Editor’s note: From exceptional museums and children’s programs to historic haunts and unique hikes, there are numerous hidden places waiting to be explored in Prince William & Manassas.
Through a monthly feature, Discover Prince William & Manassas will help residents and visitors alike discover some of the best kept attractions, activities and events the community has to offer.
Prince William & Manassas’ Best Kept — Hiking Hot Spots
Spanning from the Bull Run Mountains to the shores of the Potomac and Occoquan 
rivers, Prince William & Manassas are filled with hiking paths that the whole family can explore.
Although known for its excellent fishing opportunities, Leesylvania State Park is also home to various hiking trails that unite history and nature. Once home to legendary Revolutionary War hero Henry Lee III, father of Civil War Confederate General Robert E. Lee, the park now features a roughly 2-mile interpretive trail that takes visitors on a journey through history.
Strap on some hiking shoes and head through the woods to see the Lee family cemetery, homestead and gardens. Continue on the trail toward Free Stone Point and walk the ground once traversed by Gen. Lee as he ordered the blockade of the Potomac during the Civil War.
Or, test your physical capabilities at Leesylvania’s fitness trail, which is located along the 2-mile Bushey Point Trail. Thanks to a grant and volunteers from Dominion Power a few years ago, the trail now includes exercise stations that test visitors’ strength, flexibility and endurance.
While the Leesylvania trails will give visitors stunning views of the Potomac shoreline, the trails in Prince William’s western end will take hikers through the mountains.
The Bull Run Mountains Conservancy offers guided hikes the first Wednesday of every month. Discover beautiful flowers and local wildlife while meandering through the mountain countryside or, hit the trails alone.
The park is open from dawn to dusk and visitors can travel 8 miles of trails that lead to old mills, homesteads, Civil War sites and family graveyards. One of the most notable buildings to see along the hike is the Beverley Mill. Visible from Interstate 66, the mill ground cornmeal and flour for American troops during seven wars- The French and Indian war through World War II. Although burned by Confederate troops after the Battle of First Manassas, the Beverley family rebuilt it and operated it through 1951.
To learn more about these hikes or other Prince William and Manassas trails, visit DiscoverPWM.com
