Dog-Friendly Trails in Richmond
With summer just around the corner, it’s time to start getting outside and exploring your local trails with Fido! Shake off those winter blues with some spring sunshine and blooming nature! Lucky for you, Richmond is home to about a hundred trails within 10 miles of the city, destined for you and your fur baby to try out. We rounded up our top four favorite routes from AllTrails.com, a fantastic resource for pet parents to inform themselves beforehand. Keep reading to find your new favorite hiking hot spot!
Buttermilk Trail ~ James River Park
4.5-mile out-and-back, 410 ft elevation gain
With almost 1,000 positive reviews, the Buttermilk trail is a local favorite! This moderately difficult trail takes about two hours to complete, encountering other hikers, runners, bird watchers, and mountain bikers. This path has impressive views and wildlife; bring some binoculars! Ensure Fido is leashed to avoid any collisions with other trail users.
Forest Hill Park Trail ~ Forest Hill Park
2.7-mile loop, 278 ft elevation gain
Located across the James River, Forest Hill Park is a scenic, one-hour loop with beautiful wildflowers along the way! The Forest Hill Trail has a 4.5 rating with over 1,000 reviews! This is considered a moderate-difficulty trail; however, it is very popular with walkers, hikers, and mountain biking.
Larus Park ~ Larus Park
2.6-mile loop, 269 ft elevation gain
Next, Larus Park circle is another excellent loop within a 106-acre wooded park! The path can be a little wonky, so pay attention to the main marked trails. Larus Park is super popular with pet parents, as most of the trail photos are of them with their dogs, but the path is also frequently used by hikers and bike riders.
Belle Isle Trails ~ James River Park
1.2-mile loop, 88 ft elevation gain
If you liked the Buttermilk trail but want a shorter distance, check out the Belle Isle trail! This unique trail is located on Belle Island, a notch into the James River, with incredible viewpoints and water-side walking! The walk starts with an intriguing suspended bridge walk with gorgeous river views.
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