Hiking the James River in Richmond, VA

Overview

Available languages

English

2 hours

Mobile ticket

Discover Richmond's most interesting and unique feature - the James River! This guided hike will show off the best the park has to offer, without having to worry about getting lost or missing something. Sweeping views of downtown Richmond interspersed with feeling lost in nature - there's something for every outdoor lover!

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Professional local guide

Commission for Viator

Gratuities

What To Expect

You'll be led on a guided hike by a knowledgeable local through the most interesting trails and features of the James River Park System. We'll cross the river via pedestrian bridge to explore and see: - The Manchester Climbing Wall - Belle Isle - The Pipeline Trail - Park wildlife - Civil War and industrial ruins - And more! Our easy-to-moderate hike is 3-4 miles long, and takes about 1.5 - 2 hours to complete. The route is mostly flat (both dirt paths and paved paths), and we'll experience a few stair cases and one stretch of rocky terrain.

Options

Hiking the James River in Richmond, VA

Reviews

4.97

34 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

A tour not to miss
briangY8532LH,
Oct 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Madison did a great job explaining the history and geography of the area. Very enjoyable tour and definitely recommend it.
Being a tourist in my own city of Richmond
Lisa W,
Oct 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Lori was a fantastic guide! Her pace and fun facts were engaging. She volunteered to take pictures of our group in several scenic locations and even gifted us mini Polaroids. Was a fun time with a nice group of fellow hikers. Highly recommend.
The green side of Richmond
Judith M,
Oct 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Relatively flat trail along the James River with forests, open space, paved, gravel and bridges. Lori was a knowledgeable guide with perspectives on local history, cultures and development- very informative!
Easy hike to showcase James River impact
921judithm,
Oct 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Lori was an excellent guide and discussed elements of history, development and current experiences to illustrate the impact of the James River trails on residents of Richmond. The trail system is outstanding and this is an easy hike.
Gorgeous morning hike
heather q,
Aug 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
We had an amazing time with Laurie this morning. We enjoyed a very scenic, beautiful walk around Belle Isle. She was very knowledgeable and recommended some nice local eateries.
Say Yes to this tour!
Pam H,
May 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This tour was absolutely amazing! We had a great time with Taylor! She was so informative, and it's a beautiful walk. The scenery is stunning! Our friends from Minnesota thought it was a great way to learn about our area. Will definitely be recommending to others!!
Awesome Hike!
jackiera1,
Mar 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Lori was an awesome guide on our tour. We learn about the civil war and about Domion Energys' old power plant. We walked on trails around the James River. I didn't know that there were rapids in the river!
Great Tour with some History!
Jackie A,
Mar 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Lori did an excellent job on our tour. We learned some history as well. We walked along the James River and it was super nice.
Exceptional
snowrineo,
Nov 16, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The hike was exceptional and we loved it, best way to view Richmond's beauty and learn about it's rich history and culture. It was our first time to visit, a weekend get away for our anniversary so we loved it. Lori was exceptional, lots of fun facts along the way and she made our hike fun. will def recommend.
James river
terriemt,
Sep 9, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Our guide had a shining personality. She was knowledgeable, answered our questions and kept with our pace! I would recommend