With daylight saving time around the corner, it’s time to take advantage of the longer days and warming temperatures. If you’re looking to reinstate your evening walks with the start of spring, instead of taking a stroll through the neighborhood, consider changing up the scenery. Here are five parks and trails to visit during your after-work walks.
Alexandria Waterfront Walk
Find yourself near Old Town Alexandria? Take advantage of the city’s waterfront parks. With 10 options along the water, you can decide whether you want to enjoy a leisurely stroll through one park or take in the views from multiple parks, including Jones Point Park, Oronoco Bay Park, and Waterfront Park. Various locations throughout Alexandria
Burke Lake Park
After a day in the office or at home, a walk around the lake is just what you need. The Fairfax County Park includes 4.7 miles of paved and gravel trails that wrap around the lake. If you don’t have time to finish the loop in one go, walk a portion of the trail and find the perfect spot to take in the spring sunset. 7315 Ox Rd., Fairfax Station
Claude Moore Park
Take in the greenery of Claude Moore Park. The park features 11 miles of hiking trails, so you can choose your own adventure. Some notable trails include the Scout Trail, which encompasses most of the park, and Little Stone Mountain Trail, which loops around the two ponds. The park is open from 7 a.m. to sunset. 21544 Old Vestal’s Gap Rd., Sterling
Neabsco Regional Park
For water and wildlife views, head down to Woodbridge. This nature preserve boasts a boardwalk that walks you right across Neabsco Creek. Make sure to bring a pair of binoculars to add a bit of bird-watching to your walk. The park is a habitat for great blue herons, mallards, and red-winged blackbirds. The park is open from dawn until one hour after dark daily. 15125 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge
Reston Trail Network
Change up your nightly walk and head to Reston. The pre-planned community has over 55 miles of trails. Some of the most popular options include the Green Trail (Reston Town Center to Lake Anne), Blue Trail (Tall Oaks to Lake Anne to North Point Trail), Pink Trail (North Point Parks Loop), Red Trail (Lake Thoreau Loop), and Turquoise Trail (South Lakes Village Center to Hunters Woods Center). Throughout Reston
Feature image of Burke Lake Park, stock.adobe.com
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