Trails & Outdoor Routes

With paths and trails just minutes from the Downtown Mall, and terrain that offers everything from mountain biking to overnight paddling trips, our little piece of Virginia is incredibly diverse in its outdoor recreation offerings.

Find popular trails and outdoor routes in Charlottesville and Albemarle County using the interactive map below. Or search for a route based on how you want to hit the trail – by foot, bike, or with a paddle.

Hiking Trails Charlottesville is known for its proximity to Shenandoah National Park but you can hike miles of beautiful trails right here in town and surrounding Albemarle County! Learn More

Mountain Biking Routes Charlottesville offers mountain biking both in the heart of the city and beyond it. The Rivanna Trail is a 20+ mile course that circumvents the city and offers a gorgeous ride past the Rivanna River. Preddy Creek Park, just north… Learn More

Road & Gravel Routes There are a number of road and gravel routes for visitors who want to explore Charlottesville as well as neighboring Crozet, Scottsville, and scenic Albemarle County. Try the Charlottesville Sites Tour for a tour of the city or the Western… Learn More

Greenways Charlottesville and Albemarle County's greenways offer a range of walks suitable for visitors of all abilities. Don't miss the iconic Saunders-Monticello trail — an ADA-accessible route that ends at the Monticello Visitors Center. Or opt for the chance to spot… Learn More

Waterways Charlottesville and Albemarle County are home to two rivers: the scenic Rivanna River and mighty James River. Both offer opportunities to kayak, canoe, tube, or SUP. If you're looking for a more laid back experience, look for calmer bodies of… Learn More

Explore Popular Trails & Routes

Click on the colored routes below to learn more about some popular spots to hike, bike and paddle.

Within the city of Charlottesville, you can bike, hike and jog along paved trails and nature trails, including the 20+ mile Rivanna Trail loop. When you head into surrounding Albemarle County, you'll find 80 miles of maintained trails from the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, up Highway 29, and down to Scottsville.

These are just a snapshot of the most popular routes here in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Find more information and guidance to help you plan your outdoor adventure by using the resources below.

Best Hikes in the Charlottesville Area

There's no shortage of stunning scenery in the Charlottesville area and hiking is a great way to take it all in.

Learn More

6 Reasons to Hit the Trail for the Loop de’Ville Festival

The Rivanna Trail is one of Charlottesville and Albemarle County’s most unique outdoor resources. The 20+ mile trail forms a loop that circles the city, providing a quick get-away from the buzz of the town to the peace and quiet…

Learn More

Get Out on the Water: Plan a Paddling Adventure in Charlottesville & Albemarle County

Charlottesville and Albemarle County are the perfect places for your paddling vacation with plenty of options to get out on the water by way of rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Bring your own kayak, paddle board, or canoe or visit one…

Learn More

Find Your Next Big Catch in Charlottesville & Albemarle County

Diverse fishing options abound in Charlottesville and Albemarle County, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Learn More

Land Acknowledgment

We acknowledge that the land we recreate on and refer to as Charlottesville and Albemarle County is the ancestral lands of the Monocan Nation and its people. The Monacan Indians have lived here for over 10,000 years and continue to live here to this day. We acknowledge their presence as well as their current and historical contributions to this region.