Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

Winter Solstice Sunrise Hike

Location of Widewater State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Visitor Center
Main Park Address: Widewater State Park, 101 Widewater State Park Road, Stafford, VA 22554.

When

Dec. 21, 2025. 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

This Winter Solstice, join our rangers on a morning hike through the Holly Marsh Trail to see the sunrise over the Potomac River! With sunrise at 7:30am, the hike will begin at 7:00am sharp. Registration is required and you can register here.

Bring a water bottle, or thermos with a hot drink, and dress for the weather in warm clothes! Remember to check the conditions outside before coming as there may be ice or snow on the ground. The Holly Marsh Trail isn't accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.

The park does not officially open until 8:00am, so visitors going on the hike must get to the Visitor Center between 6:30am-6:55am as the entry gates will be locked again at 6:55am. Only visitors registered for the sunrise First Day Hike will be admitted into the park early.

Sunrise over the Potomac River.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-288-1400
Email Address: widewater@dcr.virginia.gov