When you’ve been cooped up inside for an extended period of time, you’re bound to hear the call of the great outdoors sooner or later. That call is louder than ever and relentless for the residents of Alexandria, Virginia. Their charming community has more to offer than historical districts and cobblestone streets. The natural landscape in and around the city provides various ways of escaping the stress accumulated over the past year, along with attractions for thrill-seekers or outdoor enthusiasts.
Located across the Potomac River from Washington D.C., the city of Alexandria, VA is an ideal place for outdoor recreation and adventures, especially for those that lead an active lifestyle. The picturesque views surround this historical treasure of a city with rivers, forests, and an abundance of parks for every outdoor activity possible. As one of the most walkable cities in the country, Alexandria, VA will get your adrenaline going through hikes and biking trails that traverse George Washington’s Mount Vernon and several Civil War sites. If you aren’t yet a resident, you can contact the local real estate agents in Alexandria VA, and start browsing for the perfect home. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to explore the best outdoor activities available in and around the city.
Explore the Local Trails
For Alexandria’s residents and those who visit this charming historical town, the local trails are a great way to explore the mysterious great outdoors of Alexandria, VA. The most amazing things about these trails are the variety of options through which they can be explored. Jogging might be considered the healthiest option. It’s just you and the trail, some peace and quiet to start your day off or end it only with the sound of your feet hitting the pavement and the sounds of birds chirping away. Biking is another favorite for Alexandria’s residents, and the Eisenhower Avenue Trail connects with the Eisenhower Train Station through the regional park.
Another astounding scenic option is the Mount Vernon Trail, as it runs alongside the Potomac River. You can see the city like that and get some needed cardio after a long day’s work depending on how much you can endure. And remember, these trails are not only available to joggers and bikers but rollerskates, rollerblades, and other outdoor recreation activities.
Start Sailing the Potomac River
If you’re by the Potomac River, you could also go for a quick sailing lesson. Till you get to the boating launch area, you can hop on a boat tour on the Potomac. Residents love spending as much free time as possible on the water. With its location on the river’s banks, Alexandria, VA, has plenty of options available to keep the residents satisfied. Many visit this beautiful city in the summer days only to get on one of those boat tours, so why should you limit your experiences to just watching the river from the banks when you could be more adventurous.
Once you’ve had your fair share of this boating experience, you can go the extra mile and find the Daingerfield Island for the sailing we mentioned earlier. The Washington Sailing Marina offers, aside from boat rentals, lessons for kayaks, canoes, and sailboats, so get ready to spread your sails. For those with additional interest, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) Yoga won’t only help you find your inner balance but your physical one as well.
Discover the Great Outdoors within the City
Being home to an incredible number of parks, Alexandria, VA, doesn’t require you to leave the city’s limits to find some exciting outdoor activities. The natural parks, trail networks, and expansive preservation areas available within the city’s limits keep the residents active, healthy, and willing to explore even more. That thirst for exploration can be triggered by the Dora Kelley Nature Park’s 50 - acre of wildlife preserve. Besides the many scenic views, the prime birding that can be enjoyed along the trails excite any bird and nature enthusiast. One of the best spots in the area for native flora and fauna is the Winkler Botanical Preserve, allowing visitors to have a peaceful walk on the trails that go by small waterfalls and even a pond.
Waterfront parks are another point of interest for those who enjoy the great outdoors in Alexandria, VA. The Founders Park gives ample green space where residents can enjoy an unfenced dog run, a lot of green area for various activities, one of which can easily be volleyball as there is also a court nearby. In case the volleyball court is occupied, alternatives can be easily found. The Jones Point Park is home to the last riverine lighthouse in the state of Virginia and has one of the original boundary stones of D.C., so it definitely shouldn’t be missed. Fishing, jogging, biking, and basketball are all activities that can be enjoyed in the area freely.
Great Falls Park
We couldn’t make up a list of the great outdoors of Alexandria, VA, without mentioning the Great Falls Park. While it isn’t within the city’s limits, the park is something not to be missed as it doesn’t only hold extraordinary natural splendor but also gives way to one of the nation’s first canals. Getting there can be an adventure on its own, but once you’re there, you can hike Mather George’s dramatic cliff-tops and explore the area from 7 a.m. till dawn every day. The overlooks are easily accessible from the visitor center and the parking lot, with only 5 to 10 minute walks for each of the three falls.
Biking is always a viable choice if you want a more active and thrilling option to explore the area. The trails are exciting but accessible for beginners as well. Families with small children or anyone who wants to enjoy the views while also learning more about the history of the place can book guided tours from the visitors center. However, the ultimate thrill-giving experience, ideal for adrenaline junkies, is kayaking the rapids during your visit or just take a raft. Just be sure to hold on tight, and paddle like your life depends on it because it just might. No worries, though. It’s all fun and games. But make sure to stay focused and to be safe.
Conclusion
Find your thrill as you explore the great outdoors of Alexandra, VA. There’s nothing better than going outside and breathing in that fresh air. The best things about it are that it’s free and social distancing is a given because of the open space and wide-area at your disposal. Make sure to consider the weather, grab something warm enough to fight off the cold but still allow you to move freely. Depending on the activity of choice, flexibility might be required.
Be safe, go out in nature, and enjoy the freedom that comes with every outdoor experience. Breath in that fresh air and keep yourself warm. Don’t let the weather stop you from enjoying the great outdoors of Alexandria, VA. Let us know in the comments below which of these options interest you the most, as we all have our preferences. Like & Share this article with friends and family that also like exploring the great outdoors as much as we do.