Within an earshot of the Capital Beltway (I-495), a tiny 335 acre enclave surprises most Scott's Run Nature Preserve newcomers. This little slice of nature amidst the capital city sprawl is one of the D.C. metro area gems, ever increasing in popularity.
   A system of the trails is woven in and around Scott's Run Valley as the creek quickly heads northward to join the Potomac River. Pathways and trails vary from easy to difficult, taking in the preserve's woodlands and river bluffs. Paths wind through a rich collection of wildflowers and ancient hemlocks. The wild flower collection includes trailing arbutus, trilliums and Virginia bluebells. The diverse tree canopy also helps visitors link the names of beech, oak, wild cherry, river birch and sycamore with the trees.
   Pictured here, in this beautiful autumn setting, is the Scott's Run Falls just before it meets the Potomac River. Although the trails are not marked, there are usually a few kind trail Samaritans to point the way.

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