Trails in Central Virginia for Walk Your Dog Month

Our real estate agents know that going out for a nice walk is a terrific way to enjoy nature as you spend some quality time with your canine companion. No matter whether you are looking at Richmond homes for sale or Petersburg homes for sale, there are plenty of chances to enjoy our safe and well-kept trails.

Walk Your Dog Month is celebrated every January. Central Virginia trails welcome you to bring your dog on a leash. Most city, state, and many federal lands around the RVA are pet-friendly, only asking owners to pack out waste and "leave no trace." You can make your next walk a truly special treat.

Let's visit some of the most popular trails in Central Virginia:

• James River Park – 1200 Brander Street, Richmond, VA 23224
  James River Park is known for the Buttermilk Loop Trail, which is considered one of the top on-leash dog trails in the Richmond area, as well as Pony Pasture Rapids Trail, a 2.1-mile stretch that's welcoming to hiking beginners. Visitors love the historic suspension bridge over the James River you can find if you embark on the moderate Belle Isle Trail. For relaxing riverside views, check out the North Bank Trail.
  
  
• Byrd Park – 600 South Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220
  Byrd Park is a natural oasis of nearly 300 acres set in Richmond's Near West End, starting at the historic Columbus Statue. As you trek through the park, you'll find Swan Lake and Shields Lake, where fishing and picnics take place all year. An exercise trail known as the Vitacourse is one of the enduring favorites. Weekend mornings and early afternoons are ideal for meeting other dogs and making friends.
  
  
• Petersburg National Battlefield – 1539 Hickory Hill Road, Petersburg, VA 23803
  Petersburg National Battlefield is a historic site known for its pivotal role in the U.S. Civil War. With four units spread across 2,700 acres, you can choose a guided ranger walk or explore the battlefields on your own.
  
  
• Forest Hill Park – 4021 Forest Hill Avenue, Richmond, VA, 23225
  Forest Hill Park is home to a trail of 2.7 miles and is a hit with local pet owners. It is the #2 most popular on-leash trail around Richmond. Beginners should beware, however, as parts of the trail can be slippery. Rocky terrain presents a significant challenge, so check out the weather before you go! Forest Hill Park also links up with the Buttermilk Loop Trail, allowing you to start a 4.5-mile journey from here.
  
  
• Larus Park – 8732 Hayden Hill Lane, Richmond, VA 23235
  Larus Park is an urban oasis that sprawls across 106 pristine woodland acres. Despite being just minutes from the heart of Richmond, it's considered a hidden gem within the city park system and is not broadly known. Its network of single-track trails provides more than 2.5 hours of walking, running, cycling, or hiking. Although a top pick among well-informed local dog owners, it still offers plenty of solitude.

The combination of natural beauty, a strong local economy, and world-class amenities help attract new residents to the RVA every year. Contact us to find out more about Richmond real estate opportunities.