Beautiful Fall Hikes in Prince William County
It's time to get out those hiking shoes and start planning your fall hiking adventures at one of our many parks and trails. November 17 is National Take a Hike Day—the perfect time to get outside, get some steps in and explore! The beautiful colors of fall have arrived, but there's really never a bad time to go for a hike. Plus, there are so many health benefits to hiking, both physical and mental—from building stronger muscles and bones, to improving your sense of balance. Being in nature can also boost your mood. Spending quality time in the great outdoors reduces stress, calms anxiety and can lead to a lower risk of depression, according to a study done by researchers at Stanford University.
We have so many great trails in Prince William County where you can take a stroll and enjoy a beautiful fall day outside. Below are a few we think you’ll enjoy.
James S. 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.
Want to do a family hike? Register for our family fall hike on Saturday, November 2 from 10:30 am to noon. Join a naturalist for a guided hike throughout James Long Park and learn about the unique ecosystems of the forest and stream, as well as the plants and animals that live there. This program is designed for children ages 6-10 with a parent or guardian. Register here.
Neabsco Regional Park & Neabsco Creek Boardwalk
Neabsco Regional Park and the Neabsco Creek Boardwalk in Woodbridge are great places to see some beautiful fall foliage. 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 restrooms, concessions or camping facilities on site.
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.
A popular trail is the Lake Ridge Trail, a .8 mile out-and-back trail. The trail is generally considered an "easy" hike taking an average of 19 mins to complete.
If you're looking for a longer hike, check out the East End Trail, a 5.5 mile out-and-back trail. The trail is considered a moderately challenging route, and takes an average of 2 hours to complete. This trail is great for hiking, running, and walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
Locust Shade Park
Located next to the Marine Corps Heritage Museum in Triangle, Virginia, Locust Shade Park is minutes from I-95 and offers scenic beauty, tranquil water and picturesque trails.
According to users on AllTrails.com, the most popular 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.
Looking for more? Download our PWC RecMapper app where you can view photos and information on all of our parks, trails, facilities and historic properties. The app allows you to view amenities by map or list; filter and search what’s important to you; or get directions and map out your route.
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.
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