Fun in the sun can be difficult in excessive heat. But even with the hot weather, you can still make the most of your summer at these parks throughout Northern Virginia with plenty of shaded areas to keep cool. For covered walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots, visit these six shady parks for a relaxing afternoon with friends and family.
Alum Spring Park
With its magnificent trees and a covered picnic shelter, this wooded park has no shortage of shade. Wander through multiple walking trails in shady Alum Spring Park and cross the footbridge for beautiful views of the stream. Picnic tables and grills allow for easy get-togethers, and new playground equipment features monkey bars, slides, and climbing stations. 1 Greenbrier Dr., Fredericksburg
Edwards Landing Park
Explore relaxing nature trails with plenty of trees for shade at Edwards Landing Park. This location features access to the Potomac Heritage Trail, a wooded path leading down to the Potomac River. A covered picnic shelter with tables and a large charcoal grill is available to rent, perfect for hosting gatherings of up to 60 people. 901 Powhatan Ct. NE, Leesburg
Ellanor C. Lawrence Park
This 650-acre park in western Fairfax has endless natural and cultural wonders to discover. Four miles of hiking trails provide ample shade and are ideal for picnicking, bird watching, and exploring streams and meadows. Stop by the Walney Visitor Center to learn about the park’s history and see live reptiles and amphibians. Events throughout the summer include ice cream making, herbal tea in the garden, and hands-on activities for children. 5040 Walney Rd., Chantilly
Lacey Woods Park
Stunning wooded areas and nature trails make the perfect backdrop for an afternoon at Lacey Woods Park. You can relax at the covered picnic shelter, gather around the fire pit, or cook a barbeque meal with the charcoal grills. The park also features a playground, basketball court, and a large rectangular field. 1200 N George Mason Dr., Arlington
Locust Shade Park
For beautiful scenery and shaded trails, Locust Shade Park is ideal for any outdoor activity. An eight-acre pond is surrounded by impressive trees. You can walk along 3.2 miles of nature trails or try the activities at a 15-station fitness trail. There’s also a sand volleyball court, three tennis courts, eight pavilions, and three playgrounds. Visit the Jean C. Smith Amphitheater for family entertainment while sitting under the colorful shade structure. 4701 Locust Shade Dr., Triangle
Rady Park
Whether you want to stroll in the arboretum or admire wildlife around the stream, Rady Park has something for everyone. Shaded areas include picnic spaces and the pavilion, as well as several walking paths. The park also has a playground, sand volleyball courts, and a soccer field. 540 Evans Ave., Warrenton
Feature image of Locust Shade Park courtesy Prince William County Parks
