Sweet Run State Park, Virginia’s newest addition to the state park system, offers a pleasant outdoor escape with 11 miles of scenic hiking trails and surprising fishing opportunities. Located less than 50 minutes west of Good Wolf Gear, it's an easily accessible destination for a day trip, and you can stop for a treat or a wine tasting while you're in the area. The entrance fee for cars is $10, payable in cash or by scanning a QR code. It's free with an annual pass. I had good cell phone service with Verizon throughout the park, so it was easy to pay online. You'll also need a Virginia fishing license if you plan to try your luck. Drinking water and chemical toilets are available at the main entrance. There are no overnight facilities yet, but the park is developing primitive, hike-in camping for backpackers.
HIKING
Definitely download the trail map or pick up a paper copy - because you will likely need it. The park's 11-mile network of trails has many intersections, and I often had to refer to the map, even though most intersections are well-marked. Instead of recommending a specific route, I’d say just grab your map, go explore the park, and see what you find. You really can't go wrong because the trails are mostly smooth, wide, and easy to follow, and they are well-maintained by hard-working volunteers from the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. Even the single-track trails are pretty smooth, and I would love to go for a run there. Nearly all trails are open to equestrian users, and I saw two people on horseback when I visited on an April Thursday. For safety, remember that hikers should always yield to horses. (Those of us with equinophobia like to joke that horses are just as scared of us as we are of them!) The trails cross Sweet Run and Piney Run several times, and not all crossing have bridges. I was able to rock-hop across Piney Run at the crossing shown below, but I did have to turn around at another crossing to keep my feet dry.
The scenery is pleasant, and with no dramatic vistas, your eyes may be drawn closer to the path, where the wildflowers were varied and abundant. I saw the wild geraniums, violets, and Virginia spring beauties shown below, along with many others. I was serenaded by countless birds and saw a few six-spotted tiger beetles—you might remember those from our spring naturalist program. Bear do exist in the area, and I talked to one hiker who was being extra quiet because she hoped to see one.
FISHING
The Legacy Loop Trail passes Gordon Pond—a hidden gem. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a great little spot to take a break at the picnic table, cast a line, or just enjoy the quiet. It's about a mile from parking at the Sawmill entrance to the park, or about 1 1/2 miles from the main entrance. I had it all to myself, which is ideal because it's fairly small and could quickly become crowded. I had great luck landing lots of bluegill and small bass. Yes, I really do carry a container for pictures of smaller fish, and I use artificial lures with single, barbless hooks, which make releasing the fish easier on everyone. There are also catfish in the pond, and you'll find some limited opportunities for fishing in the small creeks, where creek chubs were biting.
"WORTH A STOP"
On your way to the park, you'll pass through the charming town of Hillsboro, which is officially recognized as an Appalachian Trail Community. Definitely make time for a stop at Stoneybrook Farm Market—whether you’re fueling up for the day, grabbing picnic supplies, or treating yourself on the way back. Their sandwich selection is seriously tempting, but I couldn’t resist the cinnamon rolls!
And since you’ll be in the heart of Loudoun County wine country, why not cap off your adventure with a visit to a local winery? It’s the perfect way to end a day spent outdoors.
