The best city hikes and walks around Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach offers a wide variety of urban hiking experiences. Our guide features over 25 distinct urban hiking routes, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate treks, providing plenty of options to explore the city's diverse landscapes.

For an easy and pleasant urban hike, consider the Marshview Park Pathway, which is just under a mile long. Another great option is the Fishing Pier – Virginia Beach Boardwalk loop, offering scenic views along the coast. Many trails in First Landing State Park, like the Bald Cypress Trail, are also considered easy and suitable for all skill levels.

Absolutely! Many urban trails in Virginia Beach are perfect for families. First Landing State Park, with its boardwalks and diverse ecosystems, offers easy walks like the Bald Cypress Trail. Mount Trashmore Park also provides a 1.9-mile loop around Lake Trashmore, which is popular for leisurely family strolls. These areas are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for children.

Virginia Beach offers several dog-friendly urban trails, but rules can vary by location. Many city parks and natural areas allow leashed dogs. For example, Mount Trashmore Park is a popular spot for dog walkers. Always check specific park regulations before heading out, especially in state parks or wildlife refuges, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Urban hikes in Virginia Beach offer a surprising array of natural beauty. You can explore cypress swamps, maritime forests, freshwater wetlands, and shoreline along the Chesapeake Bay in First Landing State Park. Trails like the Long Creek Trail are excellent for birdwatching, with sightings of osprey, egrets, and even eagles. At Pleasure House Point Natural Area, you'll find tidal marshes and oyster beds, while Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is home to over 300 species of wildlife.

For scenic views, the Virginia Beach Coastal loop via Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers expansive ocean vistas. First Landing State Park's Cape Henry Trail provides views of the bay, lush forests, and salt marshes. You can also find interesting landmarks like the King Neptune Statue along the boardwalk, or explore the unique landscape of Mount Trashmore Park.

Yes, Virginia Beach has several excellent urban loop trails. The Virginia Beach Coastal loop via Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a popular choice, offering a full circuit along the coast. Another option is the Virginia Beach to Lake Wesley & Marshview Park loop, which provides a longer, more varied experience. Mount Trashmore Park also features a 1.9-mile loop around Lake Trashmore.

Virginia Beach offers pleasant urban hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall generally provide the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Late fall and winter can be particularly scenic for exploring cypress swamps, as seen on the Bald Cypress Trail in First Landing State Park, when the trees display their unique colors. Summer can be warm and humid, so early mornings or late afternoons are best during those months.

The urban trails in Virginia Beach are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse natural landscapes, from maritime forests to coastal views, and the accessibility of these trails within the city. The well-maintained paths and opportunities for wildlife spotting are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects.

While many urban trails in Virginia Beach feature natural surfaces like sand, dirt, and gravel, you can find paved sections, especially along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Mount Trashmore Park also offers paved paths around Lake Trashmore, making it a good option for those seeking more accessible routes. Always check specific trail conditions if accessibility is a primary concern.

Parking is generally available at most major urban hiking destinations in Virginia Beach. State parks like First Landing State Park and False Cape State Park have designated parking areas, though fees may apply. City parks such as Mount Trashmore Park, Pleasure House Point Natural Area, and Stumpy Lake Natural Area also offer parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check the specific park's website for current parking information and any potential fees.

Public transport options to reach urban hiking trails in Virginia Beach vary. The city's public transit system, HRT (Hampton Roads Transit), serves various areas, and some routes may get you close to certain parks or trailheads. For specific state parks or more remote natural areas, public transport might be limited, and driving or ride-sharing services could be more convenient. Check HRT schedules and routes for the most up-to-date information.

Generally, permits are not required for casual urban hiking on most city trails and parks in Virginia Beach. However, state parks like First Landing State Park and False Cape State Park typically have entrance fees per vehicle or per person, which act as a permit for entry. Always check the official websites for these parks for current fee structures and any specific regulations, especially for activities beyond general hiking.