Bikes and Hikes in Richmond

Numerous trail crews, volunteers and professional land movers have been hard at work updating and developing new hiking and biking trails all around Richmond. 

The Belle Isle Skills Park, located under the Lee Bridge on the southeast corner of Belle Island, is open. This new park is an addition to the 18 miles of urban single track trails nestled into the James River, Forest Hill and Byrd parks. Endorsed and recommended by the Mayor’s Bicycle Pedestrian and Trails Commission, the park hopes to enhance the Belle Isle area and embrace the sport of offroad cycling.

According to the designers, “the learning curve for mountain biking is steep and this area will help beginners and intermediate cyclists practice new skills in a safe and controlled environment.” Whether you’re a beginner or professional, pedal down to Belle Isle and prepared to be amazed.

The Cannon Creek Greenway Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Project is also open. This ongoing initiative encompasses the 1.9 mile area that comprises the Cannon Creek Greenway. The sidewalk and street intersections of the Greenway’s bicycle and pedestrian trails now connect businesses and the commercial corridor along E. Brookland Park Boulevard, allowing residential neighborhoods, schools, and community centers ease of access to these businesses by bicycling or walking. This trail increases the social, economic, and physical revitalization of the Northside and Gateway districts of Richmond.

City trails crew and volunteers have finished two new loops in the woods behind the Carillon in Dogwood Dell. Each is about a mile long, one for hiking and another for mountain biking.The best way to access the new trail heads is via Pump House Drive just north of the toll booth for the Boulevard Bridge.