Winkler Botanical Preserve

In the middle of Alexandria, Virginia is a 44-acre nature preserve, one of the largest piece of undeveloped land. When the Winkler family developed the nearby Mark Center, Catherine Winkler Herman set aside this green space as a gift to the community. Entrance is free. Here’s why you should go:

1) Hours: It’s open every day (except federal holidays) from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. There are signs warning guests that the gates close right at 4 p.m. so be sure to get out by then.

2) Space: It’s 44 acres so it’s big! When you walk in, follow the trail around the pond. Little trails venture out from there. You can hear city sounds on the trails closest to the highway, but other than that, it’s a peaceful oasis. When I went on a Thursday afternoon, I saw two other people there and that’s it!

3) Lookout: There’s a rocky cliff across the pond from the lodge that’s perfect for sitting and enjoying the breeze while watching geese swim in the pond. There’s a nice waterfall nearby too.

A few things to be mindful of:

1) Parking: There isn’t any. The apartment complex has reserved parking for guests, but technically it’s not for Winkler Nature Preserve visitors.

2) Trails: They are NOT stroller-friendly. The trails aren’t hard so kids who can walk are fine, but they are rough and uneven and none are paved.

3) Lodge: The lodge is closes for renovation so there are no public restrooms.

No tickets needed, beautiful hiking park with picnic area

The Preserve has a few things going for it. When I visited the lake, near the lodge, had geese and ducks, and there was a clean picnic area. The main pathways are clean and well maintained. But once you start walking the side trails be careful. Lots of uneven stairs and trails sometimes are not trails. There are still lots to see and nice bridges. Never did find the waterfalls and the lodge was closed. Which I think, if there are restrooms, that’s where they are at. Also no trash can. Still a good place to walk, bird watch, read, eat a lunch, and enjoy nature.

I’m impressed by this botanical preserve which is really close to my house and I never suspected it was there. There are no paved paths. but the trails are in pretty good condition. I was wearing ballet flats and did fine and I saw other people with other kinds of shoes from running shoes to Flip-flops. Spoke to a friendly Tom because I want to possibly bring my relatives here next week and he suggested there are some flatter trails which would be great for older folks. I was able to take a good tour of the park in less than an hour. No actual public restrooms. This is good for a short walk in a beautiful wood. I also saw what appeared to be a summer camp group here.

Great place to spend the afternoon hidden in the concrete jungle as I made my way to the airport. Scenic preserve, with walking paths. Admission is free, parking is limited.