South Run Upstream
Details
We always head downstream along South Run when we visit, so let's shake it up a bit this time with a hike upstream for a loop around beautiful Burke Lake!
http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/9/9/c/600_433758844.jpeg
The route: Starting from in front of the South Run RECenter, we’ll take the trail south, turn right (west) and walk upstream along South Run to Burke Lake, where we'll do a loop around the lake, with a short pit stop at the marina en route. Afterwards it's back downstream along South Run to our starting point.
The hike is 3 miles out & back from South Run Rec Center to Burke Lake, plus a 4.7-mile loop around Burke Lake, for a total of 7.7 miles of smiles. At a moderate pace we should finish in less than 3 hours, including time for a short pit stop along the way. The surface is mostly paved, with some dirt paths around Burke Lake.
Google map here: http://tinyurl.com/lqoxndr
How to get there:
• From I-66 (either direction), take Exit 55 A and follow signs for VA-286 / Fairfax County Parkway towards Springfield. Drive 10.2 miles and turn right on Reservation Drive. Follow Reservation Drive past the soccer and baseball fields to where it ends at the RECenter.
• From I-95 S, take exit 166B for VA-286 N / Fairfax County Parkway. Follow signs for VA-286 N / Fairfax County Parkway for 5.6 miles and turn left on Reservation Drive. Follow Reservation Drive past the soccer and baseball fields to where it ends at the RECenter.
Sorry, this is not a Metro-accessible hike.
What to bring: Water, comfy shoes and your furry friend if desired (leashes please). Bundle up! The layered look is fashionable, and it will be a brisk morning.
Weather: The forecast is sunny, a high of 35 degrees and breezy 13 mph winds. Updates here: http://tinyurl.com/666dab
Advisory: As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is permitted.
Administrative stuff: There are restrooms and drinking fountains at South Run RECenter and two restrooms en route in Burke Lake Park. There's also a Starbucks near the RECenter if you want to grab a hot coffee before the hike.
Notes:
• South Run RECenter, 7550 Reservation Drive, Springfield, VA 22153, 703-866-0566, http://tinyurl.com/88c2thq
• Starbucks, 7475 Huntsman Boulevard, Springfield, VA 22153