Virginia

Looking for the best running in Virginia? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Virginia. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Running Spots in and near Virginia

  • Chesapeake, Virginia

    Catch a Sunset at the Jordan Bridge

    4.0
    2 mi / 200 ft gain
    The South Norfolk Jordan Bridge spans the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River connecting Chesapeake and Portsmouth, Virginia. Located beneath the bridge's abutments on the Chesapeake side is the Elizabeth River Park.Looking to stretch your legs? The park includes many amenities like a paved tr...
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  • Arlington, Virginia

    Mt. Vernon Trail

    5.0
    17.8 mi / 515 ft gain
    Start your adventure at the Teddy Roosevelt Island parking area and head southbound towards Mt. Vernon. You'll be riding next to the Potomac the entire time, with great views of the National Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and the Memorial Bridge. The ride is as long as you want t...
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  • Massanutten, Virginia

    Kaylor's Knob Trail

    4.0
    3.56 mi / 381 ft gain
    Kaylor's Knob Trail in Massanutten, Virginia is a moderately challenging hiking trail that spans approximately 3.56 miles. The trail is marked by a steady incline, making it a suitable choice for intermediate hikers. The trailhead is easily accessible, located near the Massanutten Resort. The tr...
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  • Falls Church, Virginia

    Bike the W&OD Trail

    45 mi
    The Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) trail stretches through northern Virginia and is a great spot for bike riding, running, or walking. The trail is paved, well maintained, and wide enough for traffic in both directions. There are also a couple breweries along the way that you can make a f...
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  • Onemo, Virginia

    Beach Day at Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve

    4.0
    I discovered Mathews, VA while watching Beachfront Bargain Hunt on HGTV! It’s a quiet county close to the coast.  There is another beach in Mathews county, but this one is my favorite! It is a beautiful beach and it’s always been quiet the times I have been.  https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural-...
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  • Fairfax Station, Virginia

    Explore Burke Lake in Fairfax

    4.0
    4.7 mi / 0 ft gain
    Burke Lake Park has something for everyone. Whether you enjoy trail running, hiking, fishing, canoeing, Frisbee golf, or just having a picnic with your family, you can do it all at Burke Lake. Those who want to be active or exercise can run, hike or biket the 4.7 mile trail that circles the entir...
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  • Luray, Virginia

    Mary's Rock via Appalachian Trail

    5.0
    3.36 mi / 1214 ft gain
    If you're driving south on Skyline Drive, park in the lot on the right side of Skyline Drive immediately after you cross Route 211/Thornton Gap entrance. If you're driving north on Skyline Drive, the lot will be on the left side immediately before the Thornton Gap entrance. The trailhead is at t...
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  • Yorktown, Virginia

    Hike through Historic Yorktown

    2.3
    2.5 mi / 59 ft gain
    This is a fantastic hike through the history of the early United States. And one with many interactive exhibits and recreation opportunities. From the Visitor Center, head onto the path towards the Yorktown Historic District. The historic district begins at the Dudley Digges House. Buildings that...
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  • Roseland, Virginia

    Camp at Devil’s Backbone Basecamp

    5.0
    This place has it all : a bomb fire pit, live music, distillery, restaurant, 48 taps, mountain views, and more!  Not to mention, it’s in a great location for exploring. It’s close to tons of breweries, wineries, and cideries, it’s just a few miles from the Appalachian trail, and close to Shenando...
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  • Norfolk, Virginia

    Elizabeth River Trail

    4.0
    9.14 mi / 203 ft gain
    Elizabeth River Trail is a point-to-point trail that takes you by a river located near Norfolk, Virginia.
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  • Manassas, Virginia

    Trail Run at Bull Run

    5.0
    4 mi
    Great spot for a run! Very accessible for those in the DC region.  A good starting point is the Henry Hill Visitor Center. If you want to avoid any crowds, start early.  From the Henry Hill Visitor Center, you can't really go wrong (as far as direction is concerned) since most trails can be linke...
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  • Alexandria, Virginia

    Run or Bike the Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve

    5.0
    3 mi
    Start your adventure at the Belle Haven Parking area then head down the Dyke Marsh Trail. To add on additional distance, head south down the Mt. Vernon Trail for more views, well maintained paths, and even some sitting areas. You'll find boardwalks that take you right across the marsh, so keep an...
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  • Virginia Beach, Virginia

    Bald Cypress Trail

    4.0
    1.72 mi / 26 ft gain
    Bald Cypress Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Virginia Beach, Virginia.
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  • Boyce, Virginia

    Trail Run the AT in the G.R. Thompson

    7 mi / 900 ft gain
    Take Fire Trail Road and start your run at the parking area (labeled in the map). The trail puts you directly onto the AT, where you will turn right (southbound) to start the run (or hike). You'll stay on the AT for roughly 3.5 miles down to the Trillium Trail Parking area. At that point, turn ar...
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  • Williamsburg, Virginia

    Waller Mill Reservoir & Tower Trail

    4.0
    2.64 mi / 213 ft gain
    Waller Mill Reservoir & Tower Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Williamsburg, Virginia.
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  • Williamsburg, Virginia

    Bike Jamestown Island

    5.1 mi / 45 ft gain
    The trail is open to cyclists and pedestrians, but does share the road with some vehicle traffic. The speed limit is slow and often there is little traffic. There also is no parking at the actual trail head, so one must begin at the Visitor Center Parking lot. The trail will show off the natural ...
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