Always a great place to get out into nature. One of my favorite places to hike with great views of the river or the woods. read more

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This past weekend, I went to one of my favorite local parks in Vegas, and it prompted me to think of my favorite urban parks across the United States. Belle Isle was the first place that came to mind! I lived in RVA (Manchester) for a year from 2007-2008, and Belle Isle became a second home for me during that time. As an avid adventurer, I highly recommend Belle Isle for the following reasons (based on my pre-pandemic/circa 2008 experiences): 1.) Egalitarianism: It's a great place to mix and mingle with people from all walks of life. 2.) It's a great choose your own adventure type of place where you could spend an entire day doing a mix of the following activities: kayaking, hiking, biking, swimming, reading, sunbathing, whiling away time on the rocks, cloud gazing, having a picnic, doing landscape photography/photoshoots, etc. 3.) The James River! It's the only Class III-IV white water rapids in the U.S. running through the heart of a city center. 4.) Wildlife (especially the aquatic birds)! 5.) Proximity to the rich culture, food, and history in Downtown Richmond that you can explore before or after your Belle Isle adventure. read more

This park is very secluded. There is only one way to get to this park and that is by using a suspension pedestrian bridge. The bridge is pretty wavy and very scenic. You can get some really good views from here. This Isle is off the beaten path is appears to be left alone. There are some abandoned structures here that are in very poor shape including what looks like a picnic shelter and an Environmental Education Center. There is also a bike skills course on the island that has been neglected, but is still functional. I saw a picnic table on the Isle, but it was in some deep brush and I would nit recommend using it. The Isle has some well defined nature trails that are popular with mountain bikers, dog walkers, joggers, and hikers. You get some amazing panoramic views of downtown from this Isle. I would say that I experienced swarms of swarming bugs along the trails. They were not vicious, but more irritating than anything. With that being said, I would suggest using some bug spray when you visit here. Some of the trails led to the island shore line/beach areas that I saw people hanging out and other people fishing. This Isle is nice and peaceful. It is far enough away from the city to make you forget about it. It does not have a lot to offer outside of it nature trails, fresh air, fishing spots and small beach areas. I am glad that I made it over here and recommend spending a little time here and checking this place out. read more

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Happy Earth Month! Belle Isle is one of Richmond's most well loved and known outdoor spaces. It's one of the spots that makes Richmond so unique. Whether it'd be the suspension bridge to the island, the fact that it's an island, the white water rafting nearby, the mountain biking space, the rocks to tan on, or just the trails, Belle Isle is an amazing place to visit. Part of Richmond's charm is how the city integrates nature with old infrastructure. You'll get to see skeletons of old buildings on Belle Isle. It makes for an incredible spot for photos. Whether you're just visiting or a local, I highly recommend checking out Belle Isle. One thing locals love doing is picnicking on the rocks. It's a great thing to do during warmer months and is loads of fun! Belle Isle is also in the center of it all so you can do some fun loops from here! You can do the Belle Isle to North Bank Trail to Buttermilk Trail loop. You can also do the Belle Isle to Brown's Island to Canal Walk (or Pipeline) to Manchester Bridge to Floodwall loop. Hiking through Belle Isle at the beginning of the pandemic is what made me really fall in love with our city. Visit it today! read more

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Pretty fun for Greek activities and a nice way to stay active kinda stinky and overdone though

Went on a 3+ mile pack walk with fellow dog owners this afternoon. Parking is available in the lot or on the street. Marijuana fumes permeated and graffitis everywhere. The signs, the post, ceilings of the bridge. Trash was also abundant and as was dog poop I got spoiled last weekend by all the pristine VB parks. It was such a stark contrast. Can't say I'd want to return except to walk dogs with friends for social purposes. read more

