Best Hiking Trails Around Burke To See The Fall Colors

Fall is in full force across most of the country, with all but the Gulf Coast states enjoying trees adorned with the reds, oranges and yellows that are hallmarks of autumn.

Throughout the next several days, trees across the county will continue to change colors as they enter their pre-peak or peak phases, offering spectacular fall views to anyone willing and able to get outside and take a look.

Whether you're social distancing by choice or because of a local mandate, one thing that can still be safely enjoyed is the great outdoors, and research shows it has more to offer than just stunning seasonal views.

One study by public health researchers Michael Jerrett and Matilda van den Bosch found that exposure to nature — including water and green spaces — can help reduce inflammation, chronic stress and symptoms of depression.

Walking or hiking is also a simple way to increase the heart rate and add some cardio to your routine, especially if you've gotten a little too friendly with your sofa during the pandemic.

Hiking destinations are abundant in the greater Burke area. Make sure to maintain social distance when you are checking out these fall destinations:

• Fountainhead Regional Park: 10875 Hampton Road, Fairfax Station, VA 22039
• Burke Lake Park: 7315 Ox Rd, Fairfax Station, VA 22039
• South Run Park: 7550 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153
• Pohick Stream Valley Trail: Pohick Road to Fairfax County Parkway
• Lake Accotink Trail: 7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield, VA 22150
• Accotink Stream Valley Trail: Between Lake Accotink Park dam and Fairfax County Parkway
• Bull Run Occoquan Trail: 10875 Hampton Road, Fairfax Station, VA 22039
• Webb Nature Sanctuary: 12829 Chestnut Street, Clifton, VA 20124

SmokyMountains.com offers a handy fall leaf map that helps residents know when fall colors are peaking in their county. To use the map, simply slide the scale to the right to see when leaves will peak in your state. Zero in on your county, and you'll be able to decide when is the best time to take that autumnal hike.

Click here to learn more about leaf peeping and fall activities.