Fresh Air & Lake Views: DMV Hiking Spots

Spring is in full bloom across the DMV, and there’s no better time to get outdoors and soak in the fresh air, sunshine, and stunning natural beauty all around us. Whether you’re a local homeowner or just settling into the area, Northern Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland are full of scenic trails—many with peaceful lakes, wooded paths, and biking options—that make staying active and enjoying nature easy and enjoyable.

Here’s a round-up of some of our favorite hiking and walking trails near lakes, with something for every fitness level.

🌲 1. Lake Fairfax Park – Reston, VA

Location: 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr, Reston, VA
Website: Fairfax County Park Authority
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Biking Trail: ✅ Yes

Lake Fairfax Park is a local gem offering wide, shaded trails around the lake, picnic spots, and even a waterpark in summer. The trail network connects to the larger Fairfax Cross County Trail (CCT), perfect for long-distance biking and hiking. This park is family-friendly and ideal for a relaxing weekend walk or active bike ride.

🚶‍♀️ 2. Burke Lake Park – Fairfax Station, VA

Location: 7315 Ox Rd, Fairfax Station, VA
Website: Burke Lake Park
Difficulty: Easy
Biking Trail: ✅ Yes

This 4.7-mile flat trail circles Burke Lake, making it perfect for walkers, joggers, and cyclists alike. Enjoy beautiful lake views the whole way and stop for birdwatching or fishing. It’s one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Fairfax County.

🌳 3. Great Falls Park – McLean, VA

Location: 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA
Website: NPS Great Falls
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Biking Trail: 🚫 Not permitted on all trails (some are hiking-only)

This national park showcases the dramatic falls of the Potomac River. Try the Billy Goat Trail for a rock-scrambling adventure (MD side), or the River Trail on the Virginia side for cliffside views. Though not lake-centered, the riverside scenery is unforgettable.

🌅 4. Lake Needwood – Rock Creek Regional Park, MD

Location: 15700 Needwood Lake Cir, Derwood, MD
Website: Montgomery Parks
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Biking Trail: ✅ Yes (paved & natural surface)

A serene lake with rental boats, a paved walking trail, and access to the Rock Creek Trail, which stretches all the way to DC. Great for families, runners, or anyone looking to spend time by the water.

🚲 5. Capital Crescent Trail – DC to Bethesda, MD

Location: Trailhead at Georgetown Waterfront Park, DC
Website: Montgomery Parks
Difficulty: Easy
Biking Trail: ✅ Yes

This 11-mile paved trail follows an old rail line along the Potomac River and Canal, passing scenic spots like Fletcher’s Cove. It’s flat, shaded, and extremely popular with cyclists and joggers. While there’s no lake, it’s one of the most scenic waterside trails in the region.

🏞️ 6. Lake Accotink Park – Springfield, VA

Location: 7500 Accotink Park Rd, Springfield, VA
Website: Lake Accotink
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Biking Trail: ✅ Yes

This hidden treasure in Fairfax County features a 3.9-mile loop trail around Lake Accotink, with wooded views and wildlife sightings. Ideal for peaceful walks, short trail runs, or leisurely bike rides.

🌿 7. Theodore Roosevelt Island – Washington, DC

Location: George Washington Memorial Pkwy, Arlington, VA
Website: NPS Roosevelt Island
Difficulty: Easy
Biking Trail: 🚫 No bikes allowed on island trails

Escape the city without leaving it—Roosevelt Island offers boardwalk trails and forested paths with river views, tucked right between DC and Arlington. It’s a peaceful walk through nature with views of the Potomac.

🧭 Tips for Enjoying Spring Trails

• Bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray—especially in wooded areas.

   

• Many trails are shared-use—be mindful of cyclists and walkers.
• Always check for park alerts or closures before heading out.

💬 Ready to Explore the DMV?

Whether you’re selling your home, buying in a new area, or just enjoying everything Northern Virginia, DC, and Maryland have to offer—Jennifer Young Homes is here to help you feel at home in every season.

Looking for a home near your favorite park or trail?
Let us help you find the perfect place near the nature you love! 🏡🌳