Walks with Bear the Dog

and Other Adventures

🌾 Brawner Farm Loop + 2 Silos Brewing Co.

Manassas, VA
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Three Paws Up!)

This hike was such a fun surprise. We headed out to the Brawner Farm Loop, and from the moment the trail opened up into wide views, I was sold. I love a big field hike — there’s something about the open space, big skies, and long sightlines that feels both peaceful and powerful.

About 30% of the back side of the loop is an elevated boardwalk trail, which added a really cool change of scenery. Walking above the landscape while Bear trotted along made this hike feel a little different than your typical wooded loop. From there, the trail opens into a vast field that just begs you to slow down and soak it all in.

Along the way, you’ll also pass Brawner’s Farm, a historic landmark within the national park. The cannons scattered around the hike were an interesting sight — a great reminder of the history woven into this landscape. It’s one of those hikes where nature and history meet in a really memorable way.

Overall, it’s a cool, easygoing hike with plenty of visual interest — and Bear had a blast.

👉 Trail link:
Brawner Farm Loop (AllTrails)
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/brawner-farm-loop


🍺 Post-Hike Stop: 2 Silos Brewing Co.

After the hike, we drove about five miles to 2 Silos Brewing Co., which is as much about the experience as it is about the food and drinks.

I had one of their ciders, while my husband went with the Goats in Space IPA— both solid and refreshing. For food, we ordered the Chili and Beer Cheese Nachos, a the Cubano, and some wings. Everything was good, but the nachos were the clear winner — loaded, flavorful, and just a little spicy (in the best way).

The real highlight here, though, is the outdoor space. It’s huge, welcoming, and incredibly dog-friendly. There’s table-side heating, which made it extra comfortable, and Bear was more than happy to settle in while we relaxed and enjoyed the afternoon.

👉 Brewery link:
2 Silos Brewing Co.
https://2silosbrewing.com/


📍 Trail Stats & Tips

CategoryDetails
Trail NameBrawner Farm Loop
LocationManassas, VA
Distance~1.6 miles
TerrainFields, elevated boardwalk, packed dirt
Dog-FriendlyYes — on leash
HighlightsBig open fields, boardwalk trail, historic cannons
ParkingFree
Pro TipDon’t rush the field section — it’s the best part of the hike

💸 Trip Budget

ItemCost
ParkingFree
Cider$7
Beer$7
Nachos$12
Cuban$13
Wings$12
Total~$51

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I’m AJ

Mom of three, lover of adventure, and proud human to one very enthusiastic hiking partner – our Aussie – named Bear. Whether we’re exploring a hidden trail in Northern Virginia, wandering along the Potomac, or finding unexpected beauty in a city park, Bear and I are always on the lookout for our next great walk.

This blog is where I’ll share our favorite routes, little discoveries, and the moments of calm (and chaos) that come with hiking alongside a big, curious dog. I’ve always believed the best adventures don’t have to be far from home — sometimes, they’re just a few miles down a new trail.

And while most of these adventures include Bear’s happy paws, every now and then, I’ll post about solo adventures — because sometimes, the best walks are paws optional.

Let’s connect