3 Best Hiking Trails in Hampton, VA

“Sandy Bottom Nature Park is a 456-acre environmental education and wildlife management facility. The trail has an elevation gain of 26 feet. The park boasts a 10,000-square-foot nature center that overlooks Sandy Bottom Lake. It is a remarkable example of how to recreate natural resources. The nature park provides a playground, a frog pond, a small museum, and cheap boat rental. Sandy Bottom Nature Park features several trails that are well-maintained and spacious. The nature center is open for viewing beautifully and naturally well-kept reptiles, turtles, and insects. Sandy Bottom Nature Park has wheelchair and stroller accessibility. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be leashed in some areas.”

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“Grandview Nature Preserve covers 475 acres of diverse coastal habitats, including salt marshes, tidal creeks, and the Chesapeake Bay beachfront. The trail within the preserve extends for 6.0 miles, offering visitors ample opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings. The trail has a gentle elevation gain of only 39 feet but provides a picturesque and relaxed hiking adventure. This is an out-and-back trail, which means hikers can walk the same route back and enjoy the stunning views again. The estimated time to complete the entire trail is approximately 1 hour and 44 minutes. Grandview Nature Preserve is ideal for various activities, including beachcombing, birdwatching, and wildlife photography. The trails within the preserve lead through marshes and woodlands, offering excellent opportunities to observe migratory birds and other wildlife species. Visitors to Grandview Nature Preserve can enjoy fishing activities with a valid saltwater fishing license issued by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. The preserve is open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, giving visitors ample opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty at their own pace.”

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“The Matteson Trail ensures 3.0 miles of trail that offers a scenic outdoor experience with a gentle elevation gain of 13 feet. Making it accessible to hikers of all fitness levels. The trail follows a loop route, allowing hikers to return to their starting point without retracing their steps. The Tess Matteson Trail takes approximately 52 minutes to complete. Visitors can appreciate the picturesque surroundings while traversing the well-paved path, making it ideal for walking or running. Along the trail is a small lake where hikers can rest and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Matteson Trail starts and ends at the Teen Center, providing a convenient and accessible hiking trail during daylight hours. It's important to note that while dogs are permitted on the trail, they must be leashed in certain areas to ensure the safety and comfort of all trail users.”

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