Watching gorgeous colors paint the sky is a summer pastime staple, and these spots in Northern Virginia provide the perfect setting to view sunsets. For a soothing solo activity or a casual viewing with family and friends, you’ll be left speechless at the picturesque skies while visiting these parks and scenic locations.
To catch the best sunsets, try to face west and choose an elevated, wide-open area where sunsets can reflect off the horizon. Partly cloudy skies promise the most colorful sunsets. Remember to stay until the very end of the sunset to observe all the beautiful shades of the sky.
Bear’s Den
As a historic landmark on the Appalachian Trail, this official hiker hostel offers a breathtaking westward facing overlook of the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. Take in all of the natural beauty and enjoy sunsets while sitting on the unique rock formation. Aside from beautiful views, visit the cottage in the woods for cozy cabin vibes and sit under the stars at the campground. 18393 Blueridge Mountain Rd., Bluemont
Cossey Park
This quiet neighborhood park features a fishing pond and open grass areas, perfect for watching sunsets. Cossey Botanical Park is also a tranquil spot for viewings, and during the day, set up a picnic at the park or discover several native plant species with educational sessions sponsored by the Virginia Cooperative Extension service. 1601 Kenmore Ave., Fredericksburg
Mason Neck State Park
For beautiful westerly views, Mason Neck State Park sits on a peninsula offering a plethora of spots to watch sunsets. You can also see them from the water with evening paddle adventures held through mid-September. Outdoor activities abound here with three miles of trails, a playground, kayaking, and bird watching for herons and bald eagles. 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton
Riverside Park
After a slight turn in the Potomac River, you’ll find yourself in Riverside Park which boasts gorgeous western views. It is the first park along the George Washington Memorial Parkway, and the twists and turns along the shoreline offer picture-perfect angles for sunsets. Experience riparian woodlands and open grassy areas where you may spot ospreys or songbirds. George Washington Memorial Pkwy, Alexandria
Silver Lake Regional Park
With a 23-acre lake fed by Little Bull Run Stream and four miles of multi-purpose trails, you’ll have no shortage of areas to catch the sunset at Silver Lake Regional Park. Set up shop to watch the beautiful sky in rolling meadows and pine forests covering 230 acres. 15800 Silver Lake Rd., Haymarket
The Winery at Bull Run
Extend your visit to The Winery at Bull Run by viewing the sunset stretching across the beautiful Virginia countryside. This vast open space provides sweeping views to round out your time at the winery. Outdoor lawn areas and the patio are ideal for experiencing picturesque sunsets. 15950 Lee Hwy, Centreville
Feature image of Mason Neck Park courtesy Virginia State Parks
