Mason Neck 4.2-mile Stroll: Winter Water & Wetlands, Part 1

An easy 4.2 mile weekday walk in Mason Neck State Park to see what's living in the creeks and wetlands in winter. Trail is easy and flat; might be muddy following rain. Partial boardwalk and observation deck.

If we look closely, we might spot herons, hawks, or even bald eagles near Kane's Creek, or tundra swans that stop over in Belmont Bay for the winter-- from a distance, so bring binoculars. We'll walk through winter forest, alongside wetlands, and pause at a small beach where you can see the bay's outlet to the Potomac River.

Kane’s Creek and Mason Neck State Park is a conservation success story: a low-lying estuary region in Fairfax County that was rescued from proposed suburban development by Elizabeth Hartwell, a local resident who lobbied local, state, and federal officials throughout the 1960s to halt the development and preserve the habitat.

Look for Part 2: a second Winter Water & Wetlands walk on the other side of Belmont Bay in Occoquan National Wildlife Refuge.

Meet at 10:30 am at the parking lot of the Mason Neck State Park Picnic Area, Lorton, Va. Restrooms are available. Leisurely pace about 2-2.25 mph.

Map to meeting place: https://maps.app.goo.gl/H9sxob9yXpLuZpt59

AllTrails map of hiking trails:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/mason-neck-state-park-6dd1531?u=i&sh=fuqxr6

Level: Easy
Cost: $10 park fee or buy a $40 annual Virginia State Parks pass (works at Sky Meadow and Shenandoah River State Parks, too). Buy the annual pass online in advance at www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/annual-pass
Bring: Cash for the park entry fee or annual pass. Layers for winter weather. Water, poles (if needed), good walking shoes, and binoculars.
Cancellation Policy: Watch Comments for possible cancellation in case of rain or snow.