Author: Cecilia

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
“Back Bay NWR includes a thin strip of barrier island coastline typical of the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, as well as upland areas on the west bank of Back Bay. Habitats include beach, dunes, woodlands, agricultural fields, and emergent freshwater marshes. ”  The Refuge is just southeast of Virginia Beach.
Here is the Refuge website.    Map     Overview Map
Winter Trails Map  Summer Trails Map       phone 757-301-7329 x3106
Trails  The seven trails listed here range in length from 0.1 to 3.15 miles and all are described as having a gentle grade (0 to 5%), with varied cross slopes.

Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge

Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge …. “provides wildlife a relatively remote area of upland forests and freshwater marshes extending into the Potomac River. The Refuge habitats host over 211 bird species, more than 200 plant species, 31 mammal species, and 40 species of reptiles and amphibians.”
Here is the Refuge website.   Phone  703/490-4979   Map  Brochure
Wheelchair AccessibleJoseph V. Gartlan Great Marsh Trail 0.75 mile paved trail “…following a forested peninsula and ending at an observation platform overlooking the Great Marsh.”
Wheelchair Accessible  High Point Trail 3 mile This ADA compliant paved trail parallels High Point Road and connects the refuge with Mason Neck State Park managed trails and facilities.
?  The 3 mile Woodland Loop Trail looks as though it might be easy, but does cross some streams.  Call to learn more.

Henrico County

Henrico County
“We are pleased to offer our citizens a variety of programs and activities for all ages, including residents with special needs. From visual arts to nature and outdoors, preschool to senior adults, there is something for everyone!”
Here is website for Henrico County Recreation and Parks.   RichmondOutside
Three Lakes Park & Nature Center    Phone  804-652-1470  Park Map
Wheelchair AccessibleThe Park’s 1. 3 miles of trails circle three man-made lakes. AllTrails  says it is “wheelchair friendly”.

Hampton, VA

City of Hampton
Here is the website for Hampton Parks & Recreation.
Sandy Bottom Nature Park
“From the 10,000 square foot nature center overlooking Sandy Bottom Lake to the elusive creatures that inhabit the wetland marshes, there is something for everyone at Sandy Bottom Nature Park.”
Here is the Park’s website.   Phone 757-825-4657  Park Map   Brochure  There are numerous trails in this park which are easy and probably more than these three are accessible.  AllTrails describes them as wheelchair friendly.
Wheelchair Accessible Trillium Loop Trail 4.5 miles

Wheelchair AccessibleMatteson Trail 4.4 miles  It loops around the outside of the Hamptons Golf Course and is heavily used.
Wheelchair AccessibleChrisman Lake Trail 0.8 mile

Northern Virginia Nature Centers

Northern Virginia Nature Centers  Article from Northern Virginia Magazine, 9/4/2015
There are many nature centers in northern Virginia and many of these have nature trails.  The websites to these centers rarely give any indication of the trails’ difficulty or accessibility.  This article not only gives links to the centers, it provides  phone numbers  so you can call to inquire about a trail’s suitability for you.

Arlington County

Arlington County
Arlington County has a great many parks.  Use their Find a Park to filter parks by Amenities such as paved trails or accessible restrooms.  They describe paved trails and rate some as easy, but wheelchair accessibility is not mentioned.  Call  Parks and Recreation  phone  703-228-7529 for more information.
Map of Parks and Off Street Trails   Trail Descriptions
Lubber Run Park  Map  from Live and Let Hike
Lubber Run Trail  1.2 miles round trip. Paved, but with a few somewhat steep places.
Dawson Terrace Park  Phone 703-228-1875 Trail Map
?Palisades trail 0.43 miles is rated “Easy to moderate”.  “…a relaxing walk in the forest featuring ancient tulip poplar trees and views of the Potomac.”
Fort C. F. Smith Park    Map
Wheelchair Accessible? The trail is 0.46 miles and rated easy.  The surface is  “….variable and is asphalt, concrete & gravel.”  It is not listed as wheelchair accessible, but you might want to give the county parks a call.
Glencarlyn Park??  Map  There is no specific information about the trails at this park other than they range from difficulty from “easy to difficult” and include nature trails.
Lacey Woods Park  Map
 0.34 mile  “Trails through Lacey Woods offer a small escape from an urban environment. You will find mature trees, an azalea garden, and an active group controlling invasive plant species. You may even come across red salamanders who make their home among the logs here.”
Rock Spring Park  Map
0.29 mile of a paved, easy trail.  “Bridges cross the wooded stream at several locations and bring you closer to nature. Local gardeners have made enhancements here, and several volunteers including students from Nottingham School help to preserve the natural beauty.”
Thrifton Hill Park  Map
? 0.39 mile Rated “easy to moderate”  “…a pleasant walk through woods and open spaces perfect for taking a break. This passive park features a paved path and natural trail.”
Tuckahoe Park  Map
0.47 mile easy.  “…a refreshing and informative walk as you read the interpretive panels about nature. You will enjoy the wetland garden, forest, playground, and picnic area.”
Zachary Taylor Park  Map
?  One mile “easy to moderate” stone dust rail.  “…a beautiful place to enjoy being outside with nature trails, paths and a stream.”