Updated March 21, 2022. Though the weather isn’t quite as cooperative, venturing out early morning this time of year rewards us with much more dramatic sunrises than in the summer months. Why? Well, NOAA says that in summer the air circulation is more sluggish and the photochemical reactions that cause smog and happen occur more quickly–both of which can mute those pink and orange hues. Here are 6 spots to catch the sunrise in our area.
Mason Neck State Park
Though in NoVA, this 1,814-acre Lorton park in southern Fairfax County feels a world away. It’s set on a peninsula formed by Pohick Bay on the north, Belmont Bay on the south, and the Potomac River. Watch the sunrise while spotting bald eagles, great blue herons, osprey, and other wildlife. 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton
Belle Haven Marina
Located just south of Old Town Alexandria along the George Washington Parkway and adjacent to Dyke Marsh, you can access this spot from the Mount Vernon Trail or Bell Haven Park. Walk the boardwalk that goes over the wetlands to Dyke Marsh for a gorgeous sunrise view. 6401 George Washington Pkwy., Alexandria
Netherlands Carillon / Marine Corps War Memorial
The bells that serve as a thank you from the Dutch government for U.S. assistance during World War II and the Marine Corps War Memorial (better known as the Iwo Jima Memorial) are perfect foreground subjects for catching (and capturing on film) the backdrop of the rising sun. Arlington
The Pier at Leesylvania State Park
The Woodbridge park is nestled along the tidal shores of the Potomac River, and one of the highlights is the 300-foot accessible fishing pier. Grab your camera, take a seat, listen to the lapping water, and snap some photos of Mother Nature in action. 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge
Henry House Hill at Manassas National Battlefield Park
Named for the house of the Henry family that sits atop it, this hill was an important site during the battles of the First and Second Bull Run in the Civil War. It also has an unobstructed view of the sky and open grass field that make it perfect to catch those AM rays. Southeast of the intersection of Rt. 29 and Rt. 234, Gainesville
Alexandria Waterfront
Take in views of the Potomac River and Washington, DC while watching the sunrise, then stay for the morning to enjoy coffee and breakfast at one of the restaurants in the waterfront area of one of the country’s oldest and most charming towns. 1 Prince St., Alexandria
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