The best running trails around Reston

Reston offers a vast network of trails for runners. On komoot, you'll find over 75 jogging routes, ranging from easy paved paths to more challenging natural surface trails. This includes 9 easy routes, 56 moderate routes, and 10 difficult routes, ensuring options for all fitness levels.

Reston is ideal for running due to its extensive network of over 55 miles of paved pathways and natural surface trails, maintained by the Reston Association. The community is designed with green spaces, including four man-made lakes (Lake Anne, Lake Thoreau, Lake Audubon, Lake Newport), stream valleys, and forests, providing diverse and scenic environments for your runs.

Yes, the Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail is a significant option, offering a 45-mile paved rail-trail that runs through Northern Virginia. Portions of the Cross County Trail also pass through Reston, providing opportunities for longer runs with varied surfaces.

For picturesque views, consider a run around Reston's lakes. A popular choice is a loop around Lake Anne, which offers beautiful waterside scenery. Many pathways run alongside Lake Thoreau, Lake Audubon, and Lake Newport, providing equally scenic options. The W&OD Trail also offers pleasant views as it winds through the landscape.

Absolutely. Reston's extensive network of paved pathways, including sections of the W&OD Trail and many routes around the lakes, are generally flat and well-maintained, making them excellent for families with strollers. The Lake Anne loop is an easy 3.0-mile path that is very suitable for families.

For a more adventurous run, the trails within Lake Fairfax Park offer a mix of twisty singletrack and flat paths. While Reston's terrain is generally characterized by gentle grades, these trails provide a more dynamic experience for those seeking varied surfaces and some elevation changes.

Reston's trails often pass by natural features and community highlights. You can enjoy the scenic views of the four man-made lakes (Lake Anne, Lake Thoreau, Lake Audubon, Lake Newport). The Heron Lake and Jubilee Plantation are also notable natural attractions. Lake Anne Plaza, with its local shops and restaurants, is a charming spot along the Lake Anne loop.

Many of Reston's multi-use trails are dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your canine companion along for a run. However, it's always best to check local regulations for specific trails or parks regarding leash requirements and waste disposal to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

The running routes in Reston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 9 reviews. Runners often praise the extensive network of well-maintained trails, the beautiful lake views, and the integration of green spaces that provide a refreshing escape within the community.

Yes, Reston offers several excellent loop options. A popular choice is a loop around Lake Anne, which is an easy 3.0-mile path. Many of the trails within Lake Fairfax Park also form loops, providing varied distances and terrain for your run.

Parking is generally available at various access points along Reston's trail network and at major parks. For instance, Lake Fairfax Park offers dedicated parking. For the W&OD Trail, there are several parking lots along its length in Reston. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or local park websites.

Reston has a well-developed public transport system, including bus routes and the Metro's Silver Line, which can provide access to various parts of the community. Many trails, including sections of the W&OD Trail and paths around the lakes, are accessible from different neighborhoods, making public transport a viable option for reaching certain trailheads.