Day Trips from Virginia Beach
← All Virginia Beach day tripsDay Trips from Virginia Beach: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Virginia Beach, VA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Virginia Beach
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Just 33 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.8 stars by 1,795 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
False Cape State Park
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Just 36 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.8 stars by 495 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pleasure House Point Natural Area
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Just 21 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.8 stars by 791 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Grandview Nature Preserve
Hampton, VA 23664
Just 45 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.8 stars by 916 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Nags Head Woods Preserve
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Just 1 hr 45 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.8 stars by 267 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Northwest River Natural Area Preserve
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Just 36 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
York River State Park
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Just 1 hr 11 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.7 stars by 1,520 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Savage Neck Dunes State Natural Area Preserve Parking Lot
Cape Charles, VA 23310
Just 1 hr 5 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.7 stars by 252 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve
Portsmouth, VA 23703
Just 33 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.6 stars by 482 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Kitty Hawk Woods Reserve
NC 27949, USA
Just 1 hr 34 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.6 stars by 106 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Stumpy Lake Natural Area
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Just 24 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.6 stars by 425 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Grandview Nature Preserve Trail Access
Hampton, VA 23664
Just 44 min from Virginia Beach, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Virginia Beach
What are the best hiking trails near Virginia Beach, VA?
The best hikes near Virginia Beach range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Virginia Beach?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Virginia Beach offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Virginia Beach?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Virginia Beach are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Virginia Beach?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Virginia Beach. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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