McLean Active Lifestyle Guide

Parks, Trails & Fitness in Northern Virginia's Scenic Community

McLean's lush landscapes and Potomac River access create an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. From challenging hiking trails to serene parks and top-rated fitness studios, this Northern Virginia community offers endless ways to stay active amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Discover our favorite ways to experience McLean's great outdoors.

National Park

Great Falls Park

⭐ 4.9 (3,420 reviews) Moderate

Spectacular Potomac River views from dramatic cliffs, with 15 miles of hiking trails including the challenging Billy Goat Trail. Perfect for rock scrambling and photography.

Park Info

Hiking

Scott's Run Nature Preserve

⭐ 4.8 (1,850 reviews) Easy-Moderate

336-acre preserve with waterfalls, wildflowers, and river access. The 3.6-mile loop trail combines forest paths with scenic Potomac River overlooks.

Trail Map

Family Park

Clemyjontri Park

⭐ 4.9 (2,100 reviews) All Abilities

Unique 2-acre playground designed for children of all abilities, featuring accessible swings, a carousel, and sensory-rich activities. Picnic pavilions available.

Park Details

Fitness Studio

The Bar Method McLean

⭐ 4.9 (320 reviews) All Levels

Boutique fitness studio offering high-intensity, low-impact workouts combining strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises at the ballet barre.

Class Schedule

Water Sports

Potomac River Kayaking

⭐ 4.7 (580 reviews) Beginner-Friendly

Guided kayak tours and rentals from Riverbend Park, offering serene paddling with great blue heron sightings and occasional bald eagle sightings.

Rental Info

Community Park

McLean Central Park

⭐ 4.6 (1,020 reviews) Easy

50-acre park featuring a disc golf course, gazebo concerts, walking paths, and seasonal farmers market. Home to McLean Day festival each May.

Events Calendar

McLean Outdoor Safety Tips

Check trail conditions - Some paths near the Potomac can flood after heavy rains.
Wear proper footwear - Many trails have rocky sections and uneven terrain.
Bring plenty of water - Especially during humid Virginia summers.
Watch for wildlife - Including deer, foxes, and the occasional black bear.
Stay on marked trails - To protect fragile ecosystems and avoid poison ivy.
Leash pets - Required in all Fairfax County parks for safety.

Seasonal Activities

McLean's outdoor offerings change beautifully with the seasons. Summer brings kayaking and outdoor yoga, fall features spectacular foliage hikes, winter offers crisp walking tours, and spring blooms with wildflower trails and cycling events.

View Seasonal Guide

Dining, Shopping, and Things to Do in McLean

Active Lifestyle in McLean

→

Beauty Care in McLean

→

Nightlife in McLean

→

Contact Details

Susan Wisely of Compass

Phone

(703) 927-3126

[email protected]

Address

6849 Old Dominion Dr., #400 McLean, VA 22101

Licensed Agent in VA and DC

Submit a Message

Middle Name

Name

Phone

Message

By providing Susan Wisely your contact information, you acknowledge and agree to our Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications, including through automated calls, texts, and emails, some of which may use artificial or prerecorded voices. This consent isn’t necessary for purchasing any products or services and you may opt out at any time. To opt out from texts, you can reply, ‘stop’ at any time. To opt out from emails, you can click on the unsubscribe link in the emails. Message and data rates may apply.