Turkey Run to Dead Run

Turkey Run Park is available to hikers year-around and is located just off of George Washington Parkway in McLean, Virginia. The exits are clearly marked and you simply drive to parking lot C-1 to start this hike.

Turkey Run has numerous trail options available but I chose an out-and-back. When you park you will see the large sign with a map. Hikers will walk past this sign and continue on the trail. It will continue down for about 200 feet. There are wooden and rock stairs to help you get to the bottom. You'll have opportunities to look out over the Potomac as you make your way down. Once you are at the bottom you'll see signs offering different trails. Take the path for Turkey Run and look for the yellow blazes on the tree.

The trail will follow the run into the woods. You'll have numerous opportunities to photograph the little falls and the creek. Each season provides its own beautiful backdrop. You will reach a bridge that holds George Washington Parkway. You will need to cross the creek in this area, go under the bridge, and then cross back over to continue on the trail. There are numerous large rocks or downed trees to help you cross.

The trail can be difficult to follow at times. The yellow blazes are few and far between but as long as you travel along the run you will be fine. Eventually the trail will split - choose to stay straight. The trail that goes to the right continues to Dead Run. When you reach the large yellow arrow on a tree you can turn around and return the way you came.

Turkey Run can get busy at times so plan to go early or on a week day. You may find that you have the trail to yourself.