Looking to enjoy some sunshine with a scenic stroll around the River City? Here are five of our favorite routes to really take in the beauty of Richmond.
Windsor Farms
A historic neighborhood behind Carytown, Windsor Farms was one of the first planned neighborhoods in Richmond after the introduction of the streetcar and automobile. The route passes both Agecroft Hall and the Virginia House. A flat, perfect 1.5 mile loop with minimal through-traffic, Windsor Farms is a perfect path for architecture lovers and history buffs.
Riverside Drive
Beloved by Richmond runners, this street stretches nearly 12 miles total south of the James. The flat stretch between Huguenot Flatwater and Pony Pasture is by far the most popular among walkers, runners, and cyclists. The road is accessible to strollers and wheelchairs, but the street can be tight and winding, so watch out for cars. Pro tip: Park at the shopping center across the Huguenot Bridge to add ~2 miles of river views to your trek.
Lewis G. Larus Park
Regular readers already know we love Larus Park. The beautiful, relatively quiet trails are accessible from two trail heads — 3409 Stony Point Rd. and 9013 Old Holly Rd. A three-mile journey through all four of the main trail loops will include lush flora and fauna including running cedar moss, loblolly pines, and blueberry bushes.
Hollywood Cemetery
An industrious traveler could spend hours wandering the hills of historic Hollywood Cemetery. The well-paved roads intersect endlessly, but one trip around the outer loop is right around two miles.
Tour de James
The Buttermilk Trail, North Bank Trail, and Belle Isle are some of Richmond’s most popular trails — why not connect them? Start from the Oregon Hill overlook, then hop on the Buttermilk via Belle Isle and head west. Cross the Boulevard Bridge, turn left into the parking lot, and take the North Bank back to where you started. That’s 6.5 miles of gorgeous riverside views.
