Named after a tributary of the Potomac River, the Difficult Run area offers sprawling estates, just a quick drive from some of Northern Virginia’s largest cities. With Tysons 10 miles away, and Arlington and Washington, D.C. about 20 miles east via Interstate 66, the community’s nearly 11,000 residents can enjoy the slow pace of the suburbs, while maintaining proximity to big-city amenities. The area consists of secluded residential streets, branching off Fox Mill and Valen roads, as well as park space, primarily used for hiking. Though some folks make the daily commute into Washington, many avoid the traffic and work in McLean, Tysons or in health care at Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, right next door.
Live Entertainment at Starr Hill in Tysons Corner provides corn hole and other fun activities.
Whimsical sculptures can be found throughout Tysons Corner.
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Striking single-family properties in Difficult Run
The housing market in Difficult Run consists of single-family homes, most of which bear Colonial Revival architecture. New traditional houses, Tudors and Capes are also thrown into the mix. Lots are often spaced out generously, with some measuring multiple acres. Many properties are large enough for private tennis courts, pools and courtyards, as well as detached barns and guest houses. The median price falls at $1.25 million, which is more than double the national figure.
Majestic homes sitting on lush green lawns can be found throughout Tysons Corner.
Beautiful landscaping abounds as you drive the streets of Tysons Corner.
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A top ten school district in Virginia
According to Niche, the A-rated Fairfax County Public Schools district ranks as the No. 6 best district in the state and holds the No. 2 spot for athletics. Families can enroll their kindergarten through 12th graders at the private Dominion Christian or Flint Hill schools, which both score an A-plus. Flint Hill also has a prekindergarten program.
McLean High School is one of several quality education centers in McLean.
Dominion Christian School is located in Oakton.
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Hiking and biking the trails at Difficult Run Stream Valley Park
The area offers a wealth of outdoor recreation. Difficult Run Stream Valley Park is a stretch of multiuse trails that winds through the heart of the community. The Fred Crabtree Park nearby provides picnic spots and baseball fields, and lakes Thoreau and Audubon, just north, accommodate kayakers and anglers, along with hikers on its waterfront paths. Golfers have plenty of facility options, including the Reston National Golf Course and the International and Penderbrook golf clubs.
Boro Park is a comfortable place to sit and enjoy a beautiful day in Tysons Corner.
Freedom Hill Park is easily accessible by road for residents of Tysons Corner.
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Everyday needs at the Fairfax Towne Center
Though Difficult Run is a primarily residential enclave, shopping and dining spots sit a short drive away. The Fairfax Towne Center has big-box grocers and everyday conveniences, and the Fair Oaks Mall features dozens of retail stores. Both shopping areas are within about 3 miles. Locals often dine at restaurants with international cuisines in Reston, Fairfax or Tysons.
Andy's Pizza is a popular dining destination for locals of Tysons Corner.
The Summer Live Music Series is a great time for Tysons Corner locals to enjoy great music.
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Navigating the towns west of Washington
Interstate 66 runs just south of Difficult Run. This route connects drivers to the 66 Express Lanes Outside the Beltway, which provide faster travel options during high-traffic hours. The Dulles Toll and Access roads offer direct routes east toward Tysons and Washington, D.C., or 8 miles west to the Dulles International Airport.
Property crime patterns in the Fair Oaks District
The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) consists of nine stations, and Difficult Run falls in the Fair Oaks District. According to the FCPD Annual Statistical Report, the number of property crimes increased slightly between 2022 and 2023. The report also shows that Fair Oaks saw lower volumes of property crime than other county districts, such as McLean and Mount Vernon.
