Sites On This Loop
- CRI01: Pole Green Park
- CRI02: Three Lakes Park and Nature Center
- CRI03: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
- CRI03A: Bryan Park
- CRI04: Vawter Street Park / Glen Lea Recreation Area
- CRI05: Gaines’ Mill Battlefield, Richmond National Battlefield Park
- CRI06: Cold Harbor Battlefield, Richmond National Battlefield Park
- CRI07: Chimborazo Park and Chimborazo Medical Museum
- CRI08: Belle Isle, James River Park System
- CRI08A: Byrd Park
- CRI09: 42nd Street Entrance, James River Park System
- CRI10: The Wetlands, James River Park System
- CRI11: Pony Pasture, James River Park System
Description
The Richmond Loop offers a variety of habitats, supporting a diversity of wildlife, just a short commute from Virginia’s capitol. The loop begins northeast of Richmond in the typical eastern arboreal forests of Pole Green Park, proceeding to the wetland areas along Upham Brook at Three Lakes Park, to Vawter Street Park’s riparian woodlands along the Chickahominy River. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is a wonderful stop for the inquisitive naturalist, in particular the native gardens which educate visitors on the natural flora and fauna of Virginia. Two battlefields, as well as the adjacent Chimborazo City Park, are situated on bluffs, pertinent to the function of forts that once stood on the grounds. From these hillsides, enjoy expansive views of the city and hike the downward trails into remote woodland for an afternoon of naturalizing. All three of the James River Park’s sites are situated just south of the heart of downtown, but the wildlife doesn’t seem to be bothered by the metropolitan surroundings.
Loop Map
Services
Ashland/Hanover Chamber of Commerce
804.798.8130
admin@habcc.com
Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce
804.648.1234
jim.dunn@grcc.com
Richmond Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau
800.370.9004
jberry@richmondva.org
Tourism and Public Affairs, Ashland-Hanover County Conv. And Visitor Bureau
804.798.0849
bcrawford@town.ashland.va.us