Winkler Botanical Preserve

"You'll pass neighborhood parking and a gate to enter a limited parking area, but the spots are marked and it's easy to navigate. I went on a day with lots of leaves on the ground which was absolutely gorgeous! however, it made it a little difficult to follow the trails. there are enough trail markers and "do not enter" signs to get back on track quickly if you find yourself off path. the lodge made for a lovely view next to the lake with the midmorning sun and blanket of fall leaves. I walk fast and stayed for about 40 minutes. it was a fine morning walk. Looking forward to going back at the heart of each season to see what beauty the preserve has to offer. The path (unpaved) is about a mile and a half and I'd say moderate difficulty due to some areas with incline. Be careful to stay on the path if you have difficulty with uneven terrain (knee issues, etc). on the other hand if you like exploring off path there are a few areas where you can do so."

"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."

"An interesting park to take an east stroll/pseudo hike in West Alexandria. I was very surprised coming across the bridge and little cabin. I’d recommend wearing hiking shoots or boots. There’s a good enough amount of winding paths that you can make it a short easy trek or a long one."

"Park in the middle of Arlington. We were there on President's day. We were lucky to get there as someone was leaving as there's very limited parking. A few short trails to walk around. Saw a few families with little children while we were there. My main grouse is the ugly ugly parking garages from what I presume is the Mark Center that are visible from every trail in the park. They are depressing. Hence the three stars. Am sure it's prettier in the spring when the foliage blocks the buildings. If you live close by, a good place to stretch your legs."

"Very lovely trails through a lush wood and gentle creeks. Based on the flora, there will likely be fields of flowers during the Spring. Some notes: 9 standard parking spaces 1 handicap parking space Dogs and bikes are explicitly forbidden as to not disturb the preserve. Gates lock at 4pm daily. The gate may be half open during open times, but you can still drive into park."