Hitting the Trail
This month I’m hiking the West Scottish Highlands, a 96-mile trek through the lochs and mountains of Scotland. While I’m looking forward to it, the 12+ mile a day itinerary is a little daunting, so I’ve been practicing on various hiking trails in Richmond. I’ve always liked to walk the fan and museum district, but it’s more of an urban experience. Over the past few months, I’ve come to appreciate wooded pathways, and the variety of trails Richmond has to offer. Here’s a few I’d recommend for a nice change of pace...
- Distance: 1.8-mile loop
- Highlights: Historic Civil War-era structures, expansive river views, and large flat rocks perfect for sunbathing or picnicking. Accessible via a pedestrian suspension bridge from downtown Richmond or several walking trails south of the James.
Buttermilk & North Bank Trails
- Distance: Each trail is approximately 3 miles; combined loop is about 6.5 miles
- Highlights: These interconnected trails offer a mix of technical terrain, rock scrambles, and scenic views of the James River. Popular among hikers and mountain bikers alike.
- Distance: Approximately 2 miles round trip
- Highlights: A hidden gem featuring sandy river beaches, graffiti-covered stairwells, and access to secluded spots along the James River.
- Distance: 3.2-mile loop
- Highlights: A historic park with wooded trails, a serene lake, and remnants of an old amusement park. Great for a peaceful urban escape.
- Distance: 2.1-mile loop
- Highlights: Easy trails along the river with opportunities for wildlife viewing, kayaking, and access to rocky outcrops for sunbathing.
Beaver Lake Trail at Pocahontas State Park
- Distance: 2.5-mile loop
- Highlights: Located just outside Richmond, this trail offers a tranquil hike around Beaver Lake, featuring boardwalks, bridges, and abundant wildlife.
Larus Park
- Distance: Varies from 1 to 3 miles, there are multiple interconnected wooded trails through rolling hills complete with streams, waterfalls and fern beds.
- Highlights: A lesser-known park with a network of trails through mature forests, offering a quiet retreat within the city. It’s my favorite place to hike, and one of Richmond’s best kept secrets.
Enjoy!
