Scott's Run Nature Preserve
Explore 336 acres of woodlands with trails leading to a beautiful waterfall and Potomac River views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Scott's Run Nature Preserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 336 acres of woodlands with trails leading to a beautiful waterfall and Potomac River views.
"A nice park great for those looking for a gentle hike near the city. "
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or park at the construction site across the road. Avoid fire lanes to prevent tickets. :car:
🗺️ Trail Maps
No paper maps available. Download an offline map or use a trail app for navigation. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scott's Run Waterfall
Along the blue trail
A beautiful, tumbling waterfall that's a rewarding sight after a hike. Flowing nicely even in cooler months.
Riverfront Views
Along the yellow and blue trails
Enjoy scenic views of the Potomac River as you traverse the preserve's woodlands.
Wooded Trails
Various trails throughout the preserve
Explore diverse hiking paths through 336 acres of natural woodlands, perfect for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Trail Navigation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or park at the construction site across the road. Avoid fire lanes to prevent tickets. :car:
🗺️ Trail Maps
No paper maps available. Download an offline map or use a trail app for navigation. :iphone:
👟 Steep Sections
Some trails are steep. A walking stick is recommended, especially if you don't like grabbing branches. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly
A perfect trail for dogs and kids! Keep them leashed and enjoy the adventure.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or park at the construction site across the road. Avoid fire lanes to prevent tickets. :car:
🗺️ Trail Maps
No paper maps available. Download an offline map or use a trail app for navigation. :iphone:
👟 Steep Sections
Some trails are steep. A walking stick is recommended, especially if you don't like grabbing branches. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly
A perfect trail for dogs and kids! Keep them leashed and enjoy the adventure.
💧 Creek Crossings
Be prepared to cross creeks using stepping stones. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Scott's Run Nature Preserve is praised for its beautiful waterfall and scenic river views, offering a great hiking experience close to the city. While parking can be challenging and restrooms are limited, visitors appreciate the natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere.
"GPS took us to a development instead of the exact location. Busy place with limited parking. Arrived around 10:30am on a Sunday. There was no bathrooms available. Only 1 Big map of the area in a plastic window box near parking. No paper maps to take with you as you hike. Lots of people walking around. Had to cross 2 places with stepping stones to get across the creek. Waterfall was flowing nicely middle of November. Had to walk up and down a steep hill to see the Waterfall."
Janet Thomas
"This is a nice park that is great for those looking for a gentle hike near the city. I recommend starting at the west parking lot and taking the purple trail, turning north onto the yellow trail all the way to the river, then follow the blue trail back to the parking lot."
Jed Immanuel Lloren
"I’ve been here a few times now and it’s such a nice place to go on a hike. It’s between an easy and moderate hike with the elevation reaching about 400 ft where I usually go. Parking can be tricky sometimes because there are limited spots. Fortunately, there’s a construction site across the road where I noticed people parking. Despite the parking situation, I would recommend hiking here."
Ashley C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
GPS can sometimes lead to a nearby development, so double-check your route. The preserve is located in McLean, VA.
Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider parking at the construction site across the road. Parking in fire lanes will result in a ticket.
The purple trail, starting from the west parking lot and connecting to the yellow and blue trails, is recommended for a gentle hike.
Yes, Scott's Run Nature Preserve is a perfect trail for dogs!
Absolutely! It's a family-friendly trail with options for easy hikes, though some sections can be steep.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee mentioned for Scott's Run Nature Preserve, making it a great free outdoor activity.
Operating hours are not explicitly stated in the provided information, but it's generally advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No advance booking is typically required for this nature preserve, as it's a public park.
Based on recent visitor experiences, bathrooms may not be readily available. It's best to plan accordingly.
A large map is available in a plastic window box near the parking lot. However, no paper maps are provided to take with you.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the beautiful Scott's Run waterfall, which is a rewarding sight after a hike.
The hike to the waterfall is generally considered easy, though there are moderate routes available.
The elevation gain can reach about 400 feet in some areas, making some portions of the trail steep.
Yes, while there are easy options, some moderate and steeper trails exist, offering a good challenge for hikers.
The preserve is known for its wildlife viewing opportunities within its 336 acres of woodlands.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall is a prime spot for photography. The river views and wooded trails also offer beautiful scenic shots.
Yes, with its diverse woodlands, river access, and waterfall, it's an excellent location for nature photography.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check local regulations or signage at the park before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfall and expansive river views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Choose the purple or yellow trails for a gentler experience.
* Wear sturdy shoes as some sections can be steep.
* Keep an eye on children near water and steep inclines.
* Arrive early to secure parking and avoid the biggest crowds.
🐶 Dog Owners
The natural trails provide ample space for dogs to roam and enjoy the outdoors. It's a great place for an adventurous hike with your dog, offering scenic views and the chance to cool off near the water. Tips for dog owners:
* Keep your dog on a leash at all times to respect other visitors and wildlife.
* Bring plenty of water for both you and your dog, especially during warmer months.
* Be mindful of other hikers and ensure your dog is well-behaved.
* Clean up after your dog to keep the preserve beautiful for everyone.
Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers:
* Pack your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices.
* Utilize free parking options by arriving early or considering the nearby construction site.
* Focus on the natural beauty rather than paid attractions for a fulfilling visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
While some paths are easy, be prepared for steep sections, particularly on the way to the waterfall. Visitors often recommend a walking stick for added stability, especially if you're not comfortable grabbing onto branches or rocks.
It's important to note that paper maps are not provided, so downloading an offline map on your phone or using a reliable trail app is highly recommended for navigation.
The Iconic Waterfall
Reaching the waterfall typically involves navigating some of the preserve's steeper trails. While the hike can be considered easy overall, the inclines require a bit of effort.
Visitors often mention the need to walk up and down a steep hill to get the best views of the waterfall, so wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for the terrain. For the best experience, consider visiting during weekdays or earlier in the day to avoid larger crowds and potentially find easier parking.
Visitor Experience & Amenities
However, visitors should be aware of certain limitations. Parking can be a significant challenge, especially on weekends, leading some to park in fire lanes (which can result in tickets) or at a nearby construction site.
Despite these minor inconveniences, the overall sentiment from visitors is positive. The well-maintained trails, the beautiful waterfall, and the natural ambiance make it a highly recommended spot for a day out in nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit