If you’re an avid outdoorsman or just love a casual hike, there’s nothing more exciting than finding the next new trail to blaze. One great place to look is Norfolk, Virginia. Although it’s not known as a hotspot for hikers, it has a surprising amount of trails that provide good exercise and amazing scenery. The next time you get an itch to go hiking, head to these Norfolk area trails.
Elizabeth River Trail – Atlantic City Spur
Although this trail doesn’t take you through tons of remote wilderness, the Elizabeth River Trail offers 9.5 miles of paved walkways that wind their way along the Elizabeth River. Along the way, you’ll get to see some of the local maritime wildlife including ducks, seagulls, cormorants, and skimmers. The trail is easily traversable for people of all fitness levels, including children.
Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve
Just a short drive from Norfolk, you’ll find Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve, which offers hiking and kayaking. The trail is easy and spans only 1.8 miles as it encircles Lake Ballard, and it is full of local wildlife. Some of the creatures you’ll encounter are raccoons, eagles, deer, woodpeckers, and pelicans. The preserve is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cape Henry Trail
The Cape Henry Trail in nearby Virginia Beach offers 7.5 miles of paved trail for you to explore. Throughout the journey, you’ll work your way through heavily forested areas, giving you a first-hand look at their enormous size and grandeur. Wildlife on the trail includes ospreys, foxes, deer, and great blue herons. If you don’t want to hike the length of the trail, there are numerous exits into urban areas that feature shops and restaurants.
Indian River Park Trail
As the name would imply, the Indian River Park Trail curves along the banks of the Indian River. Unlike other trails in the area, however, this one offers steeper inclines that make it a more brisk hike; still, many with weaker fitness levels can still traverse it with a few breaks. If you want the ultimate challenge, hike one of the many BMX ramps throughout the park. Most of these ramps, used for stunts by BMX bikers, provide a challenge as they rise to almost eight feet in the air. If that doesn’t sound like fun, just stick to the rest of the 1.6-mile loop.
Osmanthus Trail
The Osmanthus Trail is a must-do hike in Norfolk for many reasons. Perhaps the most exciting aspect is that it’s full of local wildflowers that bloom throughout the year. Aside from this awesome view, there are also chances to learn about some of the foliage that’s indigenous to the area. The loop itself stretches 3.2 miles, and the terrain changes from flat to steep, making it somewhat of a challenge. Dogs are also allowed on the Osmanthus Trail, although they must have a leash.
Although Norfolk isn’t known for the most beautiful hikes in the country, it does have some great opportunities if you know where to look. When the weather permits, head out to one of these picturesque trails.
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