Beautiful Fall Hikes in Prince William County

Fall is upon us and with that comes cool brisk mornings, pumpkin spice everything and the changing of the leaves. According to the Virginia Department of Forestry fall colors generally peak sometime between October 10 and October 31; however, these dates can vary from year to year, based on factors such as temperature and rainfall.

We have some great trails where you can take a stroll and catch the fall foliage. Below are a few we think you’ll enjoy.

Neabsco Creek Boardwalk

The Neabsco Creek Boardwalk in Woodbridge is a great place to catch the changing of the leaves. Here you can experience the beautiful views along the scenic ¾ mile boardwalk. Part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, the boardwalk connects trails and historic sites throughout Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C.  While you’re there you might also see some bald eagles, ospreys, turtles and deer so be on the lookout. The Neabsco Creek Boardwalk is wheelchair accessible, stroller and dog-friendly (leashed), and there are observation decks (via steps) for a better view of your surroundings including Occoquan Bay in the distance.

Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park

Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park is a 140-acre historic site in western Prince William County. You can visit this historic and natural treasure at the corner of Iron Bridge Unit Avenue and Tenth Alabama Way in Bristow, Virginia, just off Bristow Road.

This peaceful landscape features more than 2.7 miles of walking and equestrian trails. The trail is a mixture of gravel, grass and wooden walkways with historic markers along the way. The trail is kids, dog and horse friendly - but be mindful that after rainfall there can be pooling of waters in various areas along the trail. Wildlife abounds in the fields, woods, and ponds. Click here for a map of the park’s trails.

The parks and trails are open every day from sunrise to sunset free of charge. Guided tours are offered at 11am, 1 pm and 3 pm on the second and fourth weekend of the month from May through October. Special group tours can be arranged by calling (703) 366-3049. Please note there are no restroom, concessions or camping facilities on site.

James Long Regional Park

James Long Park in Haymarket has trails that feature hills, woods and views of Catharpin Creek. With over four miles of wooded, natural surface trails throughout the park you’re sure to see some beautiful views. The trail is ideal for hikers, bikers and equestrians. The longest trail is the Long Park Nature Loop which is about 2.4 miles long and takes an average of 49 minutes to hike.

Lake Ridge Park

Located directly on the Occoquan Reservoir in Woodbridge, Lake Ridge Park is a 74-acre park that maintains unencumbered public access to the Occoquan Water Trail with breathtaking views. 

According to frequent hikers, the best place at Lake Ridge Park to hike is the Occoquan River Paddle Route. The trail is 4.1 miles long and take an average of 1 hour and 39 minutes to hike. The longest trail is East end Trail: Cotton Mill to Lake Ridge Marina. The trail is estimated to be 5.5 miles long and take on average just about 2 hours to hike.

Locust Shade Park

Located next to the Marine Corps Heritage Museum in Triangle, Virginia, Locust Shade Park is minutes from I-95. Locust Shade Park offer scenic beauty, tranquil water and picturesque trails.

According to users on AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Locust Shade Park is John Palmer Trail which has a 4.6 star rating from 163 reviews. The trail is 2.1 miles long with an elevation gain of 223 ft and takes an average of 50 minutes to hike.

While you’re out there, you should also plan to check out our new mountain bike skills trail. The trail officially opened last winter thanks to community partners, the Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts (MORE), whose volunteers logged over 1,000 hours working to clear deadfall, mark, dig and build walkways and trails. The trail has features for both beginner and advanced riders.

We have many more trails for you to discover and you can learn more about them here on our interactive trail map.

If you’re out on a hike at any of our trails and capture some of the beautiful fall colors, we encourage you to share your photos with us on social media by tagging @PWCparks or by using the hashtag #PWCparks.