Now that it’s getting warmer, you may be itching to get some fresh air. We made a guide for local hikes that really peaked our interest.
Grab your water bottle, snack, and a cell phone — and don’t forget sunscreen + a first aid kit — and hit the trails. Pro tip: Here’s a printable list if you need a bit more packing guidance.
Trails
🌳 Forest Hill Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/CX9UzVdlkxb/
James River North Bank and Buttermilk Loop Trail
What to expect: This loop-style trail takes just about 3 hours to complete. It’s a popular choice for hikers, horseback riders, and bikers + offers a great hiking mix.
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 6.2 miles
Dog-friendly: Yes
Forest Hill Park Trail
What to expect: An hour-long route that features plenty of wild flowers, viewing points, and birds. This potentially challenging hike is open year-round and stretches around the Forest Hill Park Lake.
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2.7 miles
Dog-friendly: Dogs on leash
🌳 James River Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZDGVthlyVH/
Pony Pasture Rapids Trails
What to expect: Wander around the Pony Pasture Park and check out the rapids on this hour-long walk.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.1 miles
Dog-friendly: Dogs on leash
Belle Isle Trails
What to expect: Cross the bridge and follow the path around this historic island. It’s only 30 minutes long and offers multiple resting points for beginners.
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.2 miles
Dog-friendly: Dogs on a leash
Buttermilk Trail
What to expect: A multi-use, two hour trek across from Byrd Park and next to the James River. Pro tip: Be careful of slippery areas along waterways.
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4.5 miles
Dog-friendly: Dogs on leash
North Bank Trail
What to expect: This trail near the tracks is perfect for those looking for a potential fishing spot as well. The hour-and-a-half trail is relatively easy, but does include some stairs.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.7 miles
Dog-friendly: Dogs on leash
James River Canal Walk
What to expect: A pleasant one hour walk along the canal. Be sure to bundle up on chillier mornings + look out for windy days.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.5 miles
Dog-friendly: Dogs on leash
Floodwall and Slave Trail
What to expect: Historical walk filled with lots of learning spots and views. The trail itself is about two and a half hours long and is near the water.
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4.5 miles
Dog-friendly: Dogs on leash
🌳 Laurus Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/CSPBYgvr9Zb/
Laurus Park
What to expect: Need a break from the water? This hill-filled two hour hike is strictly on land.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 4 miles
Dog-friendly: Dogs on leash
🌳 Texas Beach Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/CVY9Nn-lpPl/
Texas Beach Trail
What to expect: This walking trail doubles as a beach, so there are plenty of spots where you can stop and chill near the water.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 4.8 mile
Dog-friendly: Dogs on leash
🌳 Maymont Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ca7IeNwuFU1/
Maymont Park Garden Trail
What to expect: Looking for something easy yet gorgeous? This hour-long garden trail is full of pretty nature sites — plus, there’s a waterfall.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.7 miles
Dog-friendly: No dogs allowed
🌳 Bryan Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/CI1LcUWl5KT/
Joseph Bryan Park Trails
What to expect: This is an easy hour-long hike that is near a lake. Surrounded by forest, it tends to be quieter than other trails.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.9 miles
Dog-friendly: Dogs on leash
Pro tips
New to hiking around the 804? Keep these tips in mind:
- Plan out your route or bring a map and compass to avoid getting lost.
- Always check the weather or RVA Trail Report before going on a walk or hike so you can prepare for trail conditions.
- Wear closed toe tennis shoes or hiking boots to protect your feet against weather and the environment. Plus, if you’re planning to hike somewhere that tends to be slippery make sure your shoes are also slip-resistant.
- Wear moisture-wicking clothing instead of cotton clothes.
Remember to tree your mind and follow your streams, Richmond. If you have any tips, tricks, or Richmond trails to add to our guide let us know. 🌳
