Potomac Overlook Regional Park

The envy of public transportation and smart growth proponents nationwide, Arlington County is a model "green" citizen. But with land at a premium, the County lacks undeveloped green space. Beyond the trail corridors (W&OD, Potomac Heritage), does Arlington County have a signature nature park?

In answer to that question, Trail Voice nominates Potomac Overlook Regional Park. At only 67 acres, this park is dwarfed by its Fairfax/Montgomery/Prince George's County counterparts. In this case, however, the old adage rings true: good parks come in small packages.

Energerium sign for the Potomac Overlook Regional Park Nature Center

Hiking Trails

Within its boundaries, Potomac Overlook boasts a respectable 2.5 miles of natural surface hiking trails. Shenandoah it is not, but for many, 2.5 miles provides a satisfying trekking experience - especially considering the terrain. Sitting high on a bluff overlooking the Potomac (hence the name), Potomac Overlook Regional Park has enough steep (but brief) hills to raise your heart rate.

With your map in hand, park in the main lot by the pavilion to start your hike. Here's the loop we recommend:

Farm Road / Overlook Trail (Black) > Left turn to Red Maple Trail (Red) > Heritage Loop Trail (Green) > White Oak Way (White)

For additional mileage, access the park via N. Randolph St. and include Blue Jay Way (Blue) or the Red Maple Trail (Red) extension.

Heritage Loop Trail in Potomac Overlook Regional Park

Trail Connections

If you're a hardcore hiker with a penchant for mileage, hopefully we haven't lost your attention. As all heavy trail users realize, the key is in the connections. Via the Brown Creeper Connection (Brown), the park links to the Donaldson Run Trail which in turn intersects with the Potomac Heritage Trail. Starting from the Virginia side of Chain Bridge, follow these directions for an approximately six mile route (mileage in brackets):

South on Potomac Heritage Trail [1.0] > Left turn to Donaldson Run Trail [0.8] > Left turn to Brown Creeper Connector Trail [0.1] > Potomac Overlook loop [~2.0] > Retrace route

Park Programs

Through the years, Potomac Overlook Regional Park has dedicated itself to serving the community in more ways than one ("one" being hiking). The park's nature center, a retrofitted 20th century home, is the centerpiece of its community and environmental stewardship programs.

Nature Center

For many visitors, the grand tour of Potomac Overlook starts with the Nature Center.

• Energerium: The main floor exhibit is devoted to exploring the interconnectivity of energy and living systems. For more information, check out the GreenMan video.
• Auditorium: The bottom floor auditorium holds up to 50 people (open for birthday parties!) and features plant and animal exhibits.

Environmental Stewardship and Cultural Programs

Several environmental organizations, including Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment and the Arlington Regional Master Naturalists, are regular park stewards. Not to be left out, school groups, scout groups, and even local companies arrange volunteer and educational programs with park staff. Considering the busy calendar of events, it's easy for you to get involved: 

• Volunteer Work Days (monthly, first Saturday): Indoor and outdoor projects around the park
• Earth Day Celebration (April 17): Plant trees and milkweed for the monarch butterflies
• Open House & Heritage Festival (May 2): Music, food, exhibits, and games for the family
• Summer Concerts (starting May 22): Free Saturday evening performances

As treasured landscapes, public parks bring people together. In north Arlington, Potomac Overlook Regional Park fills that crucial role.

Location / Directions: Arlington, VA
Park Size / Trail Distance: 67 acres; approximately 2.5 total miles
Surface / Difficulty: Natural; Moderate
Trail Map: Map of Potomac Overlook Regional Park
Administration: Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority
Social Media: Facebook, Twitter

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