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
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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.
In Oakton High School pyramid, this stunning 6-bedroom, 5 & 1/2-bath home is being offered by its original owners and has just been beautifully updated throughout. The 6500 sq ft home features a unique and modern floor plan with refinished hardwood floors on both the main and upper levels. The bright white kitchen shines with new quartz countertops, brand-new appliances, and a large breakfast
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
Please remove your shoes upon entering.Beautiful, private, fully furnished basement in a single-family home located in the Oak Hill areaAll utilities includedTenant pays Internet and trash onlyIn-unit amenities:Full-size washer and dryerFull bathroomSpacious bedroom with a sitting areaGood-sized dining roomComfortable living roomFull upgraded kitchen
The house is vacant, Please schedule via Showing Time. This beautifully maintained, custom-built home has it all—over 5,000 sq ft of living space, tons of upgrades, amazing privacy, and some of the best views around! Tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined lot that backs to woods, this home offers a peaceful retreat while still being just minutes from Reston, Tysons, DC, the Metro, and the airport.
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
