Albemarle  County contains over 80 miles of maintained trails within our parks and on our greenways. A variety of trail experiences are available for different types of activities, including walking, running, hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking.

The following links provide more information to help you get active outdoors and explore the natural beauty of Albemarle County, between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the James River

 

 

 

Trail Safety

Our parks and trails allow for exciting exploration and quality time with your friends and family. Be sure to play it safe while you're out playing on the trails.

  • Plan your route ahead of time and pay attention to your surroundings. Should you need emergency assistance, it's vital to be able to tell rescuers where you are on the trail. Pay attention to landmarks and trail signage.
  • Let the slowest person in your party set the pace. This is especially important when children are part of your group.
  • Leave your itinerary with a friend or family member and check in with them upon your return.
  • Remember to bring repair and first aid kits.
  • Wear sunglasses, a hat or visor, and sunscreen.
  • Develop an emergency plan before you start your trip. Make sure everyone knows what to do if they become lost or a medical emergency arises. Give children whistles with the instructions to "stop and blow" if they become lost.
  • Drink plenty of water.

 Charlotte Humphris trail

 

 Unsanctioned and Unauthorized Trail Activities

 

Albemarle County staff in the Parks & Recreation Department (and other Departments) are increasingly concerned by ongoing issues with unauthorized trail-building, unsanctioned construction of trail structures and features, and other unpermitted land use activities in County Parks and Greenways. 

Albemarle County calls on all park visitors to engage in responsible visitation and use, and do your part to enjoy the trails without unnecessary impacts to the environment and without jeopardizing the County's active, ongoing efforts to expand trails in County Parks and Greenways. 

What:  

  • Do not ride off-trail – stay on designated trails.

  • Do not build new trails.

  • Do not re-open closed or re-routed trail segments.  

  • Help build a "low-impact trail user ethic" – follow these management regulations AND help spread the word and model best practices.  

  • Engage with local clubs to get involved and participate in authorized volunteer trail maintenance and land management activities, in full coordination with Albemarle County staff.  

 Why:  

  • Protect the environment.  

    • Avoid impacts to sensitive plant communities.  

    • Avoid land disturbance and soil erosion.  

    • Minimize disruption to wildlife habitat.  

  • Cooperate with land managers. 

    • Help ensure parklands are managed and used in accordance with Albemarle County's plans and policies.  

    • Assist ongoing County efforts to build, extend, and improve trails.  

    • Avoid creating problems that directly jeopardize the County's active, ongoing efforts to work with private property owners to extend public Greenways.