On any given day in the
cities throughout Coastal Virginia, you are sure to find runners pounding the
pavement and logging their weekly miles. Though we often choose the sidewalks
and streets closest to our homes out of convenience, we may be missing the
benefits found in other environments.
A great alternative to the paved streets and walkways are nature trails and paths. Studies have shown people who run trails actually have fewer injuries. This comes from a combination of factors. Natural paths are softer and uneven causing less stress on bones and joints and increasing strength in the muscles responsible for stability. Many people find an increase in performance when they introduce trails into their routine.
Now that you know the benefits, where can you find trails in this region? Coastal Virginia is packed with great places to check out. Here is a list The Vacation Channel team put together from around the area.
A great alternative to the paved streets and walkways are nature trails and paths. Studies have shown people who run trails actually have fewer injuries. This comes from a combination of factors. Natural paths are softer and uneven causing less stress on bones and joints and increasing strength in the muscles responsible for stability. Many people find an increase in performance when they introduce trails into their routine.
Now that you know the benefits, where can you find trails in this region? Coastal Virginia is packed with great places to check out. Here is a list The Vacation Channel team put together from around the area.
Williamsburg
Matoaka Trails is 10 miles of wooded trails surrounding Lake Matoaka. Located on the William and Mary campus, this trail is great for runners who want to get closer to nature. It offers fresh streams and a diversity of wildlife
Newport News
Newport News Park offers a 5.3-mile trail that is surrounded bike way (unpaved, multi-use trail). Most of this trail would be conducive to running with jogging strollers or riding bikes.
Nolan Trail is a 5 mile unpaved trail. With 14 wooden bridges, small hills, mile markers, and beautiful scenery, it’s a great place to log some miles.
HamptonNewport News Park offers a 5.3-mile trail that is surrounded bike way (unpaved, multi-use trail). Most of this trail would be conducive to running with jogging strollers or riding bikes.
Nolan Trail is a 5 mile unpaved trail. With 14 wooden bridges, small hills, mile markers, and beautiful scenery, it’s a great place to log some miles.
Matteson Trail a 3 mile trail located around The Hamptons Golf Course. This trail is friendly to walkers, runners and rollerbladers. It is a great place to catch some exercise on your lunch break as well.
Sandy Bottom Park trails range from .12 to 3.3 miles in length. The area is host to a lake, marshlands, and wildlife.Great location for a nice jog or scenic walk with the family.
Norfolk
Elizabeth River Trail is a 9.49 mile stretch. It is a combination of paved and unpaved trails. If you like to run alone, this is a great place to do so.
Virginia Beach
Stumpy Lake Natural is 1.65 mile loop located in a wooded area by Stumpy Lake.
WestNeck Trails is 2.5 miles of natural trails.This is a nice place for a short run or to take a walk with the family.
First Landing State Park, 20 miles of trails broken down into 10 separate trails that vary in distance and terrain. This park is an exceptional place for families, bikers, runners, and folks that want to bring their dog along.
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