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Dora Kelley Nature Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 561 Google reviews · Running trail in Alexandria, Virginia · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Dora Kelley Nature Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Sizable park offering trails & a nature center with animals & environmental classes.
What runners say about Dora Kelley Nature Park
“If you ever want to participate in a community clean-up, we usually clean the Dora Kelley Nature Park in April.”
“There can occasionally be a septic smell in certain areas, but overall it’s still a beautiful and relaxing park with a really calming atmosphere.”
“Dora Kelley Nature Park has become one of my favorite spots for running, walking, and clearing my mind.”
“It was an easy walk, my girls enjoyed themselves as well and can't wait to go back.”
I have been going to this park since I have been in middle school. I am now in my late 20s. As a kid, I would just care about riding my bike through the trails. As I got older I use this park as my way to heal myself from a rough day, or just find my balance again. This park is really refreshing.
Awesome trails, very smooth pavement and really nice neighbors 🫶🏼 the kids playground is a little old and broken all over the place lol but it still works. I can’t wait to visit during the summer and see this place at full bloom!
A very nice trail right in the heart of West Alexandria, near the Mark Center. You will feel like your in nature's own backyard with lots to see if you take your time and look around. Not too crowded but expect to run into others. To get a good hike in, cross over the trail on the other side of Beauregard Street.
I have lived and worked in Alexandria for years, but I had never been to this lovely park before! A part of Holmes Run, the paved and well-maintained paths meander past -and sometimes through- the stream. It’s a great escape from the bustle of the city.
Trail conditions & character
“There can occasionally be a septic smell in certain areas, but overall it’s still a beautiful and relaxing park with a really calming atmosphere.”
“A part of Holmes Run, the paved and well-maintained paths meander past -and sometimes through- the stream.”
“The trails are peaceful, shaded, and feel like a little escape from the city — honestly my meditation spot sometimes.”
“Besides the areas with stepping stones, this path is great for individuals with mobility limitations, with strollers or small children.”
Plan your run at Dora Kelley Nature Park
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitealexandriava.gov
- Phone(703) 746-4343
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Alexandria
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Holmes Run Scenic Easement
4.3 ★★★★☆ 66 reviews
Natural forested area with trails for hiking & biking, plus benches for resting.
Winkler Botanical Preserve
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Secluded area featuring a variety of nature trails, a mountain lodge & waterfall flanked by woods.
Holmes Run Trailhead
4.5 ★★★★★ 76 reviews
Relaxed recreation ground featuring a hilly landscape, creek crossings and jogging trails.
Turkeycock Run Stream Valley Park
4.1 ★★★★☆ 38 reviews
Fort Ward Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 479 reviews
Historic 43-acre park featuring a Civil War museum, dog exercise area, playground & amphitheater.
Bren Mar Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 170 reviews
This large, wooded park in a residential area features a playground, a picnic shelter & trails.