Virginia's landscape lends itself to some pretty spectacular trails. Winding through mountains, valleys, and even the coastline, these trails aren't hard to come by, thanks to our extensive park system. And fortunately, there are plenty of easy-to-access hikes where you won't have to break too much of a sweat. In fact, one of the most beloved trails in the state is just 2 miles total and leads hikers to a beautiful waterfall and wooded forests. Here's more on Scott's Run Nature Hike, an easy waterfall hike in Virginia with plenty of scenery:
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve is a beautiful piece of land that offers a refreshing escape from the nearby bustle of Washington DC.
Just next door to Great Falls National Park, the preserve offers an equally beautiful landscape without the crowds or entrance fee.
The area is made up of several wooded hiking trails which feature the scenic Potomac River. So hikers can choose how long they wish to remain on the trail and modify accordingly.
One of the most scenic ways to experience Scott’s Run is a quick 2.2 mile jaunt which follows a loop.
Along the way, you'll witness plenty of rare plants and, during warm months, gorgeous wildflowers.
After you begin the trail, you'll want to cross over Scott's Run.
The turn towards the concrete crossing posts will be in approximately .3 miles. There’s a possibility of continuing straight (and not crossing the run), but this is a much more difficult path which leads straight to the falls.
Now as you continue on, keep your eyes out for the Burling House Ruins as you head towards the falls.
After having crossed the run, the ruins will be visible after an uphill walk of approximately .1 mile. At this point, you’ll want to make a left turn downhill where Scott’s run meets the river at the falls.
Then you’ll follow the trail along the river bank, which eventually leads to a perfect picnic spot.
As you start along the river bank trail, you’ll pass two other small trails that both lead uphill to the Burling House Ruins in case you’d like to examine them closer. The picnic spot you’ll reach is a point that jetties out to the river about 60 feet, offering a beautiful and expansive view of the Potomac.
Follow the trail that will lead you uphill between two ridges. You’ll encounter several trail junctions for the remainder of the hike.
Of course, there’s no wrong turn to take at any of these junctions (they’ll lead to unique points along the preserve) but in order to complete the loop, you’ll want to follow this specific route.
Even if you're not up for the traditional hiking experience, a trip to Scott's Run will be a memorable one.
No matter the season, there will be plenty of natural beauty to marvel at, from the frozen falls of winter to the gorgeous blossoms of spring. What's not to love about this easy waterfall hike in Virginia?
Scott's Run Nature Preserve can be found at 7400 Georgetown Pike, McLean VA 22102. Have you completed this beautiful and easy waterfall hike in Virginia? Be sure to share your experience there with us!
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