[Pandemic review - 2021) This is a popular tourist hiking/walking spot for Richmond. On the bridge you can the city of Richmond from a distance against a blue sky. I went during July 4th weekend. There are two foot bridges with occasional more open spots for pictures. When I went I spotted a bald eagle (see pic) and turtles. At the end of the bridge walk there are a few other trails to continue your walk. Overall: it is a nice place to walk with a city view. Pretty casual, good for bringing kids/pets. It is a little hard to find parking during busy times of the year. There are paid parking lots around the head of trail. read more

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I had a great time. My cousin was wanting to go here while she stopped by richmond to hang with me. They have different trails but being on a time crunch we stayed on the main trail that was right by the river. I've had multiple knee surgeries and problems since I was 15 and I am 36 now making me very hesitant to go on any type of hike. I would say the entire walk was just as difficult as walking up a flight of stairs going to the second floor of a house. The views are great and I would say get there an hour before sunset to get the best scene for people taking pictures. read more

Belle Isle - Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Down the pipeline walk to Belle Isle is a vigorous hike worth the effort! Well, maybe vigorous is a bit of an exaggeration for most "hikers" but for my poor old knees, it was quite a workout! We loved the woodsy scenery on the trails to the Isle, and the views of the city were spectacular! We chilled on the rocks after our hike and refreshed our minds and bodies by absorbing all of the natural beauty around us! Nature meets the metropolitan skyline to create an invigorating juxtaposition. As the sound of the James River flowed, we inhaled the fresh air and explored Belle Isle. For hikers, bikers, nature lovers, and history buffs, this is an RVA treasure! read more

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Belle Isle is such a cool, unique place to visit no matter what your ideal outdoor activity is. Belle Isle is accessable by a suspension bridge that crosses the James River. It is right in the heart of Richmond. I was with my wife, elementary aged daughter and preschool son so we elected to walk the bridge. While doing so, we noticed others urban exploring, roller blading, biking, skateboarding, dog walking, nature hiking, picnicking and boating. On the isle itself, there are some abandoned structures that we explored. We came across a lot of cool graffiti, as well as some off the beaten areas that were great for drone flying. My one regret is that I didn't have more time to explore. You could easily spend a day in and around Belle Isle. The only downfall, especially for out-of-towners, is the parking situation. There isn't much. I would suggest getting there early or, if you have the option, grab a taxi, Uber, bus(?), something so you don't have to constantly circle to find somewhere to park. Even with the lack of parking, Belle Isle is so worth it! If you are visiting Richmond (or even just rolling through and want a bit of a car break) check out the beautiful Belle Isle section of the city. read more

Great place!!! Stopped here on a road trip to cool off and eat lunch. Had a blast.....just watch out for the slippery rocks. There are many and can be fun people watching as they navigate around. read more

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Belle Isle is a must visit if you are in Richmond! There is so much to do here. My personal favs were the pedestrian suspension bridge and all of the areas to explore off of the path. The parking lot was packed but we had no issues finding parking on the street. read more

Great place for a hike, to bike, or have a picnic. View are great and plenty of areas to explore read more

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Beautiful place for a walk or a hike! Went there on a Friday afternoon and it was pretty crowded there were people everywhere but it was also a beautiful spring day. Parking can definitely be a challenge but you'll eventually find something - you might just have to drive around for a few minutes to do so. read more

Belle Isle - Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

What to do when you've been cooped up for almost 2 months... The fam and I decided to make a trip down to RVA to walk around Belle Isle before I did a brunch date with one of my girls. This is an easy and quick "hike" to go walk up and about. The last time we went here was probably a year ago and to our surprise, it was not as crowded as I thought it would've been. We went on a Sunday morning and were so happy to spot a parking spot by the bridge! Quick and easy, very nice, and close to the Canal walk that we continued to go to afterward. Highly recommend and great for some fresh air. The water was high during the time that we went so that may have explained why there were not any swimmers out yet. read more

Neat historical place this is. The hydroelectric power plant was built by VEPCO in 1904 and was active until 1963. There's not a lot left and what remains can only be seen from the outside. the building is hollowed out and bars are over the windows. However there is colorful graffiti on the main building and pump house and along the back end where the water came in you can walk down it's length and climb down onto the river rocks. It's a great place to explore with the family or friends. read more

