Uncover Richmond’s Active Adventures with iBestTravel
Lawyers and legislators keep Richmond buttoned up on weekdays. However, on weekends, the city transforms into an urban adventure zone, especially along the James River. Paddlers tackle Class III and IV rapids, mountain bikers dash down single tracks, and climbers scramble across boulders and fallen oaks. After an exhilarating workout, everyone heads to the Richmond Beer Trail. Therefore, get moving and join the crowd with our guide to the city’s best active adventures.
Island Time in the Middle of the City
A graceful pedestrian walkway, suspended beneath the busy Lee Bridge, allows joggers, mountain bikers, and rock hoppers to access Belle Isle, a 50-acre island offering stunning views of the downtown skyline. The flat, low-lying boulders lining the island’s north shore are perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and watching kayakers navigate the thrilling Hollywood Rapids. Overlooking the scene is the historic Hollywood Cemetery, named after the rapids.
The island features an easy one-mile trail that loops around its periphery, making it accessible for hikers and cyclists alike. This level path begins at the site of a Civil War POW camp, which has become a picturesque meadow. It then meanders alongside the island’s rocky shoreline. Additionally, a bike skills course, revamped in 2016, awaits bikers looking to sharpen their skills with dirt ramps, wooden obstacles, boardwalks, and walls.
For the adventurous, consider a guided tree-climbing tour with Riverside Outfitters. Once secured, you’ll scale a towering 40-foot oak, traversing its mighty branches and exploring a leafy canopy complete with ziplines and rope bridges.
Free parking is available near the pedestrian bridge, just west of the American Civil War Museum at Historic Tredegar. Established in 1837, Tredegar was an ironworks facility responsible for producing Confederate cannons and warship plating during the Civil War.
Adventures Along the James River
The James River Park System encompasses 550 rugged acres of shoreline and small islands, straddling the river’s fall line. This riparian paradise attracts over 1 million visitors annually.
Within the park, mountain biking enthusiasts can explore more than 12 miles of trails. Skilled bikers should venture onto the Buttermilk and North Bank Trails, which run parallel on either side of the river. Cyclists can link these to create a 6-mile loop by crossing the Boulevard Bridge and the Lee Bridge. The Buttermilk Trail has historical significance; during the 1800s, farmers would cool their milk cans in the spring waters beside the trail before market. Visit www.rvamore.org for trail maps and difficulty ratings.
For rock climbers, the 60-foot-high Manchester climbing wall, composed of an abandoned granite train trestle and three nearby pillars near the Manchester Bridge, offers 43 routes ranging in difficulty from 5.4 to 5.11a.
History & Hiking: Canal Walk & Brown’s Island
Strolling along the 1.25-mile riverfront Canal Walk, visitors can envision a bustling 19th-century trade district. This scenic pathway meanders along the north bank of the river between 5th and 17th Streets and across Brown’s Island. Built in the 1800s, the historic canals and locks significantly enhanced commerce by allowing cargo boats to bypass the falls. Look for striking street art at the walk’s eastern end.
Brown’s Island can be reached from the south shore by crossing the T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge, a new outdoor hotspot in the city. This 1/3-mile-long bridge, open to pedestrians and cyclists, showcases stunning views of downtown to the north, and to the south, you might see rock climbers in action.
In mid-May, approximately 100,000 outdoor adventurers and music fans gather at Brown’s Island for the three-day Dominion Energy Riverrock Festival. Sign up for a mud run, an adventure race, or a 10K trail run, followed by live performances from bluegrass, roots, and folk bands. Participants can also enjoy stand-up paddleboarding with their dogs or learn bouldering and slacklining.
Both the Canal Walk and Brown’s Island are conveniently within walking distance of the Belle Isle parking lot and Historic Tredegar.
On the Water: From Raging Rapids to Funday Floats
Richmond is unique as the only metropolitan area in the United States where Class III and IV rapids flow through downtown. You can easily find yourself on the water, paddle in hand, within a 10-minute drive from your downtown hotel.
The best time to run the rapids is between April and late June when spring rains elevate water levels. For adrenaline-filled waves, consider booking a lower river trip. These excursions typically depart below the Boulevard Bridge, navigating the wild rapids near Belle Isle. Alternatively, for family-friendly experiences and wildlife viewing, opt for a float down the Upper River. Numerous companies offer ‘Falls of the James’ trips, which cover both river sections for a comprehensive adventure.
For those who prefer DIY adventures, renting kayaks or inner tubes is an option. You can launch at Pony Pasture on the north side of the river, west of the Lee Bridge, then float 3.5 miles to the Reedy Creek headquarters located south (4001 Riverside Dr). Exiting at Belle Isle or Brown’s Island is also possible. Always check water levels for safety before setting out, and visit www.jamesriverpark.org for river conditions and access points.
Pedal Along the Virginia Capital Trail
For a historical ride, cycle down the Virginia Capital Trail. Completed in 2015, this paved bike and pedestrian path stretches 52 miles between Richmond and Jamestown, weaving alongside the James River and numerous historical sights.
The Richmond trailhead is located at Great Shiplock Park (Park & Dock Sts). Historic markers along the trail reveal details about the region’s past. If you prefer not to retrace your route, return to Richmond on a Cap Trail Bike Shuttle.
From Great Shiplock Park, it’s six miles to indulge in delicious ribs, beef brisket, and pulled pork at Ronnie’s BBQ (mile marker 45). Cyclists can continue to the Shirley Plantation (mile marker 30), which dates back to 1613 and features a popular vineyard and restaurant serving gourmet Southern cuisine. The grand Berkeley Plantation (mile marker 27), reputedly the site of the country’s first official Thanksgiving in 1619, lies a few miles further east. For bike rentals downtown, check out Kickstand (3011 Water St). Tours offered by Basket & Bike combine historical insights with wine tasting.
Brews & Views
After a day of active adventures, unwind at one of the numerous breweries along the Richmond Beer Trail; this growing trail supports over 30 craft breweries, founded in 2017.
Relax on the patio at Legend Brewing, a local favorite known for its rich brown ale and splendid views downtown. Alternatively, venture to the emerging Scott’s Addition neighborhood to check out newcomer Väsen Brewing. The unique caribou mural in the taproom creates a vibrant atmosphere, while the brewery’s staff advocates for local adventures and craft beers. After a thrilling day on the river, a cold brew awaits you!
