7 Best Winter Hiking Spots Near Alexandria

Alexandria, Va., might be recognized for its history and architecture, but it’s also one of the best places to live for the active and outdoorsy. If you enjoy hiking and exploring Northern Virginia’s great outdoors, then you’re in the right place. As the cold weather quickly approaches, we’ve taken a moment to compile our list of best hikes in and around Alexandria during winter. As a bonus, you won’t have to worry about mosquitos and other insects driving you mad. So dust off your hiking boots and get ready to hit the trail. 

Since most of Alexandria’s trails require a bit of a drive, we recommend you head to Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC to upgrade your ride. It’s always safer driving in the winter weather in a reliable vehicle, so why not treat yourself before your next hike? Koons has plenty of new and used cars to choose from. So grab your friends and family, pack plenty of snacks, water, and warm clothing, and explore all Northern Va. has to offer this winter.

Great Falls Park Overlooks and River Trail

Great Falls Park is a destination for visitors worldwide, who mostly come to view its cascading waterfalls and dramatic gorge. But there are plenty of outdoor activities for Great Falls as well, which makes the park an excellent winter hiking venue. One of the most challenging hikes at Great Falls is the Difficult Run, a five-mile trail that scrambles 3,000 feet over boulders and paths. This trail begins at the lower and less-visited access to the park, and you’ll end up at the main Great Falls Park area. 

Bull Run Occoquan Trail

The Bull Run Occoquan Trail boasts Northern Va.’s longest natural surface trail, and it’s just a short drive from Alexandria. You can access the path from multiple points between Fountainhead Regional Park and Bull Run Regional Park. In total, the trail is 17.4 miles between these two locations, with plenty of spots to rest and enjoy views of the Occoquan River. It’s also a great trail to bring your dog for a winter hike, as long as they’re tolerant of the cold. However, some river crossings can be problematic in winter, depending on snowfall and ice presence.

Mason Neck State Park

Mason Neck is an excellent location for bird watchers, where you can spot bald eagles and other species in winter. One of the park’s most popular trails is the Bay View Loop, which combines views of the bay with boardwalks, marsh, and woodlands at just one mile. The out-and-back hike to Kane’s Creek adds an additional two miles each way and has a bird hide overlooking the water. There are other trails from the Visitor’s Center to build your own hike length. You can also tack on the Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge for more exploration.

Raven Rocks on the Appalachian Trail

There’s nothing as classic as hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail. It’s certainly too cold in winter to attempt a through-hike, but you can tackle six miles or more on the Raven Rocks portion in Bluemont, Va. The rolling ridges can be pretty steep, so be sure you have the correct footwear if there’s snow or ice on the path. However, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge and the Shenandoah Mountains on this hike. 

Prince William Forest

Prince William Forest is part of the National Parks Service and comprises 37 miles of hiking and biking trails in a 15,000 acre protected area. The courses are best accessed during winter when there’s only been minimal or no snowfall. Quantico Creek and Falls feature on one of the shorter hikes, and you can add trails from the parking lot to make it a long journey. Weather dependent, there is a nine-mile scenic drive through the park that offers a bit of nature from the safety and comfort of your vehicle.

Overall Run Falls and Old Rag

Shenandoah National Park is further afield but an absolute must-visit for outdoor adventurers. At 200,000 acres, it’s a vast area to explore, complete with deer, birds, bears, and more. We recommend Overall Run Falls and Old Rag as excellent winter hiking options. Old Rag is perhaps the most popular hike in Shenandoah – and there’s good reason – the summit rewards you with incredible 360-degree views. Overall, Run Falls is the highest waterfall in the park, and the views from the top are breathtaking. Pack lunch and spend the day in Shenandoah exploring its numerous trails.

Washington and Old Dominion Regional Park

For those who’d prefer a straightforward walking path, the Washington and Old Dominion Regional Park (W&OD) has many access points across its 40-mile stretch, much of which is shady and protected. Some portions of this track are paved, while others are dirt or gravel. We recommend starting in Vienna and heading to Hunter Mille Road. You can even connect with Difficult Run in Great Falls on the W&OD. As a bonus, the bike trail is plowed after a snowfall. They might still leave icy and snowy patches, however, so be sure to look out for slippery sections and tread carefully.

Stay Warm and Stay Safe

We hope you found some hiking inspiration with this list. As with any hiking, safety is of the utmost importance. There are additional variables to consider when you hike in cold weather, and we want you to be well-prepared before heading into the woods. Ideally, don’t hike alone; groups of three or more are safest. If you must walk alone, let someone know where you’re going, how long you’ll be on the trail, and be sure to get in touch when you finish. Take all the necessary gear, extra food and water, and warm waterproof layers.

Did we miss your favorite Alexandria area hike for winter adventures? Keep in touch and let us know.

Head to the Trailhead in Your New Car

Be sure to visit your local Koons Woodbridge Buick GMC. Koons is the best place to source your new car in northern Va., with trustworthy and friendly staff ready to assist you. They’re highly committed to their customers and look forward to getting you set up in a new car before you hit the trail.

Image via Pixabay by Fotocitizen
Image via Pixabay by ZIPNON

Tags: Alexandria, Hiking, Winter Hiking
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