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If you love history, abandoned buildings, biking, or running, Belle Isle is the place for you. There's a pedestrian bridge that goes from the main side of Richmond to the Isle with beautiful views of downtown Richmond. Once on the island, there are maps that point you to biking/running trails and historic structures from an abandoned hydroelectric plant to an old mill to remenants of the Confederate POW camp where allegedly thousands of Union soldiers dies. In the center, there's a large bike skill park with ramps, etc. read more

Belle Isle is an outdoor oasis. One can walk, jog, run, hike, and/or bike parallel to the water on maintained trails. You can also examine the shallow rock patches that serve as habitats to marine river creatures, wade in the shallow areas to cool off, swim around, tube and/or kayak around. Many locals will picnic and sunbathe on the rocks. The swinging bridge alone is worth the visit due to the epic views you can catch, especially during a sun rise. read more

This was always a go to spot to work out at. It can be daunting if afraid of heights, BUT if you can conquer your fears, it is a must do!!! You walk across a foot bridge suspended from the Belvidere bridge over to Belle Isle which is historic for it being a union POW camp during the Civil War. There are 3 trails there, which I didn't do today butvm have done in the past. The beauty of the James River is also on a display. It is a mini museum outside for free in RVA. I have to do this every time I'm there. Put it on your bucket list! You won't regret it! read more

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I went to this place for long trail suggested by local relatives. I must say it's really good , long , green walk. It's different in way because of bridge and river. You can go and see river closely. Trail is long so you can plan as per your time and need. And it has some nice view to take pics or videos. Must visit this place. read more

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Honestly, I think it's overrated. It's definitely not the cleanest or most interesting sight. It does look nice during the sunset though, but what doesn't? For people unfamiliar with the area, it may be hard to find parking and navigate Belle Isle overall. Finding a quiet spot can be hard sometimes, but the experience is definitely a lot more positive that way. But while walking around, you can easily trip if you're not careful. read more

Belle Isle - Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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One of the stops on the Richmond tour I take my visitors. Helps that it is a walk from my house. Cross the suspension bridge from the North side, and another walkway from the South side (haven't done that yet). Either way its a great natural hideaway right in the middle of the city. Will see all sorts of people of all ages enjoying the island by running, biking, rock climbing on occasion, and many lounging on the rocks. Swimming when it's warm enough, although the last time we people watched it seemed like it was the rapids that were in control. When you get off the bridge and keep going straight if you head right on the first path you see that will lead you to the rocks. If you pass that first path and take the next right you can see some of the historical ruins. Apparently Belle Isle was a POW camp during the Civil War. Also hear there are tracks for mountain biking higher up on the island but I've never checked it out. Must visit for Richmond locals and visitors. read more

Belle Isle - the foot bridge - Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Belle Isle is arguable the Central Park of Richmond, situated on a decent-sized island in the middle of the James River. Even though you're just across the water from downtown, the sheer density of the foliage makes you feel as if you're far away in the mountains. It's very nice. Being able to chill on the rocks and watch and hear the rapids go by is next level serene. read more

' Beautiful experiences all around here , many a day and many a night spent here . Historical park in a historical city. Worth the stop in every way! ' - CMB read more

Before I stepped foot on belle isle I never heard of it sadly. I was told of a nice walking bridge and dident know what was at the other end of it. There is so much history and beauty here you just have to experience it for yourself. Just beware this place is huge!!! We did a total of almost 8 miles here but we got lost and wound up off the island on the opposite side of where we started lol. So use your maps and watch where you are going. Just come and see where 1,000 pow soldiers lost there lives to starvation and viruses during the civil war, also see the old factories that used to be here and the river and everything inbetween. read more

