Make sure to also check official sites for any updates on trail conditions, parking, seasonal closure, or forecast changes. Weather around the mountains can shift quickly!
These trails are perfect for you and your four-legged hiking partner! Remember to be mindful of leash rules and bring enough water for both of you.
The Saunders-Monticello Trail, now completely dog-friendly as of March 2025, is a very manageable 4 miles out-and-back that winds towards Monticello through native hardwood forest.
The Blue Hole Out-and-Back trail is 3 miles roundtrip and one of the most popular hikes in the area. There are several stream crossings along the way, so pack waterproof shoes.
The Rivanna Trail is an in-town network of trails with multiple short and shaded segments. We recommend starting at Riverview Park.
Darden Towe Park has a number of natural trails along the Rivanna River and a nearby dog park.
Chris Greene Lake Park is a favorite for four-legged friends, with a dedicated dog beach (with water access) and lakeside trails.
Though steep, Humpback Rocks is dog-friendly and a Blue Ridge Parkway favorite with incredible summit views in under 2 miles.
Turk Mountain is a roughly 2.4 miles hike with beautiful summit views to the west. This hike is less crowded and perfect for dogs.
If you’re looking for a laid-back adventure that the whole family can enjoy, you’ve come to the right place! These trails offer just the right mix of nature, safety, and fun for all ages.
The largest park in the city, Pen Park features a 1.5 mile-long, paved trail along the Rivanna River. It has a playground, picnic shelters, and is also home to Bennett’s Village, an all-abilities play space.
The 4.3-mile Saunders-Monticello Trail is shaded, scenic, and peaceful for all ages. A maximum grade of 5% keeps the gravel/boardwalk path accessible to strollers and those in wheelchairs.
Chris Greene Lake features 3 miles of gentle, lakeside trails, swimming beaches (seasonal), and a nearby playground (ages 5-12).
Riverview Park has a large, paved parking area, playground, benches and an open field, making it ideal for picnickers and families. It also connects to the Rivanna Trail and is a hotspot for birding in Charlottesville -- a fun family activity!
Preddy Creek Park's trail system is perfect for choose-your-own adventures, with 16 miles of intertwining multiuse trails of varying length and difficulty.
Foxhaven Trails is one of Charlottesville’s hidden gems, with a gentle kid-friendly trail that loops through a meadow and wooded area. Go there in the spring and summer for beautiful wildflowers.
Step back in time while exploring these trails – where history and nature come together for a fun outdoor experience!
Ivy Creek Natural Area features seven miles of trails traversing a mix of upland woods, pine stands, fields, streams, and shoreline. Each trail offers a unique look at the preserve’s history or wildlife. Kids may enjoy their Little Naturalists program (ages 3-5) and everyone is welcome to explore The Barn, which features hands-on interactive displays.
Head out the Highland Rustic Trails for a collection of easy loops that wind through the pasture and wooded hillside of James Monroe’s Highland.
The Saunders-Monticello Trail is an excellent route for history buffs, as this trail winds its way towards Monticello and back in a very manageable four miles.
The 4,273-foot-long Blue Ridge Tunnel was constructed between 1850 and 1858 and runs through Afton Mountain in neighboring Nelson County. At the time of its operation in 1858, it was the longest railroad tunnel in North America. The crushed gravel trail is 4.5-mile (roundtrip) with parking on either end of the tunnel. Bring comfortable shoes you don’t mind getting wet and a headlamp or flashlight, as the tunnel is dark.
Head to Sugar Hollow Reservoir for a 3 mile out-and-back to Blue Hole, a small swimming hole that’s popular amongst locals. This hike has some water crossings, so bring appropriate shoes.
The Rivanna River Trail runs adjacent to the Rivanna River, with several spots to go for a swim, put in a kayak/tube, or just dip your toes. This 4-mile section starts from Riverview Park and has access at multiple points for swimming (and even a rope swing).
The Patricia Ann Byrom Forest Preserve Park is a 600-acre park with multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The 4.4 mile Little Flat Mountain Loop is steep, but offers beautiful mountain views as a result of the elevation.
A 219-acre park with gorgeous views of the trees and mountains, especially in the fall.
A 520-acre park with 5 miles of trails, a seasonal swimming beach, and a playground.
The Saunders-Monticello Trail is a 2.1 mile ADA accessible path that connects to the Visitor Center at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. The trail has a max grade of 5% and transitions from pavement to crushed gravel to wooden boardwalk as it meanders through the woods.
The portion of Old Mills Trail that runs through Darden Towe Park is paved asphalt and runs parallel to the Rivanna River. The Park also has ample parking and a wheelchair-accessible playground.
In addition to a .5-mile paved loop, Pen Park is also home to Bennett’s Village, a developing all-abilities play space. The play space currently has an accessible tree house and will one day expand to cover three acres.
The Rivanna River Trail is a 4-mile city-managed and handicapped-accessible paved trail that starts from Riverview Park and runs along the Rivanna River.
For the most accessible visit to the Blue Ridge Tunnel, start at the East Trailhead in Afton. It has a larger lot for easier parking and a flat approach to the main trail, which is made of crushed gravel and is fully ADA accessible. The East Trailhead to the East Tunnel Portal is .63 miles and has a max grade of 5.3% for 150 feet. The tunnel itself has an average grade of 1.3%
Charlotte Y. Humphris Park offers 1.5 miles of paved trails with a small shelter and seating.
Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau Staff
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