Written By
Grace Pitney
Video By
Emily McNamara
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Miryam Bohabot,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Difficult Run, VA sell after 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Difficult Run, VA over the last 12 months is $1,250,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Terrific contemporary style home on a beautiful 1 acre lot in Oakton! This property is ripe for redevelopment or you can remodel the current home. No HOA and so much opportunity here! "Walk through" this home right now by clicking the Tours button to access the 3D Matterport tour! Recent updates include: washer/dryer - 2025, tankless water heater - 2024, well pump - 2023, HVAC - 2021, driveway
Vienna Living with Reston's Convenience: Your Private 1-Acre Oasis Awaits! NEW PRICE!! Discover the best of both worlds in this classic brick-front colonial perfectly situated in desirable Vienna (22181), right on the border of Reston. This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of quiet luxury with exceptional space and a fantastic location for commuting and lifestyle! Property
Mid-century modern opportunity in sought-after Oakton. This 4-bedroom, 2 bath single-family home offers 1,826 square feet of living space on a private 1-acre lot, surrounded by $1M+ homes, it is a rare chance to buy into the neighborhood under $850K. The primary bedroom is on the main level, and vaulted wood ceilings highlight the home’s classic architectural character. The dining area features
Terrific contemporary style home on a beautiful 1 acre lot in Oakton! This property is ripe for redevelopment or you can remodel the current home. No HOA and so much opportunity here! "Walk through" this home right now by clicking the Tours button to access the 3D Matterport tour! Recent updates include: washer/dryer - 2025, tankless water heater - 2024, well pump - 2023, HVAC - 2021, driveway
Stately split-level home backing to the woods of Wayland Street Park! Two distinct basement levels give this unique home five different levels with approx. 3,400 sq ft of living space on magnificent 1/2-acre landscaped lot! Major renovation done in 2002 with over $150k spent on updates throughout home, including a $100k top-of-the-line kitchen remodel offering cherry cabinets, granite counters,
Welcome to Edgehill Estate—an extraordinary residence that embodies timeless elegance and modern luxury in the heart of Oakton. Set on 11 beautifully landscaped acres, this stately, oversize brick and stone colonial—inspired by the historic Carter’s Grove—offers over 20,000 square feet of meticulously designed living space. This grand residence masterfully blends classic American Colonial design
Tracy ShivelyDouglas Elliman of Metro DC, LLC - Washington
This fully remodeled Modern Ranch at 10900 Hunter Station Rd on almost 2 acres showcases sophisticated design and exceptional craftsmanship. The home has just undergone a remarkable transformation that includes huge addition with 3 car garage, meticulously renovated to create a perfect blend of modern luxury and elegance. Spanning 3 beautifully designed floors, this nearly 7,400 square foot
-To be Built Home- Welcome and Step into the elegance and grandeur of the Hampton II C, a stately and expansive estate home by Classic Homes that redefines refined living. This semi-custom residence offers over six thousand square feet of luxurious living space, with 5 spacious bedrooms, 5.5 well-appointed bathrooms, and a thoughtfully designed layout perfect for modern lifestyles. From the
Vienna Living with Reston's Convenience: Your Private 1-Acre Oasis Awaits! NEW PRICE!! Discover the best of both worlds in this classic brick-front colonial perfectly situated in desirable Vienna (22181), right on the border of Reston. This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of quiet luxury with exceptional space and a fantastic location for commuting and lifestyle! Property
More pictures coming soon. This charming Colonial Split Level home offers a perfect blend of classic design and modern comfort, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a warm and inviting atmosphere. Step inside to discover an interior adorned with rich hardwood flooring that flows seamlessly from room to room. With 2,760 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space on 4 levels, this
Premium Half-Acre Corner Lot in Herndon – 4-Bedroom Septic Approved | Oakton HS Pyramid | No RPA | Backs to WoodsWelcome to 3144 Searsmont Place, Herndon, VA 20171—a beautiful half-acre (20,651 sq ft) corner lot offering the perfect canvas to build your dream home in one of Fairfax County’s most desirable neighborhoods. This exceptional parcel is fully approved by Fairfax County for a
***Public Open House Schedule will be posted shortly! Professional floor plans/tour will be posted on/about February 2. ***Welcome home to this private Oakton gem, offering over 2,000 finished square feet across four beautifully appointed levels. Perfectly sited on a 1/2 acre lot beneath a canopy of mature trees, this home delivers a rare blend of privacy, comfort, and timeless appeal. From the
Mid-century modern opportunity in sought-after Oakton. This 4-bedroom, 2 bath single-family home offers 1,826 square feet of living space on a private 1-acre lot, surrounded by $1M+ homes, it is a rare chance to buy into the neighborhood under $850K. The primary bedroom is on the main level, and vaulted wood ceilings highlight the home’s classic architectural character. The dining area features
Stunning Half-Acre Buildable Lot in Herndon – Approved 4-Bedroom Septic | Oakton HS Pyramid | Total Privacy Backing Protected ParklandBuild your dream home on this stunning 0.50-acre lot located at 3140 Searsmont Place, Herndon, VA 20171—one of Fairfax County’s most desirable areas. This exceptional parcel is fully approved for a 4-bedroom septic system, giving future homeowners and builders
Fully reimagined. Completely rebuilt. Nothing left untouched. This isn’t a renovation — it’s a top-to-bottom transformation.A timeless Colonial on the outside.A sleek, modern lifestyle on the inside.Wide hardwood floors stretch across the main level, pulling you straight into the expanded designer kitchen — the true centerpiece of the home. Think quartz counters, stainless steel
Welcome home to this beautifully renovated Cape Cod in the heart of Oakton! Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and 2,150 sq ft (including the sunroom and finished lower level), this home sits on a rare 1-acre lot in Fairfax County with NO HOA. Surrounded by mature trees and lush green space, the expansive front, side, and backyard offer exceptional privacy—perfect for relaxing, entertaining,
NEW IMPROVED PRICE! This one-of-a-kind home is a must-see, offering a rare blend of privacy, character, and convenience. Set on 1.28 acres across two parcels, the property is surrounded by lush landscaping and tranquil views of a private stream, creating a peaceful retreat in the heart of it all. Originally a converted hunting lodge on Hunter Station, the beautifully updated home is filled with
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