Since I started living in Annandale, one of the biggest changes in my habits has been going to the park every weekend.

Sometimes I take the kids, and other times I go alone to quietly walk and gather my thoughts. Annandale is known for its Korean community, often referred to as the Koreatown of Virginia, but it also has plenty of natural spaces that are great for walking, running, and breathing fresh air. It's truly a blessing to have such natural infrastructure so close to DC.

The Cross County Trail is the first trail you should know about if you want to walk in this area. Its official name is the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail, and it is a multi-use trail that spans over 40 miles throughout Fairfax County. The section that runs through Annandale, the Accotink Creek section, is a 12.9-mile course that connects Wakefield Park to Fairfax Blvd/Arlington Blvd. Most major roads are connected by underground passages, allowing you to walk in nature without worrying about traffic. Walking, jogging, and biking are all possible, and in spring, you can see flowers, in summer, lush greenery, and in fall, beautiful autumn leaves, each season showcasing a different face. Just knowing about this trail solves half of the outdoor living experience in Annandale.

Mason District Park is my favorite place to go. Located at 6621 Columbia Pike, it has two trails: a short loop of 0.3 miles and a long loop of 0.9 miles. The shaded course that winds through the forest makes it pleasant to walk even in summer, and you can enhance your workout routine with fitness equipment installed along the way. There are many families bringing their dogs, creating a lively atmosphere. Runners often come here, and you can frequently see young parents pushing strollers. If you come early in the morning, there are fewer people, and it's quiet, making it perfect for meditation and walking.

The Hidden Oaks Nature Center trail at Annandale Community Park has a completely different vibe. This 52-acre park features a dense forest path with American beech, tulip poplar, white oak, red oak, and white pine mixed together. This area is known to host over 100 species of birds, and visiting early in the morning, you can find healing just from the sound of birds. Many people have reported seeing barred owls, horned owls, warblers, and wild turkeys. Nature interpretation programs are held regularly, making it a great place to come with kids for nature study and walks.

For those looking for a longer distance, I highly recommend Burke Lake Trail. Located about a 20-minute drive from Annandale in Burke Lake Park, this trail follows a beautiful lake. The breeze coming off the water is especially refreshing in summer, and the morning mist rising over the lake is impressive. Fishing and boat rentals are also available, providing enjoyment beyond just exercise. Lake Accotink Trail is also nearby and is particularly popular among cyclists.

Wakefield Park is the largest recreation park in the area. The Audrey Moore Recreation Center features a 50m x 25-yard swimming pool, three diving boards, and a super slide. There are tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts, baseball and softball diamonds, soccer fields, and a skate park, making it a place where you can meet any sports needs. The Cross County Trail passes through this park, so you can enjoy the park facilities while walking the trail.

On a nice day, putting in one earbud and taking a lap around the Hidden Oaks trail can blow away half of your daily stress. One of the biggest reasons I love Annandale is that I can enjoy this level of natural environment just 22 minutes from DC. If you want to develop a new exercise habit or have never walked these trails in the neighborhood, take this weekend as an opportunity to try it out.