3 Best Hiking Trails in Norfolk, VA

“Elizabeth River Trail is a 10.5-mile iconic urban trail. Visitors can discover one-of-a-kind experiences on the trail as it takes you along the waterfront through commercial, residential, and historical sites. The ERT offers amazing views of the Elizabeth River. You can enjoy the parks, restaurants, and breweries along the way. Highlights include The Pagoda & Oriental Gardens, Town Point Park, the USS Wisconsin, Fort Norfolk, and Plum Point Park, featuring new award-winning amenities like a kayak launch, play sculpture, and obstacle course. The Elizabeth River Trail Foundation is tasked with enhancing and activating the trail as a recreational, social, and educational destination in Norfolk, Virginia. Follow them on socials for free events and new trail developments year-round.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Picnic Tables Available
• Has Baseball Field
• Has a Tennis Court.”

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“Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve is a 142-acre wildlife preserve in beautiful Portsmouth. This preserve is entirely dedicated to conservation and environmental education. The total length of the trail is 2.2 miles. The elevation gain of the trail is 32 feet. The trail is loop type. The trail is generally considered an easy trail route. The time taken to complete the total trail is 39 minutes. The preserve's mission is to protect the last remaining piece of wilderness in the Hoffler Creek watershed while promoting environmental education, scientific research, and responsible recreation. The preserve staff ensures the trails are well maintained so visitors can navigate them easily. Some interpretive signs help to understand flora and fauna. Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve features a beautiful creek surrounded by many trees and walking trails. Visitors can explore the views of the lake and the marshes.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Wheelchair Accessible
• Parking Available
• Picnic Shelters.”

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“Paradise Creek Nature Park is a 40-acre waterfront park located in Portsmouth. The total length of the trail is 1.6 miles. The elevation gain of the trail is 26 feet. The trail is loop-type and is generally considered an easy trail route. The time taken to complete the total trails is approximately 29 minutes. The park was developed to teach generations what it takes to restore an urban river's health. The park provides an opportunity for the public to explore its natural shores. There are always exciting things to do with trails, education building, conservation efforts, kayak launches, and playgrounds. Their knowledgeable staff will provide information on edible plants, wildlife, and their work. Signs indicate that there are trees and plants. Paradise Creek Nature Park offers nature classes for the entire family and workshops for children throughout the year.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Free River-friendly Parking
• 2 Miles of Handicap-accessible Trails
• Playground Slides Available.”

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