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One of the most scenic and naturally beautiful spots in Richmond, and how lucky that it's right across my friends home. Belle Isle is a tiny island on the James River that provides a great weekend out for locals and tourists alike. We loved the walking path that circled the entire island, and the river filled with people sunbathing and splashing around to combat the summer heat. On the southern end, the Dry Rocks that encompass the area during the warmer season provides a great excuse to work on your calves. Be aware of pits in-between rocks that are bubbling up some nasty water. Other than that, it's a great spot to chill and take pics. I loved the friendly energy and environment that Belle Isle provides. Looking forward to stopping by again in the future. read more

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Great place to chill out after a brief hike. I advise watching where you step if you decide to hang out by the water, broken glass here and there. It seemed pretty safe considering I saw plenty of first responders training near by on the stairs and on the water training. Not a bad spot for a picnic on the rocks. Good amount of people, but nothing extremely crowded. The water was moving pretty fast, but I did see some people jumping in, but not too far in. Plenty of places to properly dispose of trash. read more

Belle Isle was pretty gross overall. I mean, I get that it's in the heart of Richmond almost, but I expected it to be a little cleaner! The river was fun, despite the trails being a bit gross and trash-filled. My dog and I got on a rock that tons of other people were on. It's definitely an interesting place to explore. We did a good 5-miles there (some not on the actual Belle Isle itself, but took the bridge to the main land). I don't know if I'll be back. Probably not. read more

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The island gives an iconic view of Richmond, conveying a sense of faded industry and wild beauty. A rather fascinating pedestrian bridge is suspended from the bigger freeway bridge leading from downtown Richmond, which grants some nice views of the water. The island has several trails, a few ruins, and what looked like a skate park. Its Western side is rimmed by a shallow rocky segment that one could probably traverse without using the elevated pedestrian bridge, the signs for which make finding it from the Western bank somewhat difficult. I could imagine getting a few more amenities than I saw, and I wish the bridges here linked up better with the Potterfield bridge shortly to the south, as at present you can't walk straight there due to the railroad tracks. Having said that, it's overall quite an impressive piece of nature to have accessible in an urban area, and plenty of people were taking advantage of it when I stopped by. read more

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My friend who is familiar with VA recommended this place to me (I'm from TX) & I absolutely loved it!! The people you walk by are so nice and the views were amazing! read more

Belle Isle - Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Visited in early spring and loved walking around the park. They are still working on finishing up some parts of the area, but walking paths are clear and the setting is beautiful. We went between 11AM - 2PM and seemed to have beat/avoided the crowd. The park is free along with parking (although there seemed to be a very limited spot of parking spots in the lot on Tredegar St). The only complaint I have is that directions are not always clearly labeled... the park could use more signs throughout on the path, and the entrance was hard to find. You have I walk towards the Dominion Energy sign to access the pedestrian bridge. read more

Belle Isle - From the Tredegar street parking lot, walk towards the blue dominion energy sign to find the ramp up to the bridge - Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

I came here with 3 friends on a hot, summer Sunday afternoon. We'd just had a huge lunch and wanted to get some steps in before getting in the car for our 3-hour drive back home. Although it was really hot that day, the pedestrian bridge was a lovely walk, as it was shaded and breezy. I think it was the most comfortable part of our walk, and I rather liked being on a suspension bridge. There were a couple people biking down the bridge, but they were going slowly and cautiously. From the pedestrian bridge, we walked around a few paths/trails and then spent some time by the water. It had recently been storming, so the water was very high still, and also very brown. There were still some rocks where you could sunbathe, but I imagine there would've been more if the water had been lower. We had a lovely time here; the trails were ideal for walking, jogging, and biking, and it seems like a great place to bring children and dogs. We also spotted a few kayakers. It was reasonably clean, although there was nevertheless some litter to be seen, especially by the water. We got lucky with parking, as a spot opened up in a lot nearby just as we were pulling in; otherwise, the nearest lot was packed and we might've had to venture farther to find parking. read more

