The Rivanna Trail

The Rivanna Trail is a 20-mile rustic "urban wilderness" hiking trail built and maintained by volunteers that encircles the City of Charlottesville. The Trail meanders through forested buffers that protect the City's streams and rivers. It serves as a community-wide resource for play, exercise, relaxation, and nature-related recreation and education. The Trail passes through many neighborhoods and connects six City parks. It is open for hiking and jogging from dawn to dusk. Because most of the Trail passes over private property, hikers are asked to stay on the trail and to keep dogs on leashes at all times. Trail Guides are available at Visitors Centers, at local outdoor and running stores, and online at our website.

Best parking access for visitors is in Riverview Park at the eastern end of Chesapeake Street, Azalea Park off Old Lynchburg, Jordan Park at 1607 6th Street SE, and Quarry Park at 427 Quarry Road. Visitors can also look for our dark green Rivanna Trail trailhead signs at most road crossings.

Click here for more local hikes.