Reston's Best Parks: Walker Nature Center

It's summertime, which means it's time for outdoor fun. But where are the best places to go in Reston for your summer fun needs? Starting this week, we're highlighting the best Reston has to offer when it comes to public parks.

Reston boasts more than 1,350 acres of open space and a wide variety of facilities and programs, as well as 55 miles of paved pathways and trails, according to the Reston Association. If you're in the mood to explore nature, check out the Walker Nature Center at 11450 Glade Drive, which provides educational resources, programs and facilities.

"Through the use of direct experiences and interpretive media, the mission of the center is to foster good environmental stewardship in the community," according to the website. "The center was named after Reston’s first Open Space and Nature Center Director, Vernon J. Walker who was hired in 1967. Mr. Walker believed in a healthy coexistence of nature and people."

The nature center itself sits on 72 acres of woodland property with a full mile of loop trails. You can dine al fresco at the park, as it offers picnic tables and a pavilion.

The programs the Walker Nature Center offers include bird walks, wildlife counts and classes and a variety of programs for both adults and children.

The nature center welcomes both volunteers and contributions.

Nature House Hours:
Mondays and Wednesdays-Fridays 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sundays 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
Closed to public on Tuesdays and on RA holidays.

You can also read the nature center's newsletter, "Branching Out."

Image via Reston Association