Cub Run Stream Valley Park
800+ acres of trails for running, biking, and walking, featuring wetlands, woods, and spring bluebells.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bluebells bloom, birds sing
Cub Run Stream Valley Park
Best Time
Bluebells bloom, birds sing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
800+ acres of trails for running, biking, and walking, featuring wetlands, woods, and spring bluebells.
"A gorgeous mix of wide, beautiful, smooth paved trails and narrower older trails, and unpaved trails."
👟 Wear Appropriate Shoes
Trails vary from paved to marshy; sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
💧 Be Prepared for Flooding
Some low-lying areas can flood, especially after rain. Check conditions before you go.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bluebell Trail
Various sections
Witness a breathtaking carpet of bluebells blanketing the stream banks in spring. A true natural spectacle!
Paved & Unpaved Trails
Throughout the park
Enjoy a mix of smooth paved paths and rustic unpaved trails winding through wetlands and woods.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the park
Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including turtles, hawks, and various bird species.
Historical Markers
Along trails
Discover remnants of local history, including pre-Civil War bridge abutments.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Seasonal Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Appropriate Shoes
Trails vary from paved to marshy; sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
💧 Be Prepared for Flooding
Some low-lying areas can flood, especially after rain. Check conditions before you go.
📸 Capture Nature's Beauty
Bring your camera for stunning bluebells, wildlife, and scenic views. 
☕ Coffee & Walk Combo
Grab coffee in Centreville and then enjoy a refreshing walk in the park.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Appropriate Shoes
Trails vary from paved to marshy; sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
💧 Be Prepared for Flooding
Some low-lying areas can flood, especially after rain. Check conditions before you go.
📸 Capture Nature's Beauty
Bring your camera for stunning bluebells, wildlife, and scenic views.
☕ Coffee & Walk Combo
Grab coffee in Centreville and then enjoy a refreshing walk in the park.
🌳 Explore Diverse Trails
Mix paved paths with unpaved routes for a varied and engaging hiking experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cub Run Stream Valley Park for its extensive and varied trail system, offering both paved paths and natural routes through beautiful wetlands and woods. The park is noted for its natural beauty, especially the spring bluebells and abundant wildlife, making it a peaceful escape. Some minor concerns include potential flooding in low-lying areas.
"Nice, extensive trails that lead to different communities. There are a couple of spots where it may flood (especially just East of the Cub Run stepping stone crossing). The walk along the marsh is nice, I wish the trail was just slightly more elevated by a few inches in this area."
Greg
"Walking, Running, and Biking lowlands paradise. There's a gorgeous mix of wide, beautiful, smooth paved trails, and narrower older trails, and unpaved trails. It all runs through low marshy country, a mix of wetlands woods. The birds are really loud on a spring morning, and the bluebells turn the entire side of the stream blue. There's plenty of weird interesting bugs - but not a ton of the biting ones despite the water, which is nice. Safe, pretty, and long, with loads of entries into really gorgeous neighborhoods if you get bored with nature and want to look at nice houses with lovely gardens."
Anne Trotter
"The trail is very clear of trash and conveniently paved over (at least the part I walked). It seemed pretty safe and there weren't a whole lot of people there, so it was a relaxing time. There's also a couple cool historical markers along the way, including one for some remaining pre civil war bridge abutments. Love the combination of nature and local history!"
Jack Salcedo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cub Run Stream Valley Park is accessible by car, with multiple entry points. It's located in Centreville, Virginia. While public transport options are limited directly to the park, you can find bus routes that get you close to the Centreville area, and then potentially take a short ride-share or walk.
Yes, there are parking areas available at various access points throughout the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The park features trails suitable for biking, and you can connect to it via local bike paths in surrounding neighborhoods.
The park is conveniently located near major roadways such as I-66 and Route 28, making it easily accessible for those driving from different parts of Northern Virginia.
