Lake Anne Blue Trail Loop

Tucked inside the heart of Reston, Virginia, the Lake Anne Blue Trail Loop is a 1.65-mile loop with 274 feet of elevation gain winding through wooded terrain along the shores of Lake Anne. It's one of the more underrated walks in Northern Virginia — quiet, scenic, and easily accessible from the DC metro area.

The Trail

The Blue Trail loops around Lake Anne as part of the Reston Association trail network, which maintains over 55 miles of pathways throughout the community. The route passes through mature forest with regular glimpses of the lake, making it a solid option for a quick nature reset without leaving the suburbs.

• Distance: 1.65 miles
• Elevation gain: ~274 feet — more rolling than flat, with a few short climbs
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Best for: Dog walks, family hikes, evening strolls

Lake Anne Village

The trail connects to Lake Anne Plaza — Reston's original town center, built in the 1960s and modeled after European waterfront villages. It's worth wandering after your hike: local restaurants, a weekend farmers market (spring through fall), and one of the area's more charming spots to grab a coffee or a beer lakeside.

Practical Info

• Dog-friendly — leash required on Reston Association trails
• Parking: Available at Lake Anne Village (Washington Plaza)
• Access: Free, open year-round
• Best seasons: Spring and fall for foliage; summer evenings are popular for the lakeside village scene