Description
Long Branch Nature Area’s 18 acres include a managed meadow, two ponds, demonstration gardens, and a mixed hardwood forest of oak, hickory, tulip poplar, and blackgum. The park is located along Long Branch Stream that flows into Four Mile Run, a tributary to the Potomac River. An extensive paved foot and bicycle path follows Long Branch downstream through thickets of speckled alder, ironwood, and witch hazel, to its confluence with Four Mile Run, located in Glencarlyn Park. At Glencarlyn Park check “Sparrow Swamp,” where a variety of waterfowl and wading birds have been observed. Pick up a trail map and bird checklist at the Nature Center.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Long Branch Nature Center at Glencarlyn Park:
165 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 13 Jan 2026 | 16 | Carol Mullen |
| 5 Jan 2026 | 8 | Kieran Stevens |
| 31 Dec 2025 | 8 | Kieran Stevens |
| 24 Dec 2025 | 9 | David Ledwith |
| 20 Dec 2025 | 37 | Steve Young |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Site Amenities: Bike Trails, Hiking Trails, Interpretive Program/Events
Maps & Directions
From Previous Site on the Great Falls Loop of VBWT:
From Dora Kelley Park, return to Beauregard Street via Sanger Avenue. Turn right on Beauregard Street and follow it 1.0 mile to Seminary Road. Turn left on Seminary Road and travel 1.1 miles to Carlin Springs Road. Turn right on Carlin Springs Road and go 0.6 miles to South Carlin Springs Road. Continue on South Carlin Springs Road 0.5 miles to Long Branch Nature Area and Glencarlyn Park.
Site Information
Managed By:
- 0
Access Requirements:
Contact Information:
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.