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Outdoor Activities in Charlottesville

5 Outdoor Activities near Charlottesville to Try This Spring

If you’re looking for ways to get outside and enjoy the spring weather, look no further! Charlottesville has some amazing outdoor spots and activities for you to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to go for a hike, bike ride, or just take in the scenery, there’s something for everyone. Here are five of our favorites!

-Shenandoah National Park: Virginia’s very own national park is just down the road! Shenandoah is perfect for a day (or more) of hiking, camping, and exploring. Visit the Byrd Visitor Center to learn about the history of the park, enjoy ranger programs, eat at one of the many restaurants, and enjoy over 500 miles of trails!

-Ragged Mountain Nature Area: The Ragged Mountain Natural Area near Charlottesville is a beautiful 980-acre forest with a lake. Seven miles of trail lead through majestic forest, along rugged terrain, and through areas rich with wildlife and offer a unique opportunity for wilderness hiking and trail biking within minutes of town.

-Horseback Riding: There are several stables near Charlottesville that offer horseback riding lessons and trail rides. Charlottesville offers miles of horse-riding trails for riders of all skill levels. This is a great activity for all ages and a great way to explore the beautiful Virginia countryside!

Downtown Charlottesville

-Kemper Park: Kemper Park occupies 89 acres of land along the Thomas Jefferson Parkway. The park is designed for passive recreational use, such as walking, jogging, biking, and bird watching. This dog-friendly park features the Saunders-Monticello Trail, Carter Overlook, an Arboretum, and much more!

-Charlottesville Historic Downtown Mall: A visit to Charlottesville’s Historic Downtown Mall is a great way to spend an afternoon or weekend. Stroll along the brick-paved pedestrian area and enjoy local shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings along the city’s Main Street.

Spring is the perfect time to get outside and explore all that Charlottesville has to offer! These are just a few of the outdoor activities available in our community. For more ideas, be sure to check out the Visit Charlottesville website, or visit our Living in Charlottesville page for more information on the local area!