Great Runs in Richmond, VA.
Note: For the Full Guide to Running in Richmond, see the GR Website
Richmond, the capital of Virginia, is a historic city situated along the fall line of the James River. The village sprang up as a hub of the Powhatan Confederacy, and later played an important role as the site of Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty or give me death” speech, and as the capital of the Confederate States of America in the American Civil War. Today, Richmond’s economy is a powerhouse of finance, government, and law, attracting traveling business professionals and tourists alike. One thing we love about running in Richmond is the variety and the proximity/overlapping of some of its best routes.
James River Park Trails and Belle Isle. The most popular running spot in Richmond, with waterside trails and pedestrian bridges. Well-groomed 2–10 mile options along the James River.
Canal Walk. Pleasant ~1.25 mile (one way) path along the Richmond Canal system. Run out to the T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge for views — especially great at sunrise or sunset.
Virginia Capital Trail. 50 plus miles of running on a paved multi-use path stretching all the way to Williamsburg/ Jamestown. The Richmond end of the path is accessible from I-95 near Great Shiplock Park.
Monument Ave. Fun sidewalked run with monuments commemorating historic Richmond figures. An out and back through the Historic District is about 5 km, but it’s possible to continue.
Maymont Park. Run the grounds of this gorgeous Victorian estate with mansion, Japanese botanical gardens, and a ~3 mile paved path with some challenging hills. Options to connect with other routes.
Byrd Park. The 1 mile packed gravel VITA course is a favorite for time-strapped runners in need of a quick workout or people who love to do circuit-style runs (complete with strength training equipment).
Joseph Bryan Park. Historic green space with a 3.4 mile paved path around ponds, forest, azealia gardens, and playing fields. Add-ons include dirt singletrack paths like the one along Jordan’s Branch.
Cary Street and Grove Ave. Richmond has some lovely residential areas featuring pretty, long streets where you can run a straight shot on the sidewalk for many miles. A loop is about 6 miles.
University of Richmond. There is great running on this classic open air campus, with beautiful brick buildings, manicured courtyards, and the lovely Westhampton Lake. A loop around the trails is 1 mile.
Pocahontas State Park. The 64 miles of bike paths, double track fire roads, and dirt trails are definitely worth the 30 minute drive from Richmond. Popular trails are the Old Mill bike path and the Beaver Lake loop.
For the full running guide to Richmond, see greatruns.com.
