Let's Hit the Trails!

The first Saturday in June celebrates National Trails Day. It's time to get out and enjoy the Summer temperatures! Whether you are traveling to Coastal Virginia for vacation or live here all year the area offers great trails and experiences for the entire family. The cities of Virginia Beach, Chesapeake & Norfolk offer great opportunities for easy family friendly trails to explore nature, see wildlife and capture great pictures to remember the moment. Some offer a unique opportunity to visit the trails and ocean all in one. Since June is National Great Outdoors Month a great way to get out is on the trails that everyone from the dog to the grandparents can enjoy! So let's take a stroll thru a view of what Coastal Virginia has to offer.

1. Pleasure House Point In Virginia Beach 

Talk about the best of both worlds. Here you get the trails with all the trees and brush, it's not too long and an easy trail for all ages and dogs. Plus, you get the beautiful view of the Lynnhaven River. It's 118 acres of tidal marsh, sandy shores and maritime forest and a highlight of beauty for photography.

Pleasure House Point, Virginia Beach, Va. Sandy Trails Sandy Shores of Pleasure House Point, Lynnhaven River Sandy Shores Trails of Virginia Beach
Pleasure House Point, Virginia Beach, Va. The Maritime Forest

Take Prickly Pear Eastern Prickly Pear Plant in Coastal Virginia Caution.... as with anywhere is nature be careful. Make sure to stay on the trails and wear proper shoes to avoid prickly surprises from the natural foliage. 

If you want to up the trails and have an Ocean View check out False Cape State Park.

2. Heading inland a little brings you to a pleasant family friendly trail thru Oak Grove Lake Park in Chesapeake, Virginia. Here you have a 1.5 mile circular wide trail with 65 acres of forest and wetlands. The path is large and extremely family friendly... well except you pass the playground immediately coming in which can be a struggle to get the little ones off of before hitting the trail. The trees offer wonderful shade along the path on hot summer days. The park is dog friendly for pets on a leash. Be ready for some wildlife adventures in this wooded and wetland environment. Want to have a little fun make play a game of I Spy or Go on an adventure or Play Nature Bingo to add a little more to this fun trail. If you are visiting or live in Chesapeake be sure to check out Chesapeake Arboretum for another short family styled trail.  Eastern Box Turtle at Oak Grove Lake Park The land turtle is native to the eastern part of the United States.
Brown Dog Tick Brown Dog Tick

Take Caution... as always when in nature be sure to protect against Ticks after taking to the trails. Always check yourself, your children and pets after trips to the trails. 

3. Now off to the city styled trail in Norfolk, Virginia. The Elizabeth River Trail takes you on over 10 miles total but you can pick and choose your choice of path and break it up. The Freemason Portion offers a waterfront area, views of the Battleship Wisconsin and Pagoda Gardens all with a family friendly path and ability to break up the total distance. A must is stopping by the Coy Fish Pond to feed the fish (bring some quarters).

Elizabeth River Trail, Freemason The Freemason District of the Elizabeth River Trail So Coastal Virginias' Beauty comes in all varieties.... from the sea to the suburbs to the city all within 30 minutes of each other! If you are a resident be sure to check out your own backyard and if you are a visitor WELCOME! 

Dog Friendly Trails in Virginia Beach Trails of Sandy Pleasure House Point in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Don't forget the dog either! Coastal Virginia offers many dog friendly places. Keep an eye out for our upcoming Blog Dog Friendly In Coastal Virginia!

As always " YOU make me HAPPY when you choose When Skies Are Grey Photography by Denise" 

If you are looking to capture your family moments, Senior Memories or Branding You & Your Business Schedule a Session for one of these great Virginia locations.