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Burke Lake


Highlights:

Gentle trail along the perimeter of Burke Lake
Near:Fairfax Station, VA
Scenery:
Distance:4.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:300 ft
Hike Time:2 hours
Difficulty:Easy
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Loop


Summary:  This is a flat, woodland trail following the jagged contours of 218 acre Burke Lake. The hike is a clockwise circuit, at first paralleling the miniature railroad, then circling to the far side of the lake to skirt the edge of the campground and an orienteering course. A natural area harbors a variety of wildlife including beavers, red fox, deer and muskrats. Vesper Island, visivle for the lake edge, is a state waterfoul refuge.
Although often crowded in summer and warm weekends, this is a delightful walk at any time of year. The lake is a wintering spot for numerous species of waterfowl, spring brings an array of wildflowers, and fall is a riot of color.

Trailhead: I-495 to I-66; I-66 west to VA 123; VA 123 south about 9 mi to park entrance on left, just beyond golf course. Follow signs to marina and park in lot. (An entrance fee, $6, is charged seasonally for non-residents of Fairfax County) (Lat:38.76096 Lon:-77.30161)
Trail Guides for Burke Lake:
Circuit Hikes in VA WVA MD and PA
by Potomac Appalachain Trail Club (PATC)

Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes,
Ranger Contact: VA parks and recreation 703 323 6601
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joe Cross, who has posted  56 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Page 2 of 2   Submit your own review
Reviewed by Tom on 4/9/2003
Many years ago, I set off on the Burke Lake Trail with my two children in a double stoller. Four and a half miles and three hours later, we had completed the trail! I still have geat memories of it, it was beautiful (springtime), and it was an unplanned adventure with my children that I will never forget. I do recommend that you stick to hiking, pushing a stroller was way too much work!


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Virginia Hiking, Virginia Trails, Virginia Hikes, Fairfax County Hiking, Fairfax County Trails, Fairfax County Hikes

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