Cape Henry Trail
This 6.1-mile trail (one-way) is the longest trail within First Landing State Park, stretching from the park’s northern border on Shore Drive to the southernmost entrance off Atlantic Avenue at 64th Street.
Accessible to both hikers and bicyclists, the Cape Henry Trail passes through an old-style beach neighborhood where saltbox-style homes sit adjacent to contemporary renos. The flat trail, shaded in places by pines and live oaks, is also perfect for bird watchers, as you may see osprey, egrets or even a bald eagle.
On the north end of the park, hook up with the 0.4-mile Live Oak Trail when the Cape Henry Trail terminates, then cross Shore Drive to reach the visitor center, a camp store and an on-site grill. Nosh on hot dogs, burgers, fries, and cheesy nachos for lunch. You may even want to pick up some cool souvenirs to remember your adventure.
Sand Ridge Trail
False Cape State Park is home to more than 20 hiking and biking trails, which vary in length and difficulty level. Consider this your chance to explore one of the last untouched gems on the East Coast! The longest and most challenging trail in the park is the Sand Ridge Trail, which is 6.2 miles (one-way) and takes cyclists from near the entrance of the park all the way to the North Carolina border. To access this trail, you’ll first need to pedal four miles from Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to False Cape State Park by way of the East Dike Trail or West Dike Trail.
Make note: The closer you get to the border, the looser the sand will be, making it a challenge to navigate. A fat tire bike would work best on this tricky terrain to help you make it all the way to North Carolina. (For fat tire bike rentals, check out Ocean Rentals Ltd in Sandbridge, which is five miles north of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.)
Along the way, make a brief detour onto the Wash Woods Trail to explore the Wash Woods historic site, once a vibrant community settled by survivors of Atlantic Ocean shipwrecks. Today, a church steeple and cemetery are poignant reminders of the area’s past.
Pungo Loop Trail
The Pungo bike loop is a favorite among locals thanks to limited traffic and unbeatable views of vineyards, strawberry fields and waterways. This loop provides all two-wheeled fanatics, from novice riders to seasoned cyclists, with a pleasant ride across rural landscapes. Many riders start and end this nearly 21-mile ride at Red Mill Commons. From here, it’s nearly six miles to reach the top of the loop on the quiet roads of Pungo.
Bring plenty of water, but don’t worry about packing lunch. There are stops on the way where you can re-fuel at mid-day, such as Back Bay Market and Deli and Blue Pete’s Restaurant. As you pedal, wave to the horses at Cedar Hall Farms and Briarwood Farm. Henley Farms is worth a stop for fresh, seasonal pick-your-own fruits and vegetables.
Pungo Ferry Landing Park, which boasts views of the North Landing River, is another great place to pick up this paved loop on country roads and sidewalks.
Important note: It’s best to download the GPS map of this route to your phone since it is not marked.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk
At three miles in length, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk was built with cyclists in mind, so gear up and set off on two wheels. No bike? No problem! Rent a bike from Cherie’s Bicycle & Blade Rentals, which has 14 locations along the Boardwalk. You’ll find all types of bikes too, including beach cruisers, tandem bikes, three-wheelers and surrey bikes. (They also rent in-line skates.)
A dedicated bike lane along the Boardwalk allows cyclists to pedal smoothly and swiftly, without worrying about strolling pedestrians, particularly during the busy summer months.
When pedaling the iconic Boardwalk from end to end, there’s a lot to see, do, drink and eat. Snap photos with the beloved 34-foot-tall King Neptune statue at 31st Street, as well as the six-foot-tall Naked Warrior statue at 38th Street, which pays tribute to Navy SEALs. At 2nd Street, Grommet Island Park is a favorite with littles.
There are plenty of delicious restaurants up and down the boardwalk too, like Chix on the Beach at 7th Street and Tautog’s Restaurant at 23rd Street.
Independence Boulevard Trail
Fasten your helmet and set off on the Independence Boulevard Trail, a 3.8-mile paved multi-use path that is broken up into sections, both of which run alongside S. Independence Boulevard. The northern section starts at Green Meadows Drive, near Mount Trashmore Park. This section ends at Lynnhaven Parkway, enabling riders to pick up the Lynnhaven Parkway Trail.
The southern section of the Independence Boulevard Trail runs along S. Independence Boulevard between Salem Road and Indian River Road. The route passes through Honey Bee Golf Club before ending at Stumpy Lake, a 278-acre lake with a raised overlook that’s part of Stumpy Lake Natural Area. Both stretches feature casual restaurants and convenience stores, so it’s a cinch to grab a quick bite to keep your energy up on your ride.
Lynnhaven Parkway Trail
The Lynnhaven Parkway Trail is more than six miles in length and runs alongside Lynnhaven Parkway, with end points at Lishelle Place and Steward Drive. Many riders opt to park at Lynnhaven Mall and pick up the trail near Lishelle Place.
The trail is flat and paved, so it’s suitable for riders of all stripes, including novice riders and families.
Along this suburban route, you’re never far from fast food restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, and dollar stores when you want to re-fuel or take a break from the ride.
The Lynnhaven Parkway Trail can also be accessed seamlessly by way of other favorite suburban trails in the area, including the Independence Boulevard Trail, the Salem Road Trail and the Rosemont Road Trail.
Lake Trashmore Loop
The 1.9-mile Lake Trashmore Loop Trail is a paved walking and biking path that encircles much of Mount Trashmore Park, including Lake Trashmore. This easy and flat path is well-suited for all skill levels and ages. Bring your own bike and kick the ride up a notch by stopping for any or all of the 10 outdoor fitness stations dotted along this perimeter trail. It’s like your own open-air gym.
After taking a spin, climb more than 60 steps to the top of Mount Trashmore for 360-degree views. Bring a picnic lunch or fly a kite, both of which are perfect activities for the whole family on a clear blue day. There are also two playgrounds and a skate park at Mount Trashmore. It’s a fantastic destination when you want to spend the day outside.
