The best walks and hikes around Reston
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Hiking around Reston is characterized by an extensive network of well-maintained trails that connect parks, residential areas, and several man-made lakes. The landscape features over 1,300 acres of open space, including woodlands, four lakes, and numerous stream valleys. This planned community integrates green spaces, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. The region's trails offer predominantly gentle gradients, with paths often following lake shorelines and wooded areas.
Best hiking trails around Reston
- The most popular hiking route is Lake Fairfax Park loop — Reston, a 9.5 miles (15.3 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 58 minutes to complete. This route circles the park's 18-acre lake through a mix of wooded and open areas.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Lake Anne loop — Reston, an easy 1.6 miles (2.6 km) path. This short walk offers pleasant water views along the shoreline of one of the community's central lakes.
- Local hikers also love the Runnymede Park loop — Herndon, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail leading through local parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 36 minutes.
- Hiking around Reston is defined by lakeside paths, paved multi-use trails, and quiet woodland routes. The extensive Reston Association trails network provides options for all ability levels, from short family walks to longer routes suitable for trail running.
- The routes in Reston are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 1,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Reston's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(3)
27
hikers
4.57km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
6.66km
01:42
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
3.56km
00:56
20m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.86km
01:01
30m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
10.9km
02:52
100m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This park features trails that follow Difficult Run, a stream that flows into the Potomac River near Great Falls Park. You can enjoy the peaceful woods, the soothing sound of the stream, and often, clear water.
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This section is great for mountain biking at an entry. An intermediate level mine. Your speed as the trail is shared with hikers and sometimes horseback riding
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Bridge steps are tall for a bike unless you know how to climb in motion.
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Steep entrance, watch out for inbound hiker/bikers.
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stay on the east side of the river. an old West section is now closed
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Great spot for a short break during mountain bike or hiking trips during spring and summer. it gives full access to the river bank
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archery program effective from September to February most of the years
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails in Reston suitable for families with children?
Yes, Reston is very family-friendly. The area features many gentle, well-maintained paths. For a straightforward walk that's also suitable for strollers, the paved Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail is an excellent choice. Another great option is the Herndon Town Hall loop from Reston Town Center, which is an easy walk through the town and local parks.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Reston?
Most trails in and around Reston are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Parks like Lake Fairfax and the extensive Reston Association trail network welcome canine companions. For a particularly good experience with your dog, the trails at Seneca Regional Park are highly regarded by local dog owners.
Are there any hikes with lake or water views?
Absolutely. Reston is known for its man-made lakes, and many trails offer scenic water views. Besides the popular Lake Anne, you can find lovely paths along Lake Thoreau, Lake Audubon, and Lake Newport. These shoreline trails are perfect for a peaceful walk with beautiful scenery.
What are some good circular hikes in the area?
The region has numerous loop trails, so you can easily end your hike where you started. While many of the lakeside paths are loops, for a longer outing you could try the Herndon Town Hall loop from Wiehle–Reston East. It's a moderately challenging route that connects different parts of the local trail system.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Reston?
While Reston's immediate landscape is gentle, you can find spectacular waterfalls with a short drive to Great Falls Park. This popular park features the Potomac River crashing through Mather Gorge. It offers 15 miles of hiking trails with dramatic views of the falls and is a must-see for anyone in the area.
What are the trails like? Are they paved or natural surfaces?
Reston offers a mix of both. The 45-mile Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail is fully paved, making it ideal for walking, running, and cycling in all weather. Most other trails, like those in Lake Fairfax Park and the Walker Nature Center, are natural surface paths that wind through woodlands and along streams.
How many hiking trails are there around Reston?
There are over 90 distinct hiking routes to explore in and around Reston. The area is defined by its 55-mile Reston Association trail network, which connects neighborhoods, parks, and lakes, offering a wide variety of options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Reston?
The trails around Reston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the serene lakeside scenery, and the accessibility of the extensive trail network that is woven throughout the community.
Is it possible to reach the hiking trails using public transport?
Yes, many trails are accessible via public transport. The Wiehle–Reston East Metro station on the Silver Line is a major hub. From there, you can easily access the W&OD Trail and connect to the wider Reston Association trail network to reach various parks and lakes.
Where can I park to go hiking in Reston?
Dedicated parking is available at major parks. Lake Fairfax Park has large lots near its main entrance and various trailheads. You can also find parking at the Walker Nature Center and near access points for the W&OD Trail, such as in Reston Town Center or near the Wiehle–Reston East Metro station.
Are there any good trails for trail running?
Reston is an excellent place for trail running. The mix of paved and natural surface trails provides great variety. The relatively flat W&OD Trail is perfect for long, steady runs, while the paths in Lake Fairfax Park offer more varied terrain with gentle inclines through the woods.
What is the best time of year to hike in Reston?
Hiking in Reston is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly beautiful. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage, especially around the lakes and in the wooded areas. Summer can be hot and humid, so early morning hikes are recommended.
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