No series of local trail tours would be complete without this one. I think this is the most beautiful Northern Virginia trail, and if you hike only one local spot, this is the one to choose. When you live only nine miles from a National Park Service site, you should probably go check it out. If you haven’t been to…

Did you know that the National Park Service offers a program to host artists so they can create art, music, or books in beautiful locations? I didn’t, either. It sounds amazing, and I’d love to be able to take part in this program. One Reston artist had that chance earlier this summer. This year marks the Centennial of…

Reston may be best known as a growing urban center, but it is also home to exquisite natural scenery, which is particularly magnificent in the springtime. Here are some scenes from Reston during the last several weeks.                               Photo credit: Charlotte Geary. Prints and…

If you’re not hooked on Instagram yet, you’re missing out! It’s a showcase of talent and inspiration. Whether your interests lie in art, food, music, sports, fashion, nature, or countless other topics, you’ll find something intriguing on Instagram. Here are ten of our favorite local Instagrammers. While you’re browsing, be sure to follow us at @modernreston for…

Trees are part of Reston’s unique identity — unlike many suburbs, this area has preserved several of its mature trees. When you live in a city nestled within a forest, every season is beautiful. Autumn, however, is almost magical here in Reston. As we rake the last of this year’s foliage, let’s look back on…

If you’re like lots of people, you start each year invigorated and committed to getting fit. It’s a fresh start! You are motivated! And then you discover an overcrowded gym packed with all the other resolution-makers, and the thrill is gone. Or maybe you spend the first day of January in your traditional spot on the sofa, recovering…

It’s time for another trail tour! Last month we featured a trail that was ideal in the late summer heat. This month, we will give tours of two Reston trails that you absolutely can’t miss during the fall. Reston is known for its magnificent trees, and the next few weeks are their crowning glory. There’s no better time…

Ever since I first saw this photograph, I’ve wanted to know the story behind it. What a spectacular view of Lake Anne in the fall! I stumbled upon this picture online last year, and it has stayed with me all this time. When I finally learned more about the photographer, I was excited to discover that his aerial…