South Run

Well-appointed South Run is situated on lush terrain between two lakes, with a central green space and recreation center. Embroidered with walking trails, its curvy streets branch into an abundance of cul-de-sacs. Residents enjoy quick access to essentials, as well as places to bike and kayak. And because it’s pocketed between Routes 286 and 123, South Run residents can easily reach the 900,000-square-foot Springfield Town Center or the quaint waterside delights of historic Occoquan. Tammy Irby, Team Leader with Live the Easy Life Real Estate, powered by Samson Properties, says “It’s a really walkable community and very lively. Plus, it’s nice location for military residents or government employees, because we’re not far from Quantico or the Pentagon.”

Homes here are far more luxe than modest. Built mostly between the ‘80s and 2010s within a collection of communities, you’ll notice brick fronts and neutral siding are prevalent, as are double garages and multiple dormers. Says Irby, “There are options from three-bedroom starter homes to five-bedroom homes with basements so you can move up into a larger property, but still stay within your community. I’ve been selling here for 37 years, and my kids have all grown and joined the real estate team here, too. It’s a great place to raise a family.”

Depending on which community you choose, architectural variety includes Cape Cod, contemporary Craftsman and grand Colonial Revival styles. On its southern end, in Barrington near Lake Mercer, five-bedroom brick colonials are priced just over $1 million. To the north, in the Estates at Oak View, homes backing to the 900-acre Burke Lake Park can fetch $2 million. In between, you can find a four-bedroom colonial with a charming porch for around $795,000, or a town house on Lake Mercer for $735,000. A seven-bedroom mansion in Chapel Bridge Estates can ask $1.5 million.

In the high-ranking Fairfax County Public School system, students may start at several elementary schools, including Cherry Run, Sangster and Silverbrook. Middle school students move on to South County Middle or Lake Braddock Secondary School which Niche gives an A+ rating. Ninth through 12th graders head to South County High School which earns an A grade from Niche. In 2023, SCHS students who submitted their work for the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards won gold key status to compete at the national level.

South Run is known for outdoorsy pursuits, including lakeside treks or birdwatching. And because it borders the nearly 900-acre Burke Lake Park, frisbee golf, trail-running and mini-golf are all part of the lifestyle. Burke Lake Park also features a spacious outdoor amphitheater in the woods, as well as vast green lawns for picnics. Locals hop aboard a miniature replica of the Central Pacific Huntington steam engine for a nearly 2-mile trip through the forest. In the center of South Run, athletes join the Seahawks swim team at South Run Regency pool, or hit the sports courts and fields for basketball, tennis and soccer. Pups appreciate the South Run Dog Park, and all ages “Go Ape” at the Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park, stitched with ziplines and obstacle trails above the trees.

Peaceful Lake Mercer to the south of the community is the most undeveloped escape, where residents hike through dense woods around the glassy lake to unwind, refresh and connect with wilderness. Irby adds, “People love South Run’s parks and lakes. Not only do you have pools and sports fields in planned communities like Burke Center and Fairfax Station, you have all the County facilities, too. It’s really valuable, because in Northern Virginia, if you work, you drive; and it’s made our traffic one of the worst hot spots in the nation. So, when you get home, having recreation close by without having to drive is so important.”

It’s easy to run errands and enjoy dining at a host of convenient retailers in Huntsman Square. Here, you can visit the bike shop, or salons and medical services all in one spot. Groceries are convenient at Giant, or you can pick up lunch at Subway. Chopsticks in Huntsman Square is a casual go-to for Chinese cuisine. Irby adds, “Steak n’ Things in Fairfax Station has really good food. It’s a popular little place to grab a sandwich.” From its variety of contemporary homes to its calming locale, South Run offers a satisfying balance of necessities and luxuries. Says, Irby “People love the quality of life here. It has a very active, friendly vibe.”

Written By

Lia Girard

Video By

Anthony Pesa