With spring just around the corner, the beautiful weather is coming back to Chesapeake. Get the entire family out to enjoy the nice weather and some good exercise by hitting one of the following bike paths in and around Chesapeake.
1. Indian River Park
Indian River Park is a 90-acre getaway in the heart of urban Chesapeake. One of the park’s unique features is that Military Highway splits it. Both the northwest and southwest side of the park have biking trails that will take you through forests of large, mature pines and hardwoods. The southwest side of the park also has a bike trail with changes in elevation that are ideal for mountain biking and a series of jumps for those who like extreme adventure.
2. Dismal Swamp Canal Trail
Don’t get scared away by the name; Dismal Swamp Canal Trail actually offers amazing scenery, unique history, and chances to spot some of Virginia’s native wildlife. The paved canal trail is actually an old section of Virginia State Route 17. It’s now an 11-mile multi-use trail that connects to Deep Creek Park and is perfect for all ages. While you’re on the trail, keep your eyes open, and you might just spot turtles, lizards, snakes, frogs, squirrels, foxes, deer, beavers, river otters, and more.
3. Oak Grove Lake Park
The 65-acre Oak Grove Lake Park is an excellent place to explore forests and wetlands on your bike. There’s a 1.5-mile multi-use biking trail that runs the perimeter of the 65-acre lake. Along with beautiful views of the water, there are also opportunities to spot wildlife in the park. With benches and picnic tables scattered on the trail, you can pack a picnic and find the perfect spot to enjoy a lunch outside. The park also has fishing platforms, a play area, and six outdoor fitness stations.
4. Northwest River Park
The 763-acre Northwest River Park offers many biking trails for a range of skill levels. Deer Island Trail is a 0.75-mile trail that starts at the campground, runs across Deer Island, and ends at the Northwest River. It’s an easy trail that’s good for any member of the family. For a little more challenge, try the 1.25-mile Shuttle Trail. This trail starts at the Northern Terminal and runs along the creek in the park. It eventually connects with the Deer Island Trail to end on the bank of the Northwest River.
5. False Cape State Park
For some truly one-of-a-kind biking trails, head just outside of Chesapeake to False Cape State Park. Located on a barrier spit between the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay, False Cape State Park has numerous biking trails that go from easy to difficult. For those looking for a challenge, Sand Ridge Trail is one of the more demanding trails in the park. It stretches for 6.2 miles and covers some sandy terrain that’s hard to manage.
Biking one of these wonderful trails in and around Chesapeake is a great way to explore the area and enjoy some time outside.
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Image via Flickr by FamiljenHelsingborg
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