Belle Isle - Walking/biking path - Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Our little nature walk across the suspended bridge to Belle Isle was a highlight of my many trips to Richmond. This could easily be made into a half day to full day adventure! We went during flood stage when the river was way too high to sprawl and picnic on the rocks on the other side, but that's what one SHOULD do! Regardless, the intensity of the current was really fun to watch as giant logs floated by, at a pretty good clip I might add! Do yourself and read up on the history of the Isle AFTER you go, so you will not spoil the amazing nature destination. Afterwards, the history is very interesting, but sad and violent and brutal. So after getting depressed, concentrate on the geologic history and reason for Richmond to be settled here- because of the rapids! Enjoy your day walking through nature and history! read more

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A gorgeous park with a little something for everyone, from running to cycling to photography, Belle Isle offers incredible views of the James and the city, trails, a small skate park, the beauty of nature, and (my personal favourite) decaying abandoned buildings often decorated with graffiti art. The trails allow for as quick or lengthy of an outing as you prefer and are also great for cycling, though strollers and wheelchairs might get more of a challenge to access some sections. The pedestrian bridge, which is fully accessible, offers stunning views year-round and is a popular place for photography. By the river, the trail has small paths down to the rocks on the banks (perfect for picnics), where you can see evidence of the island's past histories of industry and wartime use, also visible peeking out from the encroaching growth of trees and plants as you follow the trails. Some have informative signs detailing their past purposes while others have been left to ruin in silence. Parking is in a small lot under a railway near to the pedestrian bridge entrance; if that's full, other lots and street parking are available closer to the canal walk. Whenever or wherever you explore Belle Isle, history and natural beauty will be there! read more

Great walking trails into a beautiful setting--some smooth paths and some covered with tree roots. The unique rocks that cover this island brings out the child in you. Everyone jumping or climbing rocks to view a tranquil scene like no other! read more

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Belle Isle is a gorgeous, scenic location to visit on a good weather day. The day I visited was hot and sunny so the area was full of bikers, runners, dog walkers, and sunbathers. There are lots of big rocks to hang out on in the James River. Parking is tricky as there is one reserved lot for Belle Isle and it's super small. We found parking closer to the canal walk. The suspension bridge was a relaxing walk and is stroller accessible. That is where the accessibility in my experience ends though. Since the running trails are gravel, strollers are not easily accommodated. If my son had been older or I did not have him that day, I would have loved to have tested out the waters for swimming! I noticed a lot of kayaking and paddle boarding going on, so this is definitely the place to get your exercise on in RVA. read more

This is a nice hidden gem in Richmond, VA where you can hike or bike the trails. Hey, and if you're a jogger, you can do that too. Stop on the rocks and take in the sun. If you decide to come here, definitely bring some good walking shoes. Flip flops just don't cut it if you plan to do a lot of walking around. Trust me. I know from experience. There was a group of people rafting and a few kayakers. Next time we come here, we might try the rafting. It looked like fun. Bring a backpack with drinks and snacks. Don't forget the sunscreen. read more

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It's scenic. It's historic. It's is a pure example of a perfect night out whether if you're with your sweetie or yourself for a walk or run. If you do not like suspension bridges - this place is not for you. It is stable and it crosses the James River, but I can see how this could be problematic for some people. It's beautiful even if it does swing a little with the breeze. I personally liked this part. There are a few walking trails for you to choose from in regards to your exercise level. All of them remain fairly simple with light to moderate distances. All trails allow you to see different parts of history that Belle Isle has gone through over the years. John Smith first explored it in 1607 and was used by the Native Americans who inhabited the land long before he landed here. With it history, romance, and views - you can truly understand why there are some many reviews with a perfect 5 star rating. read more

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It's very fun to go out there during summer and sit around chilling with strangers who will mind their business if you mind yours. There is a tiny waterfall to the left of the entrance if you walk for a while. To the right of the entrance is the easiest way to get to the rocks. It's definitely a blast to just sit out there with friends. read more

Belle Isle - After sunset at belle isle 22nd street entrance - Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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I love the trail here for running. I come here on the weekend to get me some miles in. Summertime stays nice and cool with all the trees shading you. Great for a power walk. Right on the water. So if you need any water activities, they're available. read more

Belle Isle - Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia