Park Spotlight: Potomac Overlook Regional Park

Bordering the Potomac River in north Arlington, this 70-acre plot run by the Northern Virginia Park Authority is a peaceful, wooded oasis tucked away in a corner of Virginia's most densely populated county. Miles of hiking trails dotted with native wildflowers lead under the George Washington Parkway to the banks of the Potomac. The naturalist staff conducts programs on ecology, local natural history, Indian history, and energy for schools, groups and the general public. New this year are "Unlocking the Secrets of a Living Planet," guided walks where visitors solve puzzles, and "Canoe the Marsh," naturalist-lead canoe trips. Both events are held regularly on weekends into the fall.


Additional features:


The park is open year-round during daylight hours. The Nature Center is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, and 1-5 p.m. on Sundays. Closed Mondays. The address is 2845 N. Marcey Road, Arlington. For details, call 703-528-5406 or visit www.nvrpa.org/parks/potomacoverlook. 

Special event:

23rd Annual Open House & Heritage Festival. Sunday, May 4, 1-4 p.m. A springtime tradition for all ages with music, entertainment, food, community exhibits, games and a maypole dance. Free.