Mercer Lake with Burke Lake Option (Rating: B or C)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I Accept" to be permitted on the hike.

6.8 mile Mercer Lake hike; with Burke Lake option 4.7 additional miles. Elevation is essentially zero.

Description: This gem of a hike seems to be a well-kept secret! This lovely lake is nestled in a residential area between South Run Recreation center and Burke Lake.
Though there are many entrances to Mercer Lake, we will start our hike from **Burke Lake Volley Ball-Picnic area parking lot.
**Most of the Mercer lake trail is paved asphalt, with some sections of gravel. There are a lot of wooded views with a short stretch with lake views.
There is the option of extending the Mercer Lake hike to include a loop around Burke Lake for anyone feeling up for the challenge! We will leave promptly at 9:30 am.

Fee: Access to Burke Lake is FREE to Fairfax County residents and to many affiliated local cities. On weekdays there is no charge except for a few holidays during the warmer months.
From April-October there is a $12 fee for out-of-county residents on weekends and a few holidays.

Restrooms: there are facilities at the Burke Lake Volley Ball Parking Lot
Pace: pace is about 2.5-2.7mph while moving.

Bring: adequate water/hydration, also snack/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas, tree roots.

Dogs: Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy.

Weather: weather in this location is HERE.

Meetup Location: When entering Burke Lake at, make your first right after the Information center and travel down to the Volley Ball/Picnic area parking lot.
Address: 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station 22039
**Location: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/burke-lake-park-location**
GPS: 38.760534, -77.305126