It’s no secret that this time has been tough on everyone and adventurers are getting stir crazy to make an appearance back out in the world.  During this time, we have taken time to explore local trails, safely and responsibly, within 30 minutes of our home.  At this time we do feel it is best to stay close to home and practice leave no trace principles to an even stricter degree ensuring we reduce our footprint on all outdoor areas.  This time is rough, but having a little time each weekend to take advantage of these beauties helps to keep things in perspective.   Here are 5 of our favorite spots just a short jaunt from RVA!

1. Dutch Gap Conservation Area

   Only 18 miles from the city, this place took us by surprise!  After cancelling our UK trip and spending a hectic week planning our city’s homeless services pandemic response, I definitely needed to find a little oasis amongst the chaos.  Turns out this place did the trick! The 5 mile loop provided an escape while showing off river views, the first spring wildflower blooms (my favorite!), and wildlife (butterfly and bird watchers were sprinkled along the trail).  The trail is wide enough to follow social distancing practices, making it the perfect afternoon getaway this Spring!

2. Point of Rocks

Point of Rocks is another near-Richmond gem we had not taken advantage of until earlier this year. I remembered an old friend of mine used to rave about the trails, so we took advantage of a warm January Sunday to check it out for ourselves.  Again we were not disappointed with the river views, tucked away meadows, and swampy marsh land all rolled into one park. We will definitely be visiting later this year to check out the summer greenery!

3. Richmond National Battlefield Park

We are lucky here in Richmond to be just minutes from a few National Park units.  First up is the Richmond National Battlefield Park. The great thing about this park is there are different sites scattered throughout the Richmond Metro Area.  Whether you are looking for a more remote trail or something right in the heart of the city, this park’s got it for ya! The Tredegar Iron Works visitor center offers the perfect gateway to our downtown trails (Belle Isle, T. Pott Bridge, and Canal Walk) while the Cold Harbor Battlefield gets ya to miles of trails within a short drive of the city. Drewry’s Bluff is another hidden treasure south of the James, providing a new view of the river!

4. Petersburg National Battlefield

Petersburg, a thirty minute drive from Richmond, also offers an abundance of trails and views through their local National Park units.  The City Point unit in Hopewell, VA (again another city just miles down the road from Richmond and Petersburg), is a personal favorite of ours.  It offers river views, waterside trails, and historical buildings with well-keep grounds of lush green fields sprinkled with flowers.

5. Deep Bottom Park and Four Mile Creek

Deep Bottom Creek, located just 13 miles east of the city, is the perfect place to bring your water gear and cool off during those hot, humid Richmond summer days.  We did just that on one of the hottest days last July and plan on making it a habit this coming summer. Thanks to our great friend Parker we had access to some awesome kayaks and enjoyed winding through Bailey Creek, right off the James!

As the weeks continue to come and go during this weird, weird time be sure to get outside, stay close to home, and practice safe distancing and common sense. Enjoy this time exploring what’s just in your backyard and know that a time will come again for those bigger adventures, I know we are!