Virginia’s capital metropolis of Richmond is located in a very strategic and optimal place to take advantage of a variety of the state’s best nature. This is a guide for where to go hiking near Richmond.
Are you planning your journey to RVA last minute?If you’re touring to Richmond final minute, you wish to guarantee you’ve lodging and excursions booked ahead of time! Below are some of our prime picks to help you plan!
Where to Stay in Downtown Richmond:
Best Tours and Experiences in Richmond:
There are many hikes in Richmond that are good for all levels of health and desires.
Best hiking in Richmond VAWe are detailing the issue of the hike, the space, and where it’s positioned on this Richmond hiking guide.
If you’ve some other trail recommendations or outdoorsy issues to do in Richmond, please go away them in a remark below! Thanks!
Hiking Near Richmond – The List
This information is broken into three sections based mostly on problem: simple hikes, moderate hikes, and difficult hikes. We have also listed the kind of trail it is and the size on your planning convenience.
We have prevented putting trails in Shenandoah National Park or any hiking near Charlottesville on this record as it’ll presumably require an in a single day and we wanted to make this a listing of trails that might be hiked on as a day trip from Richmond.
To be trustworthy, there are not actually any ‘difficult’ hikes in the Richmond space, just like the easy hiking trails in Virginia Beach, so this record will primarily include simple and moderate hikes however some of them could additionally be deemed difficult depending in your condition and stamina.
We will leave that as much as you despite how we mentioned we might break it up above.
Belle IsleEasy Hikes in Richmond (& Nearby)
Dogwood Dell – Hiker Only Trail
Distance: zero.9 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Location: William Byrd Park
This trail is situated in William Byrd Park and is a moderately trafficked trail that could additionally be a unbelievable place for wildlife watching and any ability stage. It is dog-friendly as lengthy as the pup is stored on a leash.
Be cautious you don’t get on the incorrect path! There are multiple trails and when you don’t pay shut sufficient attention, it may land you on the mountain biking trail as an alternative of the simple strolling path.
The Dogwood Dell – Hiker Only Trail is nice for hot, summer season days as it is mostly lined by timber and vegetation.
Byrd ParkThis trail is finest used from February till November and we recommend downloading a map beforehand to make certain you stay on the right path!
Belle Isle Trail
Distance: 1.7 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Location: James River Park
This Richmond trail tends to be one of many more well-liked ones and persistently remains heavily trafficked. It is an essential place to go to when you have more than a weekend in Richmond!
It is located in James River Park close to the river and has lots of activities for anyone discovering themselves there. It is a pup-friendly trail so long as they’re on a leash.
Belle Isle Trail is open and accessible year-round and there are tons of spots alongside the means in which where you can deviate from the trail and go down on the rocks by the river.
There can also be a bridge that crosses the river and a few declare it can trigger nerves as it could sway forwards and backwards.
Forest on Belle IsleThe trail is very broad and flat and you’ll see ruins of a hydroelectric plant from the 1800s on the southside of the island. There are additionally opportunities to swim in several locations alongside the trail.
Bring water- it can be hot during the Virginia summers! Also, please choose up after yourself in case you are on this trail (or any trail, for that matter).
Pony Pasture Rapids Trails
Distance: 2.1 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Location: James River Park
One of my favorite locations to go in Richmond is Pony Pasture Rapids and I truly have some fond reminiscences from there after I graduated high school. However, nowadays, I look at it extra as a nature respite than merely only a place to socialize with associates.
The Pony Pasture Rapids trails are simply over 2 miles of trails which are a loop situated in James River Park.
It is heavily trafficked as this could be a very fashionable weekend spot in Richmond to flee the town, however it is price it. Dogs are permitted on the trail so long as they are kept on leash.
Pony Pasture Rapids ParkThe greatest concern with this trail is that it may be fairly crowded so in case you have the prospect to go through the week, opt for that instead. There are also wetlands in the space that can you explore if you’re on the lookout for a place barely quieter.
