6 Beautiful Running Routes Around the City
Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k is just around the corner, and in addition to the YMCA 10k Training Team, Richmond offers plenty of other outdoor opps for you to venture out on new grounds. This guide rounds up some of our personal favorite running or walking spots around the city.
— by the RVAx team
Canal Walk
It’s a route on the shorter side, but it’s a must-see for any Richmond runner! The Canal Walk is 1.25 miles one way (2.5 miles out-and-back), and it’s a tree-lined, concrete path along the waterfront.
You’ll see a whole host of murals, bridges, historical landmarks, and downtown architecture along this running route — and this trail is also lit at night, for those nocturnal athletes among us.
Location: 1512 Canal Walk
Virginia Capital Trail
This 51.7-mile stretch of paved trail runs from Great Shiplock Park (across from Bottom’s Up) all the way to Williamsburg. Runners should note that there are some rolling hills along the way, which can add a little extra intensity to your workout! You can check out the complete trail map here.
In Richmond, the popular stretch between Great Shiplock Park and Rocketts Landing has been much busier than other areas — so if you are looking for a calmer area, try starting from an entrance point in Varina. Dorey Park and Four Mile Creek Trailhead are both great options.
Location: Great Shiplock Park, 2803 Dock St
Forest Hill Park Trail
This 3.2-mile loop is the perfect 5k trail. The trail loop is accessible from the JRPS from Reedy Creek parking lot by heading through the tunnel under Riverside Drive, then follow the gravel road south and cross over the concrete pipe to follow the loop counter-clockwise or enter the trail at Riverside Dr to follow the loop clockwise. You can also enter from the park’s parking lot at New Kent and 42nd St.
For a longer run, some people combine it with Buttermilk, North Bank, and Belle Isle trails.
This trail is shared by bikes, so make sure you stay aware!
Joseph Bryan Park
This huge historic park in Richmond’s Northside boasts ample green space filled with gardens and ponds, along with a 3.4-mile paved running loop.
There are also a variety of off-road trails to choose from here, if your joints are getting a little tired of running on pavement.
Location: 4308 Hermitage Rd
James River Park System Trail Loop
One of the most popular local trail loops is the Buttermilk Trail connecting to the North Bank Trail in the James River Park System. Altogether, this connected loop comes to about 5.25-miles, depending where you choose to start and finish!
If you want to follow one of our favorite routes: Starting on the north shore, you can use the Belle Isle Suspension Bridge at Tredegar St. to make your way to the Belle Isle trailhead, then head south to connect with the Buttermilk Trail. You’ll follow that for 2.5 miles west along the river before turning right onto Boulevard Bridge, where you’ll connect to the North Bank trail — which will bring you 2.75 miles east along the river, to the Lee Bridge.
Location: 615 Tredegar St
Maymont
Don’t let the beautiful gardens, ponds, and landscaping fool you: The 3.2-mile paved route at Maymont packs a punch! There are some inclines here that make for a challenging workout. Even more so if you connect with the 1-mile VITA course at nearby Byrd Park. Thankfully, there are plenty of benches were you can stop to have a seat and catch your breath along the way.
Location: 1700 Hampton St
