The Perfect Cure for Cabin Fever!

One of the best kept secrets of Loudoun County is the abundance of nature trails and county owned conservation areas.

I have lived in Leesburg for 5 years and have seen the growth of the county take place right around my home. In order to succeed in my line of work, I have made it a point to keep with the new and upcoming development. One thing that I have overlooked the past few years, is the accessablility and beauty of all of the nature preserves and conservation areas in all of Northern Virginia.

Toward the end of the winter break ... (15 day long holiday!!)... I started going stir crazy! In a spontaneous manner, which I often do, I said to my husband and kids , "Get ready, we're going on a hike!" (Their Response-"YAHOO!!! " )

Within 10 minutes, we were in the mini-van... jackets, scarves, mittens and hiking boots on... pulling into the parking lot of a historic park ---literally in our back yard---ready to begin our adventure!!!!

We went to the Red Rock Wilderness Overlook Regional Park http://www.nvrpa.org/parks/redrock/index.php. Let's be clear, I have 3 children between the ages of 4 and 6, so I was not looking for an intense adventure. The trails at this park were just enough to get our adrenalin going and hearts pumping.

There were several paths to choose from with varied terrain and distance options. We chose the Yellow trail...perfect for my group. The trails were in great condition... easy to navigate and clear from debris, yet still maintaining it's natural setting. My kids loved breathing the fresh air, and actually commented on the clean air that they were breathing! Woah..Al Gore would be proud!

After a manageable amount of time, we came to a cross trail. While pondering which way to go next, I looked up and saw a breathtaking view of the Potomac River...( I guess this is why they call the park "Overlook"! ) We decided to head toward the river.

To get there, we had to repel (on a 6-10 year old level,of course) down the cliff to get to the edge of the river. That was a blast and the scenic moutains behind the river were beautiful!

After throwing stones and looking for fish along the coast line (remember, 4 years old!) we decided to head back on a different path.

We made it back up the hills and through the woods just in time for sunset!

It was defininelty the best cure for our cabin fever!

Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority has wonderful, family friendly places to visit and things to do throughout all six of it's jurisdictions: City of Alexandria, City of Fairfax, City of Falls Church, Arlington County, Fairfax County and Loudoun County.


You must visit the website and look at all there is to do.... http://www.nvpra.org .... Canoeing, camping, golfing, water parks, nature trails, nature centers, farms, historic sites and tours and so much more!!! Best of all, many are free!!

I can't wait to explore more!

Here is the next event I saw on their calendar.. Check it out and let me know you thoughts!

• Jan. 11 2009 Meadowlark Botanical Gardens"Tour of Meadowlark's Greenhouses"2:00 p.m.

Here's to finding adventures in our own back yard!!

Carmelle Shea