North Bank Trail
Distance: 2.7 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Location: James River Park
Another popular hike in Richmond is the North Bank Trail in James River Park. This simple trail is heavily trafficked and is dog-friendly pending that they are saved on a leash.
The North Bank Trail in Richmond is accessible year-round and is a superb place for families, chook watching, or just leisurely strolling and having fun with the attractive views and Virginia nature.
The trail is a bit rocky in elements so make sure to wear the proper sneakers on your journey and no matter exercise you have interaction in.
This trail presents incredible city views and views of the James River and the Kanawha Canal. It is a well-liked spot for mountain bikers however beware- it could be steep at certain points. If you’re looking for swimming alternatives, you’re close to Texas Beach.
Hiking near Richmond, VirginiaForest Hill Park Trail
Distance: 2.7 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Location: Forest Hill Park
This loop trail is a simple jaunt by way of some lush greenery in Forest Hill Park near Richmond.
It is one of the extra in style spots for hiking near Richmond and a fan favorite year-round. Dogs are allowed on the trail if they are on a leash.
While the Forest Hill Park Trail is classed as ‘easy’, many individuals say it can truly be more strenuous than anticipated if you’re not a daily hiker. Just be warned!
Forest Hill Park in Richmond VAAnother factor to note is that this trail gets a quantity of mountain bikers on it as opposed to hikers, so be looking out and stay to 1 facet of the trail if at all possible.
It can be a fantastic idea to obtain an offline map earlier than going to make sure you stay on the right trail at all times.
James River Canal Walk
Distance: 2.5 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Location: James River Park
The James River Canal Walk is a reasonably trafficked loop trail near Richmond. It is a suitable walk for all levels and ages.
It is also partially paved making it a fantastic place for those that could in any other case have issues on different trails in the Richmond space.
Dogs are permitted on the trail if they are on a leash. If you get there early sufficient, there could be free parking near the museum shut by.
People love this trail because it’s a great combination of city and nature and offers a nice refuge from the hectic metropolis life. There is some city art alongside the greatest way, spicing up the trail just a bit.
Moderate Richmond Hikes
Buttermilk Trail
Distance: 4.5 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Location: James River Park
This Richmond trail is and out and again positioned near town and is of reasonable problem. It is accessible year-round and is pup-friendly. In the park and by the trail, you can see several exciting activities ranging from bird watching to mountain biking and extra.
This trail is popular for runners, as well and it is well-shaded so it can function a refuge from the scorching Virginia warmth through the summer time months.
There is an extension in case you are not happy with four.5 miles. Some folks point out that the Buttermilk Trail could be more toward the ‘difficult’ stage if you’re not well-versed in hiking however on common, it is average.
If it is wet, it’s going to undoubtedly be muddy so costume accordingly. The Richmond hike goes right alongside the James River.
Chimbarazo Park Trail
Distance: 0.9 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Location: Chimbarazo Park
If you’re seeking hiking in Richmond alternatives, the Chimbarazo Park Trail could additionally be a great start line.
The nearly one-mile-long trail is reasonably trafficked and has gorgeous Virginia wildflowers and activities alongside the way. It is dog-friendly so long as they’re on a leash.
While the trail is marked as moderate, when you park your automotive near Broad Street as an alternative of down the hill a bit, it turns into a much simpler feat! There is also an off-leash dog park at the finish of the hill when you decide to deliver your canine alongside.
Close to the trail is a Battlefield Museum and the top finish of the trail is also a incredible place for admiring the sunset over the Virginia capital.
Beaver Lake Trail
Distance: 2.3 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Location: Pocahontas State Park
One of my favorite places in Richmond is Pocahontas State Park and this trail is a fan-favorite near Chesterfield County.
Beaver Lake Trail is dog-friendly so long as your canine is on a leash and the trail is best used from March until November.
A couple of notes in regards to the trail- it is somewhat overgrown in sure areas, so make positive you wear the best clothing and tote together with some bug spray and check for ticks after. Bikes are additionally NOT permitted on this trail.
