Spout Run facts for kids

Spout Run is a small, natural stream found in Arlington County, Virginia. It flows through a beautiful, forested area, making it an important part of the local environment. This stream eventually joins a much larger and more famous river, the Potomac.

What is Spout Run?

Spout Run is a short waterway that starts near Interstate 66. From there, it travels northeast, following along the Spout Run Parkway. The stream flows through a narrow valley, often called a gorge, which is surrounded mostly by trees.

Where Does Spout Run Go?

The journey of Spout Run ends when it flows into the Potomac River. This meeting point is right across from a group of small islands in the Potomac known as the Three Sisters. Even though the parkway runs next to it, most of Spout Run's path is still wild and natural, covered by forests.

A Bit of History

Spout Run has changed a little over the years. In the 1950s, a second part of the stream was covered up. This was done by building a large pipe or tunnel, called a culvert, underneath Kirkwood Road. This part of the stream originally started near Washington Boulevard.

Names from the Past

This second branch of Spout Run had different names long ago. At first, it was called Breckin's Branch. This name came from a person named Reverend James Breckin. Later on, it became known as Ball's Branch. This name honored the family members who were descendants of Moses Ball.