Vigorous Hike: Lake Fairfax area, 17 miles, 1000 feet of ascent

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HUNT LOFTIN

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Jan 31, 2026, 9:51:05 PM (7 days ago) Jan 31
to Vigorous Hikers
All trails in our area are snow covered. I hiked today in southern SNP and, like Northern Virginia, the snow is covered and so frozen that we walked atop the snow. It was very slippery and microspikes were a necessity. For that reason I have planned a hike for this Tuesday that has short climbs and numerous exits in the event the snow conditions are not fun for some. Some good news is that Tuesday is forecast to be a balmy 38 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Lake Fairfax is immediately adjacent to Reston. Take Barron Cameron Drive to Lake Fairfax Drive. That will lead into the park. Once past the park entrance gate, take the first right turn to park in the lot that is next to the Water Mine Water Park. 

We will start at 8:15 AM from the lot. We will need to stay together since there are numerous turns to get a distance of 17 miles. Additionally, we may make some turns that differ from the map if conditions warrant such changes. 

A carpooling site is not designated for this hike since the Centreville Park & Ride would be in the wrong direction for most people. 

I am unable to load the All Trails map. I can try to send it again later to those interested in joining the hike. 

There are no in-stream water crossings. Be certain to bring microspikes and a change of clothing as the warmer weather may make the snow wet. 

Please let me know if you will join us on this hike. 

Thanks

Hunt Loftin

Josh Silverman

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Feb 1, 2026, 6:25:07 PM (6 days ago) Feb 1
to hlo...@verizon.net, Vigorous Hikers
I would be willing to go but I am on travel at this point; I won’t be able to hike with the group either tomorrow or the following Tuesday.

The Lake Fairfax route is a good choice for the current conditions.  It is quite pleasant and it will show to advantage in the snow.  There are plenty of bailout points for those who want to shorten the hike.

Josh


From: 'HUNT LOFTIN' via Vigorous Tuesday Hikers <vigorou...@googlegroups.com>
Sent: Saturday, January 31, 2026 11:50:57 PM
To: Vigorous Hikers <vigorou...@googlegroups.com>
Subject: Vigorous Hike: Lake Fairfax area, 17 miles, 1000 feet of ascent
 
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