On The Path of Discovery - Hiking in Leesylvania State Park

“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better” Albert Einstein

Being out in nature is a big part of my recovery. It is as an abstract form of the 11th Step; my time to connect with the Universe. That may be a stretch, but I am not discounting the boost to my mental health and serenity. Being out in nature even for a few hours works wonders for my mind, body, and soul. There are numerous studies which back up this fact. And it beats taking anti-depressants any day.

I work in Manhattan and split time between Virginia and New Jersey. I am often worn out by the hustle and bustle of modern life. I need quality downtime to recharge my soul. Getting out into nature is the best way to do this. Sometimes, life gets in the way, and I can't get out as much as I want, but always try.

This past weekend my girlfriend and I (and our dog) finally had the chance to hike, and we headed out on a day trip to Leesylvania State Park. Located in Woodbridge, Virginia it is approximately 25 miles south of Washington DC. The park is very easy to get to. There is a small entrance fee, but once in the park, you can do most anything.

The Potomac River 

It was gorgeous Saturday. A perfect day for a hike on this small sandy peninsula jutting out over the Potomac River. The sky was a deep shade of blue with stray clouds drifting on the horizon. We parked our car, picked up a trail map from the visitor’s center. The visitor’s center is worth a look, especially for families. It houses a small museum documenting life in the area over the centuries. It was, but we didn’t linger long inside.

We walked along a path on the river bank where families played in the sun. Swimming, fishing, picnicking and even napping on hammocks strung between trees. We watched boats, and jet skis bounce on the Potomac River as we headed north. A short distance away we come upon the fishing pier extending over the river. We spied a pair of Osprey nesting on an empty piling. Further north we hit the trailhead for the Lee Woods trail. It’s what we came here to do.  The 2-mile loop circles through the old estates of the historic Lee and Fairfax families. It is very kid friendly, and a whole family can enjoy this hike. Dogs included. 

Nesting osprey. 

We took our time. We were in no rush. Our hike was all about presence and relaxation. I closed my eyes, imagining life when the Fairfax family lived here. I pictured the slower pace and heard the natural sounds. All while living more connected to nature and the surroundings. That is my dream.

The beginning of the hike starts at an amphitheater where the ruins of an old two-story hunting club remain. Veering right at the fork, we climbed a small hill to Freestone Point. From the embankment, General Robert E Lee once held a 5-month blockade of the Potomac. Using 32-pound cannons lining the hill, he denied Union forces access to Washington DC. A little ways past the battery there is a breathtaking view across the mouth of the Nebasco Creek. A row of colorful houses

Nebasco Creek

rail bridge line the far shore.

Our direction turned west as we trekked through old woods where ferns, pawpaw and wild raspberries lined the trail. Further along the path, we came upon the remains of Fairfax House. A foundational wall and two-story chimney are all that remain of this once stately home. 15 minutes to the north we reached the site of Lee House. Home to Robert E Lee’s grandfather, Henry Lee. There wasn’t much visible left, save a foundation wall and the two-person cemetery where Henry Lee and his wife Lucy are buried. 

Fairfax House

Two hours later we exited the way we came but the day was too beautiful to head back home. We drove down a short distance to Bushy Point Trail. The trailhead lies at the far end of the marina parking lot.  We passed by trail fitness stations at the beginning before we reached a park bench on the river’s edge. We had a spectacular view of the river stretching in both directions.  Fishing boats drifted along the current. All casting lures toward the river’s edge hoping for large-mouth bass

Yummy wild raspberry

 It is awe inspiring to watch nature in action. From our seat, we spied a majestic osprey flying overhead, and a blue heron wading in the river.  A still dragon-fly sat motionless on a tree branch bathing in the sun. I feel privileged to observe all these creatures. Seeing wildlife in their natural setting adds to my sense of well-being. Continuing our walk over the many boardwalks spanning over they marshy land. We spied turtles, a blue-tailed salamander, and a Northern Water Snake.

We walked along Bushy Point until we reached the railroad bridge and turned back. We had hiked for 5 hours and were getting tired. So was the dog. The day was amazing. I have never seen so much wildlife during a single hike. I am still excited about it almost a week later.  It won't be long before we return. It is worth the trip. 

The turtle hanging out. 

Sunbathing Dragonfly

Along Bushy Point Trail 

Scurrying blue salamander

Blue Heron wading in the Potomac

    

Northern Water Snake lying in the marsh.