james river

dougiec24

Running hate trails around the James is such an awe inspiring event. I love how the trails intertwine with historical sites that formed our nation. Not only can you run these trails you can explore them by bike or canoe.

AJP34678

Flowing through the heart of the city there is always something to do on the James River. I have been going here all of my life. It is spectacular!!!

EvaLeisti

There's not much to this place, but it is beautiful, and just a great place to walk or to fish.There isn't really much in the way of facilities, no place to get food or bathrooms but its just a really nice natural place, a park.

Shendon

The reconstruction for a great distance along the James and the Canal makes this walks along the banks unique.

MackSandy

Richmond is blessed with/by the James, and not only because it means there is one place The Man can't build some Tower to Commerce on. It's like fresh air into the lungs. Downtown Richmond is struggling (to put it mildly), and it's sad to see all the money going down along the river, but at least it's tax base that will gradually allow central Richmond to recover. Meanwhile the river lets you breathe, literally and psychologically. Walk out to Belle Isle, for sure. Historically very important in lots of good and horrible ways (war prisons); peaceful now.

NKen

Whether you drive the road on the north or south side of the river between Richmond and Williamsburg and Jamestown you will be treated with more history than you can imagine. The historic plantations and the views of the river are great. Some of the plantations are still owned by members of the original families.When you connect the owner names to the original signers of the Declaration of Interdependence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. When you see homes and families that have been here since the late 16 and 17 hundreds it really opens a great view to our history.This area allows families to walk through some of our most important history.

Shelbeannie

Sections of the James River is so cool. The Buttermilk trail makes you feel like your in the mountains. The trail could take some time to do. Beware of the bikers. The rocks are neat to jump when water is low. Watch for snakes. Beaware of your surroundings. Use life Jackets on River. Under tow and currents are dangerous. Follow all rules set for you, they are there for a purpose. Please follow leave no trace. No chalk on rocks etc. its there for everyone to enjoy and we dont need the beauty to be taken away for others to enjoy.

sylvestineb

Loved the view of the river from Oregon Hill, watching the traffic on the bridges crossing over is very relaxing. Walking the rocks along the river gives a thrilling adventure of nature.

marslaca

Anyone with Virginia connections (and even those who do not) will enjoy the historical sites along the James south of Richmond. The plantation homes have been beautifully kept, and the guided tours are great. Everyone has favorites - mine are Berkeley and Shirley. Scenic drives and wonderful weather in the fall.

Y2482MFjanes

I always love a nature hikes and the river rolling over those fameous James river rocks. Bring a Camera to photograph Nature. But look out for strangers doing odd things .I suppose people have different ideas of what it means to " enjoy nature".I prefer the water,trees.

dirkn290

Kayak or run or bike but please experience the James River. Every time our family can get to the river we do.

lobsterabbit

Go for a walk across the pedestrian bridges, hit up Brown Isle, go see the historic landmarks along the river, take a picnic, bring a dog, Go down Pony Pastures, jog the paths, take a tube ride for a couple hours. How could you not rate this a 5?? :)

bstrvl55711

Did a 6 mile or so loop. Parked at Reedy Creek (James River Park System on Google Maps). Ran west to the bridge, crossed over, ran east to the other bridge, went through Belle Isle and back.The run was enjoyable at 9AM with only a few folks on the trail itself, and a few more near Belle Isle. I did find myself off trail a number of times. There are green ribbons to mark the path, but a few intersections where you have to guess. Also found getting to the foot bridge for Belle Isle (North Side) confusing, as there is a Private Property sign right near the entrance. Actually there were a few of these throughout right near the path, making it hard to stay on track.I think they need to improve the trail markings.Also note that much of the trail is a true trail. And when it is wet out, the few sections with an almost cobblestone path become extremely slick.

Honiedo21

This was not a white water trip,it was more like a float trip. You know if there are kids swimming next to your raft, the water is not moving.

susanhT3197BT

The James River is the heart of the city. When we visited the National Civil War Center at Tredegar, we did the Canal Walk on Brown's Island and saw kayakers and swimmers in the river. The next day we took a tour by canal boat from the eastern end and saw some of what we'd seen on our walk plus a whole lot more--and learned more of the history of the canal. I'm so glad Richmond redeveloped the riverfront for recreation.