Clifton and Burke, VA
A perfect short-and-scenic morning adventure
If you’re looking for a hike that’s quick, scenic, and full of energy without being an all-day commitment, the Bull Run Marina Loop is a perfect pick. We headed out early and had the trail mostly to ourselves — just the way Bear likes it.
Most of the hike winds along the water, giving you those peaceful, shimmering views that make even a 2 mile walk feel refreshing. The trail itself has fun ups and downs, enough to get your heart going but not so much that it becomes a chore. It’s a great option when you want a morning jaunt that fits neatly between breakfast and brewery time.
And speaking of convenience — there’s plenty of parking right at the trailhead, which always feels like a small miracle in Northern Virginia.
👉 Hike link:
Bull Run Marina Loop (AllTrails)
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/bull-run-marina-loop
🍻 Bunnyman Brewing (Burke, VA)
After the hike, we hopped over to Bunnyman Brewing in Burke — about 10 miles or a quick 21-minute drive from the trail. The brewery is quirky, welcoming, and consistently pours great beer. Today they had Cousins Maine Lobster as their food truck, which meant lunch was destined to be memorable.
I ordered the Garlic Butter Lobster Roll with tater tots, and let me tell you… absolutely amazing. Warm, buttery, garlicky perfection.
My husband had the lobster bisque, which was rich and delicious — but the sandwich definitely stole the show.
For drinks, I went with their stout, smooth and flavorful, and my husband grabbed an IPA. Honestly, it’s hard to pick a bad beer at Bunnyman. The vibe is relaxed, dog-friendly outside, and perfect for chill out after a good hike.
👉 Brewery link:
Bunnyman Brewing
https://bunnymanbrewing.com/
Trail Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~1.8 miles (loop) |
| Difficulty | Moderate – short but with ups/downs |
| Scenery | Mostly water views, forest, marina area |
| Parking | Plenty at trailhead |
| Dog-Friendly | Yes! Bear-approved 🐾 |
| Highlights | Water views, rolling terrain, quiet morning trail |
Tips for This Adventure
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Go early | Cooler, quieter, and better parking |
| Wear sturdy shoes | Some rocky and uneven parts |
| Keep pups on leash | A few steep edges near the water |
| Plan for a short trip | Great for a morning outing |
| Stop by the brewery after | Only 10 miles away, easy post-hike reward |
Trip Budget
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Parking | Free |
| Lobster Roll + Tots | ~$33 |
| Lobster Bisque | ~$11 |
| Beers (2) | ~$12 |
| Total | ~$56 |
Walks with Bear the Dog 
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