area (close enough to use before or after work or on lunch hours) with portions that can be completed in 60-90 minutes. The Burke Lake Loop Trail follows the shoreline 4.7 miles around the lake, with bays jutting out from the main body of water that provide a welcome sense of solitude. Gravel surfaced for most of its length, Burke Lake’s loop trail is “a fine choice for either a brisk walk or a run,” plus it’s also suitable for biking.

W&OD Trail

Often called the skinniest park in Virginia, Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Railroad Regional Park is a paved trail between Shirlington and Purcellville, Virginia. Hike, cycle or skate the 45-mile route along the former roadbed of the Washington & Old Dominion Railroad, which runs through the urban heartland and into the Virginia countryside.  This trail spans the length of Fairfax County from east to west and there are multiple entry points along the trail. Click here for trail information. 

If You're Looking for a Little Bit of a Challenge While Hiking, Adventure to One of The Following Locations:

River, Ridge, Cct and Swamp Trail at Great Falls Park

This route, located adjacent to Great Falls Park, is a favorite of locals looking to burn some calories while taking in some scenic views. There's just something special about being able to hike alongside the water and being challenged by some rock scrambles with the payoff being some gorgeous views. When the weather is good the park and trails tend to get busy, so we advise our friends that they should go as early as they can.

Bull Run Occoquan Trail

The Bull Run Occoquan Trail is the perfect trek for hikers who want a bit of history with their hike as the area played a vital role at different times in history from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War.  This incredible path takes visitors through more than 5,000 acres of scenic woodlands and includes various battle points and land features, as well as the more curious, like a grouping of earthen mounds that once comprised a make-shift Civil War fort.

For the best nature trails to see wildlife in Fairfax County, consider visiting parks or nature reserves with diverse habitats. Some popular options include Great Falls Park, Huntley Meadows Park, Riverbend Park, and Mason Neck State Park. These areas offer opportunities to spot various wildlife, such as birds, deer, foxes, and even bald eagles near the Potomac River.

Fairfax County is home to numerous parks with excellent walking trails. Apart from the aforementioned parks known for wildlife, other options include Scott's Run Nature Preserve, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Lake Accotink Park, and Burke Lake Park. Each park offers unique walking trails suitable for different preferences and fitness levels.

Yes, several parks in Fairfax County have walking loops, providing convenient routes for walkers and hikers. Parks like Burke Lake Park, Lake Accotink Park, and Mason Neck State Park have well-marked loop trails, allowing visitors to complete a circuit and return to their starting point.

For a lake walking trail experience, consider visiting Lake Accotink Park, which features a scenic trail that loops around Lake Accotink. Burke Lake Park is another popular option, offering a 4.5-mile walking trail encircling Burke Lake. Both parks provide beautiful lake views and opportunities for a leisurely stroll or a more active hike.