Elizabeth River Trail
Located in Norfolk, Virginia, the Elizabeth River Trail follows the river for a picturesque 10.5 miles. In addition to beautiful views of the river and the city skyline, the trail is perfect for a number of other types of enjoyment. It’s a terrific place to experience the natural and cultural wonders of Norfolk and a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Harbor Park, where the Norfolk Tides play minor league baseball, is on one end of the route, and Norfolk State University is on the other. The walk travels through a number of coastal areas. In addition to pedestrians and runners, cyclists and skateboarders can also utilize this trail.
The Elizabeth River Trail is great since it passes through many of Norfolk’s top tourist spots. Along the way, you’ll see Nauticus, a maritime museum with hands-on displays and the USS Wisconsin, a battleship that saw action in World War Two and the Gulf War. The trail passes by the beautiful 19th-century mansions in the Masonic District and the event- and festival-friendly Town Point Park.
The Norfolk Botanic Garden is another great place to visit while you’re in the area. The garden is not on the trail itself, but it is easily reached from the path, making it a pleasant stop for hikers and cyclists. There are more than 60 different themed gardens here, and you may take a tram for three miles through the grounds.
Great restaurants can be reached via the Elizabeth River Trail. The Waterside District features waterfront dining, live music, and fun for the whole family. There’s a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from seafood to pizza to barbecue. There are a number of cafes and bakeries dotted along the path, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a rest stop while you take in the sights.
The trail itself is in excellent condition and is flat and smooth for walkers of all abilities. The trail even has a touch of history thanks to the brick pavers that make up the section that runs through Harbor Park and Town Point Park. The path is well-lit so that it can be used at night without fear of danger.
The chance to observe numerous species of wildlife is one of the many benefits of hiking the Elizabeth River Trail. Fish and birds of many kinds live in the river, and hikers and cyclists frequently encounter ospreys, herons, and even bald eagles along the trail. Anglers travel from far and wide to fish for shad and herring in the river throughout the spring.
The Elizabeth River Trail is a symbol of Norfolk’s dedication to environmental protection and a destination in its own right. In 2015, the path was incorporated into the citywide “Green Ribbon” plan to connect existing green areas. Many “rain gardens” are located along the path to collect and clean up rainwater runoff before it reaches the river. Many interpretive signs along the trail provide information to hikers about the river’s significance and current conservation efforts.
Ultimately, the Elizabeth River Trail is a stunning and interesting path that showcases Norfolk’s rich history and stunning landscape in a way that no other route can. The Elizabeth River Trail is a fantastic place to visit whether you’re a Norfolk native looking for a new adventure or a tourist hoping to take in the city’s top attractions. The trail is ideal for all types of travelers because of its proximity to interesting sights, tasty treats, and a wide variety of animals. Get your hiking boots or bicycle ready and take a trip down the Elizabeth River Trail.