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
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Nestled on a picturesque 1.05-acre homesite in one of Oakton’s most sought-after neighborhoods, this home is a rare offering that seamlessly blends timeless Colonial charm with sophisticated modern luxury. A welcoming wrap-around porch and impeccable curb appeal set the tone for the exceptional craftsmanship and thoughtful renovations found throughout this beautifully reimagined home. Inside, a
Welcome to this charming split level brick home located in a bright and friendly neighborhood. The home offers five bedrooms plus a bonus room that can serve as an additional bedroom, workout room, office, or playroom. Dual kitchens upstairs and downstairs provide flexible living options for extended family, guests, or entertaining. Major updates have already been completed, including all new
Kristi & Ben GuidryLong & Foster Real Estate, Inc.
*** OPEN HOUSE: Sat., March 21 from 11 am - 1 pm; Su., March 22 from 2 - 4 pm *** Set on nearly half an acre in desirable Oakton, this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home combines timeless upgrades with exceptional indoor and outdoor living. Mature landscaping and a welcoming flagstone front path lead to a residence filled with thoughtful details and quality craftsmanship.Inside,
Nestled on a picturesque 1.05-acre homesite in one of Oakton’s most sought-after neighborhoods, this home is a rare offering that seamlessly blends timeless Colonial charm with sophisticated modern luxury. A welcoming wrap-around porch and impeccable curb appeal set the tone for the exceptional craftsmanship and thoughtful renovations found throughout this beautifully reimagined home. Inside, a
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
Welcome to this charming split level brick home located in a bright and friendly neighborhood. The home offers five bedrooms plus a bonus room that can serve as an additional bedroom, workout room, office, or playroom. Dual kitchens upstairs and downstairs provide flexible living options for extended family, guests, or entertaining. Major updates have already been completed, including all new
Kristi & Ben GuidryLong & Foster Real Estate, Inc.
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,
*** OPEN HOUSE: Sat., March 21 from 11 am - 1 pm; Su., March 22 from 2 - 4 pm *** Set on nearly half an acre in desirable Oakton, this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home combines timeless upgrades with exceptional indoor and outdoor living. Mature landscaping and a welcoming flagstone front path lead to a residence filled with thoughtful details and quality craftsmanship.Inside,
Updated classic brick-front Colonial offers 3,200 square feet of light-filled comfortable and practical space on a lush .47-acre lot in a prime Oakton location. A welcoming foyer with gleaming oak hardwoods and neutral paint colors introduces the main level. The sun-drenched formal living and dining rooms overlook the front and rear yards. The expansive family room, designed for relaxation,
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
Water and Serene Peaceful Views! -To be Built Home- 8 Month build! - 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
Available for showings starting March 25th! Interior photos will be added on 3/25. Welcome to this beautiful 4-bedroom, 3.5 bath home, nestled in the coveted Sunnybrook neighborhood in Vienna. You'll fall in love with the fully renovated (2021) gourmet kitchen, featuring a large 14-foot island, ample (soft close) custom cabinet space, a separate beverage fridge, gas cooking, beautiful
Four residential lots on West Ox Road see enclosed project grading plan. Buy one or all four - Lot 12A features .67 acres and a great location in Herndon/Fairfax. We can team you up with a builder or you can choose your own. Call for details.
John SaboBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty
Beautifully updated estate home offering 5 bedrooms, 6 full bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms, and 8,216 finished square feet across three levels in a desirable Oakton location with Madison HS address. The main level features a two-story foyer, formal living and dining rooms, private study, spacious family room with fireplace, and a refreshed gourmet kitchen with new quartz countertops, full-height
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
Discover an exquisite opportunity to lease a stunning Colonial-style home nestled in the desirable Folkstone community. This charming residence, built in 1977, boasts a timeless brick front and vinyl siding, exuding elegance and warmth. With 3 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 luxurious bathrooms, this home offers ample space for relaxation and entertaining. The fully finished basement provides
Welcome to this charming and spacious ranch/rambler-style single-family home located in the highly desirable Oakton area. Offering 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and approximately 2,214 square feet of living space, this home sits on an expansive 0.88-acre lot, providing a rare combination of space, privacy, and comfort. Upon entering the home, you are greeted by a bright and inviting living room
Open house this Sunday 3/22 from 11am - 12:30pm! 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
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