I’ve lived across the street from the Greenbriar neighborhood in Fairfax for most of my life. One of the things I love about the neighborhood is the trail that runs through it. It is a pleasant walk along side the creek that is my secret pathway from my home in Poplar Tree to the Greenbriar Shopping Center. So here’s everything you need to know about the Rocky Run Stream Valley trail’s Greenbriar segment.

The Rocky Run Stream Valley Trail is longer than the segment that runs through Greenbriar. It actually runs all the way from the Fairfax County Parkway by Monument Drive to Eleanor C. Lawrence Park, almost 3 1/2 miles. It goes through Greenbriar, Poplar Tree, Cabells Mill, and down to Walney Pond.

The trails are mostly used by residents of the neighborhoods, and many don’t even realize they exist. In terms of the Greenbriar segment, I use it from Greenbriar Park and down to Greenbriar Commons Park where I continue via sidewalk to Greenbriar Shopping Center.

The trail is a nice walk, and definitely worth driving to and exploring even if you don’t live in the neighborhood. It runs along the creek, and the sounds of nature and running water are an escape from the typical community traffic. That being said, there are segments where you have to cross streets and you aren’t out in the “real” forest. But the bridges and water crossings are an added touch of nature fun.

The best places to park are either at Greenbriar Park off of Stringfellow Road (the side lot on Melville Lane by the tennis courts) or on the street by Greenbriar East Elementary School and enter through Greenbriar Commons Park. Greenbriar Commons Park has a playground, sand volleyball and a picnic area. It is located right next to the Greenbriar Swim Club.

If you live in the area I suggest you drop by and check out the trail. Running, biking or a nature walk, you are sure to enjoy the nature.