Health & Wellness: Nature walks
By Rachel Martin
While the past couple of weeks have brought their fair share of unpredictable weather, the calendar officially says it’s spring. That means warmer days, a gentle breeze, green grass, and the beautiful return of life – in both people and plants.
It’s the perfect time to step outside and enjoy everything Annandale has to offer for your health and well-being.
Related story: Introducing a new column: Health & Wellness
If you’re anything like me, you might’ve lived here for years without realizing how many opportunities there are to escape into nature, without leaving the neighborhood. This area can feel busy, full of traffic, noise, and the constant go-go-go energy that’s all too familiar to folks in the D.C. metro area.
We don’t have to go far to find peace and quiet. Right here in our own backyard are hidden trails and green spaces that offer a breath of fresh air and a chance to reset. And ever since I added a furry friend, Lego, to my life, I’ve made exploring these places part of my daily routine.
Here are four local spots that make you feel like you’re 30 miles outside the city. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, fresh air, or a deeper connection with nature, check out these places for a walk under three miles:
Whenever I have friends or family visiting from out of town, Green Spring Gardens, at 4603 Green Spring Road in Lincolnia, is one of my top suggestions.
Green Spring Gardens is beautifully maintained by dedicated volunteers and staff, making it a tranquil place to walk and enjoy nature’s beauty.
What you’ll find here:
- A paved brick path around an open green space
- A wooded stream valley with two peaceful ponds
- Over 20 garden plots filled with flowers, trees, and plants
- Park benches perfect for resting or reflecting
- Friendly faces and a welcoming atmosphere
Good to know:
- Easy for seniors to navigate (especially the upper section)
- Dog-friendly (on-leash)
- Free parking
- Donations appreciated
- An on-site plant and gardening shop
- National Historic Site designation
- Gardening classes and workshops are offered
Dora Kelley Nature Park
Tucked away just a short drive from Annandale is a hidden gem for nature lovers: the Dora Kelly Nature Trail, at 5750 Sanger Ave., Alexandria, and the Holmes Run Stream Valley Trail.
These two scenic paths run parallel to each other, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Dora Kelly Nature Park has a one-mile unpaved path that winds through a diverse forest filled with towering trees, native plants, and vibrant wildlife.
Numbered signposts along the way highlight natural features of the park, making it both a relaxing and educational experience. On my early morning walks, I spotted white-tailed deer and heard the songs of red-bellied woodpeckers, bluejays, cardinals, and Carolina wrens — a sweet reminder of my college days studying ornithology.
This unpaved path is perfect for trail runners, dog walkers, or anyone looking to mix up their usual walking route. While it’s short in distance, the winding turns and lush scenery make it feel like a true woodland adventure.
Looking for a bit more distance? A nearby section of the Holmes Run Stream Valley Trail is a paved 2.1-mile path rated as easy. It’s ideal for a longer stroll or bike ride. You’ll pass multiple babbling brooks, a peaceful pond, and even stumble upon small rocky beaches just off the trail where you can dip your feet or simply enjoy the sound of running water.
What you’ll find here:
- Paved and unpaved trails run side by side
- Babbling brooks, a pond, and peaceful forest views
- Trail intersections at Glen Hills Park and Holmes Run Trail
- Rocky beaches perfect for a quiet pause
- Informational signs about the natural landscape
Good to know:
- Free brochures and restrooms are available at the Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center
- Dog-friendly (leashes required)
- Free parking
- An ideal spot for birdwatching and quiet reflection
Hidden Oaks Nature Center
If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot with quiet, shaded trails and plenty of space to explore, the Hidden Oaks Nature Center at 7701 Royce St., Annandale, is a local favorite.
Spanning 52 acres, this park is a perfect destination for dog walkers, families with kids, or anyone craving a little time in nature without leaving town.
More than half of the park is shaded, making it a go-to summer spot. The trails are short, well-maintained, and easy to follow. You’ll find charming wooden bridges, tree-lined paths, and even a store that sells homemade crafts. The unpaved trails wind through a peaceful landscape, offering both relaxation and opportunities for learning.
One highlight is the Old Oak Trail, a third-of-a-mile loop with gentle inclines and 10 interactive trail posts. Each sign encourages visitors to identify animal tracks, and QR codes offer more information about native wildlife and their habitats. It’s a great way to turn a simple walk into an interactive experience.
What you’ll find here:
- Nature trails (unpaved mulch and dirt paths)
- Educational exhibits and animal displays at the Hidden Oaks Nature Center
- Seasonal “discovery bags” and kid-friendly trail activities
- A blue-blazed trail loop with a creek crossing and a steeper incline
- Tennis courts, baseball fields, and a shaded playground at the adjacent Annandale Community Park
- Picnic areas perfect for gatherings or quiet breaks
Good to know:
- Many events, classes, and exhibits at the nature center
- Dog-friendly (on-leash)
- Free parking available, multiple parking lots
- The nature center was renovated and expanded in 2022
- A store at the nature center
The Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail
No article on local trails would be complete without highlighting the incredible Cross County Trail system. Spanning over 40 miles, this trail connects the entire county of Fairfax, weaving through parks, neighborhoods, and nature preserves.
The trail can be accessed from the parking lots at Wakefield Park and the Audrey Moore Rec Center, at 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale.
While Wakefield Park is surrounded by bumper-to-bumper traffic, the Cross County Trail offers the feeling of being miles away from it all.
This extensive trail system has both paved and unpaved sections, making it ideal for walking, running, and biking. It’s also highly accessible, with multiple points of entry for pedestrians and cyclists. Each section of the trail has detailed maps available online or through the Fairfax County Park Authority, making it easy to plan your next outing.
I often recommend this trail to friends and clients because of how versatile and welcoming it is. Whether you’re looking for a short, peaceful walk or a longer, more adventurous outing, the Cross County Trail delivers. And thanks to its popularity, it tends to feel safer than some more secluded paths – there’s almost always someone out enjoying it.
What you’ll find:
- Over 40 miles of connected trail across Fairfax County
- Paved and unpaved sections for walking, running, and biking
- Accessible entry points across the county
- Maps available online
- A sense of escape without going far from home
Good to know:
- Connects to Lake Accotink Park, Occoquan Regional Park, and Great Falls National Park
- Connects to the W&OD trail and Reston trails
- Both the Franconia Springfield and Vienna Metro stations are accessible from side trail connections
- Drinking water, restrooms, and food are available at Wakefield Park, Occoquan Regional Park, Lake Accotink Park, and Oak Marr Park
