12 Must-Do Hikes Within 2 Hours of Richmond
This Guide is brought to you by Brian Bell, founder of Keep Virginia Cozy.
Keep Virginia Cozy’s mission is to protect wilderness and inspire all Virginians to care for our wild places. They contribute to better protection, stewardship and restoration of our public lands, preserving our rich natural legacy for current and future generations.
These hikes are the getaway you never knew you needed.
With the Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian Trail and more, Virginia is the place to be for outdoor lovers. Check out some of our favorite trails that are a close distance to the city.
Pocahontas State Park
Located only 20 minutes south of the city in Chesterfield County, Pocahontas State Park boasts 7,000+ acres of pristine forest in Virginia’s Piedmont Region. Ideal for scenic viewing, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and camping, you’ll find the short journey to this park well worth it.
Location: 10301 State Park Rd, Chesterfield
Humpback Rocks
Don’t let the 1.0 mile to the top fool you — this short hike will definitely make you work! In that short time, you’ll gain almost 1,000 feet. At the top, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley and Shenandoah National Park — the perfect hike to take any time of year.
Location: Milepost 5.8 on Blue Ridge Parkway
Emerald Pond (Massanutten Mountain)
This low mile ridge hike straddles the peak of Massanutten Mountain. Wonderful views of the Shenandoah valley to the west as you traverse pine floored forests and rocky outcroppings! The hike ends at the aptly named Emerald Pond, a spring fed pond that sits in the shadow of Massanutten Summit.
Want to see the brightest stars you’ve ever seen? Be sure to check this gem out in the fall!
Location: 4225 Peak Dr, Massanutten
Raven's Roost
Although it’s not considered a hike, the Raven’s Roost overlook is sure to excite. With expansive views of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains and the delightful smell of fresh mountain pines lingering in the air, this spot will leave a lasting impression on anyone who ventures out to see it.
Location: Milepost 10.7 on Blue Ridge Parkway
Rose River Falls (SNPS)
This 6-mile loop, in the central district of Shenandoah National Park, offers views of Rose River Falls (pictured) and Dark Hollow Falls! This hike is in the back country of Shenandoah, and it is highly likely you’ll see a bear or three while hiking it.
Dip your feet in cool mountain water to re-energize your hiking legs and listen closely for the sounds of the leaves letting go and floating down the river.
Location: Skyline Drive, Stanley
Blackrock Summit (SNPS)
This 2 mile out and back trail, in the southern section of Shenandoah National Park, offers views for miles and miles! Keep your eyes peeled for snakes in the summer, as the rocks are a wonderful place for them to warm up!
Location: Milepost 84.8 on the Appalachian Trail
Upper Falls/Hone Quarry (GWNF)
This short but rewarding trail to hone quarry falls is located in the George Washington National Forest, just west of Harrisonburg Virginia, and is waiting for you to explore it! Be sure to bring a snack or packed lunch so you can enjoy a picnic by these stair stepping falls!
Location: Dayton, VA
Turk Mountain
For those looking to get their blood pumping, hike Turk Mountain. The 10 mile circuit hike in Shenandoah National Park boasts views that are well worth the work to get there. Pack plenty of water and be ready for stunning views, including a few small waterfalls!
Location: Southern District of Shenandoah National Park
Douthat State Park
Douthat State Park, over in Millsboro VA, is home to miles and miles of trails. Easy to challenging, you decide the adventure level! If you’re a leaf-peeper and want to see maple and birch in all their glory, head over a few weeks before Thanksgiving for the forests prime color display.
Location: 14239 Douthat State Park Rd, Millboro
Jone's Run/Doyle's River
A serene 6.5 mile roundtrip hike in Shenandoah National Park, Jone’s Run/Doyle’s River is a great way to escape the city life. Make sure you don’t mind getting your feet a little wet as this trail includes multiple stream crossings.
Location: Southern District of Shenandoah National Park
Old Rag Loop (SNPS)
This strenuous loop, in Shenandoah’s central district, is undoubtedly the most popular hike in the park. So, be prepared for other humans on the trail! Dogs are not allowed on this hike, as the rock scramble at the end would be too dangerous for them. Pack a lot of water (more than you think you need) and give yourself enough time to make it back before dark!
Location: Nethers Rd, Etlan
Patricia Ann Byrom Forest Preserve
This high solitude hike is nestled away in Crozet, VA, only a short hour and a half drive from Richmond. Weaving you through old and new growth forests, you will enjoy a beautiful culmination of wildlife meeting from the mountains to the Piedmont on this 4.3 mile hike.
Location: Crozet
Please always practice “Leave No Trace” principles while exploring these wonderful areas and remember: These places are for EVERYONE!
If you’re interested in learning more about Leave No Trace, or how you can give back to these areas so they will be around for generations to come, head on over to the Keep Virginia Cozy Instagram and Facebook pages.
Bottom line: Get outside. Be safe. Be kind. Smile at strangers. Pick up litter. KEEP VIRGINIA COZY!
Thanks to Brian Bell of Keep Virginia Cozy for contributing this guide!