Holmes Run Trailhead — Attraction in Bailey's Crossroads

This is a great little trail. It's easy to miss if you haven't been there before, but the secluded feeling makes the trail all the more peaceful. On our Sunday hike we came across several runners, bikers, and fellow hikers (some with dogs), so it's far from deserted, but certainly not what I would call busy. There are several ups and downs along the trail which make it more of a hike than a stroll. The views vary from tree canopy to rocky riverbed to serene ponds complete with frogs and turtles. It's a beautiful green space that will make you forget you're in the middle of Fairfax county. FYI there are several points where you cross Holmes Run itself. You can either walk through the running water (the crossings have a level concrete floor), or you can use concrete pilings which serve as stepping stones. The bikers didn't seem to have any problems crossing, but it may be difficult...

Nice woodland break from city life but you may break a leg-- not accessible. Came here on those sunny Saturday afternoon with a two and a half year old. The weather is great. On the pro side the paths are clear and well kept. However The first creek ends up being a little smelly and the only way to cross it are through these stepping stone pillars. I saw several people carrying bikes and even a baby stroller on top of the pillars. It's a little bit unfortunate that the water is not cleaner so that people aren't afraid to walk through. A little further down we did see some people swimming in the actual streams. Not sure if that's prohibited or not. It was very difficult having to pick up my 2-year-old every time we came to a stream crossing. However it was a lovely way to spend an hour. People are very friendly and patient when it comes...

The Fairfax County website promotes this trail as a bike trail. I've ridden this short trail and had to walk across the stream at five points, carrying my bicycle while balancing on the round concrete stepping stones. Bicycle shoes with cleats make the stream crossings even more of a challenge. Parts of the trail feel very remote, with no sounds of traffic or views of any buildings. Although there is some occasional sewage odor, although I read that the country is closing part of the trail for up to a year (starting October 2017) to perform sanitary...