The accessibility can vary by entrance. Many visitors find the main entrances off of Cub Run Road or near residential areas to be straightforward. It's always a good idea to check a map for the specific entrance closest to your desired trail section.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Cub Run Stream Valley Park is a public park and does not charge an entrance fee. You can enjoy its trails and natural beauty for free.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Fairfax County Park Authority website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
No advance booking or tickets are required to visit Cub Run Stream Valley Park, as it is a free public park.
Generally, all trails and public areas are open to everyone. However, always be mindful of any posted signs regarding restricted areas or private property adjacent to the park.
You can tailor your visit to your schedule. A short walk can be enjoyed in an hour, while exploring more extensive trails might take several hours. The park offers flexibility for both quick outings and longer excursions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers a diverse trail system, including wide, paved paths perfect for biking and leisurely strolls, as well as narrower, unpaved, and natural trails that wind through wetlands and wooded areas.
Yes, it's an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially in the spring when the birds are very active and vocal. You might spot various species, including hawks.
While the primary focus is on natural trails, there are simple playground facilities available, and the park's open spaces are suitable for picnics.
Visitors often report seeing turtles, various bird species like hawks and red-shouldered hawks, and a variety of interesting insects.
Swimming is generally not recommended due to the marshy conditions and potential for flooding. Fishing regulations may apply, so it's best to check with local authorities if you plan to fish.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers numerous picturesque spots, especially along the bluebell trail in spring, the bridges, and areas with diverse flora and fauna. The mix of paved and natural trails provides varied backdrops.
Drone photography is possible, and some users have captured aerial shots of the park's landscape, including the stream and bridges. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage in parks.
The vibrant bluebells in spring, the diverse birdlife, the winding streams, and the lush greenery create fantastic photographic opportunities throughout the year.
Yes, the park features historical markers and remnants of pre-Civil War bridge abutments, which can add a unique historical element to your photographs.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, creating softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel. Spring mornings are particularly magical with the bluebells and bird activity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Families can enjoy activities like bike rides, exploring the bluebell trails in spring, and simply splashing around in the shallow parts of the stream. The abundance of nature provides endless opportunities for discovery, from spotting turtles to listening to bird calls. It's a great place for a relaxed family outing or a more active adventure.
🏃♀️ Runners and Cyclists
Beyond the paved routes, the park also features unpaved and natural trails that add an element of challenge and variety to your workout. These can be great for trail running or mountain biking, allowing you to experience different terrains. The extensive network ensures you can plan routes of varying lengths and difficulties.
🚶 Nature Walkers and Birdwatchers
+1Spring is a particularly rewarding time, with the vibrant bluebells and active bird populations. Even outside of this season, the park offers a tranquil environment to connect with nature, observe wildlife like turtles, and enjoy the changing landscapes. It's an ideal destination for a relaxing day out, offering both natural beauty and a sense of calm.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Cub Run Stream Valley Park
The terrain varies significantly, from open wetlands to dense woodlands. Some sections, particularly those near the stream, can become marshy and may flood after heavy rainfall, so it's wise to be prepared for varied conditions. The park's layout allows for exploration of different ecosystems, from the vibrant marshlands to the serene wooded areas, making each visit a unique experience.
Whether you're looking for a vigorous bike ride, a peaceful nature walk, or a challenging trail run, Cub Run Stream Valley Park has something to offer. The variety ensures that visitors can tailor their experience to their fitness level and desired level of engagement with nature. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as conditions can change along the different trail types.
Wildlife and Seasonal Beauty
Visitors frequently report sightings of various wildlife, including Eastern box turtles and different types of hawks, such as Cooper's hawks and red-shouldered hawks. The park's wetlands and wooded areas provide a rich habitat for these creatures, making it a rewarding destination for nature observation and photography.
+2Beyond the spring blooms, the park offers year-round natural beauty. The mix of wetlands and forests supports a diverse range of insects and plant life. Even outside of peak seasons, the tranquil atmosphere and the sounds of nature provide a refreshing escape. Keep an eye out for historical markers, including remnants of pre-Civil War bridge abutments, adding a layer of local history to your nature exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit