Maps for Active Living
Albemarle County Trails and Greenways
Albemarle County has an extensive and growing system of greenways and trails. Over 28 miles of trail are available for walking, running and hiking. At the webpage (link above) you can find maps for the following three trails in Albemarle County:
- Mint Springs Trail
- Rivanna Trail
- Walnut Creek Trail
The map for the Mint Springs Trail shows topography and length of the trails. The Walnut Creek Trail map shows topography, length of the trails, and degree of difficulty (easiest, intermediate, most difficult). Pick a trail that works for you!
City of Charlottesville Trails and Bikeways
The City of Charlottesville has a variety of trails that are great for different activities. Some are paved, some are unpaved, some run through parks, some run through mature forests.
City trails (some of which are located in parks) include:
- Schenk's Greenway
- Pen Park
- Fitness Trail
- McIntire Park
- Greenleaf Park
- Forest Hills Park
- Greenbrier Park
- Meadowcreek Gardens
- Rivanna Trail
For pictures and more information on these trails and parks, and for the City's Trail Map, Bicycle Map, or Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, click on the above link.
Peter Jefferson Parkway trails
These trails are part of the vision of the Worrells who sold the property to Martha Jefferson Hospital, providing a green space for people to get outside and exercise. The paths are blacktopped and about 4-5 feet wide. They encircle the ponds where one can observe turtles and several kinds of fish. There are some very steep areas, but you can choose a flatter journey.
Rivanna Trail
The Rivanna Trail is a trailway loop around the City of Charlottesville that also links to several neighborhoods. The trail is designated a National Recreation Trail and a Virginia Birding & Wildlife Trail. To view maps of the Rivanna Trail, click here.
The Rivanna Trail links to the following neighborhoods:
- Greenbrier (at Michie Dr.)
- Belmont at Quarry and Jordan Parks
- Frye's Spring at Sunset Avenue bridge and Azalea Park
- The Meadows at Earhart Drive and Barracks Road
- Barracks at Barracks Road/Cedars Court
- Locust Grove at Holmes Avenue
- JPA at Fontaine Research Park and O-Hill
Saunders-Monticello Trail
The Saunders-Monticello Trail is a beautiful, scenic paved trail accessible to walkers, joggers, cyclists, and those in wheelchairs. The design of the trail was partially inspired by Thomas Jefferson's description of how he wished to present the spectacular views from Monticello. The trail can be accessed from Route 53 near Monticello.
Ivy Creek Natural Area
A network of more than 7 miles of walking trails leaves large areas of natural habitat undisturbed. A 0.7 mile paved trail is provided for visitors with special needs. Jointly owned by Albemarle County and the City of Charlottesville, and managed by the Ivy Creek Foundation, the land has been set aside in perpetuity for free public use as an unspoiled natural area.
Ragged Mountain Natural Area
Seven miles of hiking trail lead through majestic forest, along rugged terrain, and through areas rich with wildlife and offer a unique opportunity for wilderness hiking within minutes of Charlottesville. Please note that dogs, running/jogging, bikes and horses are not permitted.