Northern Virginia offers an abundance of parks and natural spaces, perfect for getting outside and enjoying your time. Here are 13 different spots for you to explore.
Great Falls Park | McLean
One of Northern Virginia’s most popular parks, this spot offers something for everyone — whether you’re up for a hike on its many trails or just want an easy, close-up view of the falls.
Pro tip: If you want more of a workout, you can cross the border into Maryland and check out the Billy Goat Trail on the other side of the river.
Sky Meadows State Park | Delaplane
With access to the Appalachian Trail, this park is a great option about an hour from downtown Arlington. It’s also one of Virginia State Parks’ International Dark Sky Parks, making it an excellent spot for stargazing.
Have you been to this wildlife refuge in NOVA? | Photo by Randy Streufert
Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge | Lorton
Established in 1969, this was one of the first wildlife refuges in the United States created specifically to protect bald eagles. Learn more about the trails that you can explore.
Morven Park | Leesburg
This historic site spans 1,000 acres of lawns, boxwood gardens, and horse pastures, and also features the Davis Mansion.
Burke Lake Park | Fairfax Station
Spanning 888 acres, this popular Northern Virginia park offers plenty to do for all ages. Visitors can ride the miniature train or carousel, play mini golf or disc golf, take a tour boat on the lake, or hike the scenic 4.7-mile loop trail.
This is one of the most popular bike spots in NOVA. | Photo via NOVA Parks
Washington and Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park | Arlington
There are many access points to this popular bike path, which runs 45 miles from Shirlington to Purcellville. Find the best access points here.
Potomac Overlook Regional Park | Arlington
This 67-acre park features miles of trails and offers a variety of educational opportunities, including demonstrations about local plants and wildlife.
Fred Crabtree Park | Herndon
There are various trails throughout this little park in Northern Virginia. We recommend checking out this 2.4-mile loop. Note: The trails are occasionally shared with mountain bikers, so stay alert while exploring.
Hal & Berni Hansen Regional Park | Aldie
This regional park is made up of 257 acres — plenty of space to explore. There are many programs for community members to discover. Plus, dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed.
A portion of Bull Run Occoquan Trail is also open to mountain biking. | Photo via NOVA Parks
Bull Run Occoquan Trail | Clifton
Being the longest natural surface trail in Northern Virginia, you won’t want to miss exploring this natural space. Pro tip: don’t miss the various historical sites along the way.
Huntley Meadows Park | Alexandria
Take a walk along the boardwalks around the wetlands of this park. There are also various programs ranging from classes and camps to birdwatching. Note: Dogs are only allowed on specific trails.
Pohick Bay Regional Park | Lorton
This park is a great one for kids, featuring the Pirates’ Cove Waterpark. If this doesn’t sound like your jam, grab a paddleboard, kayak, or canoe and set out on the bay.
Prince William Forest Park | Triangle
Explore 37 miles of scenic trails winding through the park, cast a line in Quantico Creek, or step back in time with a visit to the historic cabins once used by WWII spies.