Pocahontas State Park in Richmond VAThe hike near Richmond has a lake and the trail offers you some really nice overlooks towards it alongside the way.
It can get considerably crowded on weekends and turn into closely trafficked, so if you’re looking for a little little bit of peace, strive opting to go during the week.
While this is labeled as a reasonable trail, it is an ‘easier’ reasonable trail. While some people point out that this trail is wheelchair pleasant, most individuals are saying it is definitely not, so beware.
What to Bring
Naturally, gown for the season! Summers in Virginia are humid and sizzling, but if you’re lost within the forests near Richmond, it’ll most positively be extra snug than within the city. Here are some recommendations of what you must bring on a Richmond hike:
Reusable Water Jug:I recommend all the time having a reusable water jug with you always. Virginia’s climate is unforgiving and you can dehydrate quickly!
There are almost at all times freshwater sources obtainable in and across the area however do deliver some with you simply in case! I journey the world with my Klean Kanteen water jug and I assume it is the perfect one to get the job done when hiking!You can see the one I use right here.
Keen Targhee Hiking Boots:During Virginia’s hotter months, night storms and rain is extra common than not and you’ll likely experience mud somewhere in your hike.
I even have had my Keen Targhee hiking boots for many years and so they have helped me trek throughout some wild environments, so I definitely suggest investing in a pair if you’re an avid hiker.You can see my Keen Targhee hikers right here.
Mosquito Repellent: One thing I don’t miss after I go away Virginia’s borders are the mosquitoes, particularly if you are hiking near Richmond! But, they are unavoidable and a whole nuisance when attempting to enjoy the outside. I suggest a heavy-duty repellent to put your thoughts at peace before taking to the Virginia wilderness. Here is the mosquito repellent I use to discourage them!
Lightweight Daypack:If there could be one thing I have too a lot of, it is daypacks. While I love my Sandqvist and Ucon Acrobatics Bags, I opt for something a bit more light-weight when hiking.
My prime advice is the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack. It is durable and well-made and might be a simple accompaniment on your day hike.Click here to take a glance at shade options and buy.
Larabars:When I travel, I at all times hold some kind of ‘bars’ on me and my favourite are Larabars. I actually have been consuming these for well over a decade and they’re good for exciting day hikes as they are richer and more filling than their size indicates! You should buy a variety field or just buy your favorite.Click right here to purchase a field of Larabars on your hike.
Before heading out, remember to examine the weather. Richmond can have unpredictable weather at occasions and if you’re there in the summer aren’t a local, beware that we’ve storms virtually every night (like torrential rain!). An early begin is the easiest way to go!
Where to Stay in Richmond (and Surrounding Areas)
If you’re heading out on a day hike in Richmond, we advocate staying within the metropolis or somewhere close to it. Here are a few our favourite places to stay, together with a few highly-rated Airbnbs within the local space.
» Luxury:The Graduate Richmond
» Mid-range:
The Commonwealth
» Budget:HI Richmond Hostel
Airbnbs in Richmond (and Nearby)
Alternatively, you’ll have the ability to take a look at staying at an Airbnb in Richmond if you’d like a extra unbiased expertise (or simply something different!). Here are some prime picks of the best Airbnbs within the Richmond area:
» Unique Stay:Sharp’s Island (you literally get the entire island within the James River all to your self with your friends!), Treehouse glamping expertise in Richmond (rated top-of-the-line stays in VA)
» Luxury ($100/night and up): Little cabin near Richmond (you will have the complete cabin to your self and it’s beautiful and located near The Fan)
» Mid-range ($40-$100/night):Entire flat in charming Carytown (such an excellent location and Carytown is hip with so much to do)
» Budget (under $40/night):Private room in Richmond (gorgeous residence with a personal room downtown)
We hope that this guide to hiking near Richmond will get you energized and pumped to take to the nature within the capital. While Richmond is quite flat and the hikes aren’t too tough, just enjoying the scenery of the town is enough to get your thoughts back into the best place.
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