The best traffic-free bike rides around Virginia Beach

There are over 15 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Virginia Beach, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. Most of these routes, about 13, are considered easy, making them suitable for a wide range of riders.

Virginia Beach's no-traffic cycling routes offer diverse terrain. You'll find smooth, paved paths like the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, as well as mixed surfaces including gravel and sandy sections within parks like First Landing State Park. Routes through natural areas often feature boardwalks and compacted dirt paths, providing a varied and engaging ride.

Yes, Virginia Beach offers several excellent family-friendly options. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a wide, paved path perfect for leisurely rides with children. Another great choice is the Mount Trashmore Perimeter Trail, an easy 1.9-mile paved loop within Mount Trashmore Park, which is ideal for beginners and families.

While many outdoor areas in Virginia Beach are pet-friendly, specific rules apply to certain natural refuges. For example, pets are generally not permitted on the dikes within Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, especially during the winter months (November 1 to March 31) to protect nesting birds. Always check specific park regulations before bringing your dog.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Virginia Beach, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Summer can be hot and humid, though coastal breezes can provide some relief. Winter cycling is possible, but some natural areas like Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge may have restricted access to protect wildlife.

Yes, there are several circular routes available. The Mount Trashmore Perimeter Trail is a popular easy loop. For a longer, more challenging experience, the East and West Dike Trail Loop in Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers a moderate 23.1-mile ride, though it's important to note seasonal closures for wildlife protection.

Virginia Beach's routes offer a wealth of natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can cycle through maritime forests, past freshwater ponds and salt marshes in First Landing State Park, or along the shores of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, known for its diverse birdlife. Notable attractions include Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge itself, Pleasure House Point Natural Area, and Lake Trashmore. The iconic King Neptune Statue is also a prominent landmark near the oceanfront.

Parking is generally available at the trailheads and access points for many of Virginia Beach's cycling routes. For example, First Landing State Park has designated parking areas for trail access. Mount Trashmore Park also offers ample parking for visitors. For routes like the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, various public parking garages and lots are available nearby.

For those seeking a more remote and challenging ride, False Cape State Park offers rugged and less developed trails across its pristine beaches, dunes, and maritime forests. Access to False Cape is typically by foot, bike, or boat, providing a true escape into nature. The East and West Dike Trail Loop in Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge also presents a moderate challenge with its 23.1-mile length.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Virginia Beach, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the scenic oceanfront boardwalk to the tranquil natural refuges and state parks. The well-maintained, traffic-free paths and the opportunity for wildlife viewing are frequently highlighted as major draws.

Virginia Beach has a public transportation system, HRT (Hampton Roads Transit), which operates bus services. Some routes may offer connections to areas near popular cycling trails, particularly those closer to urban centers like the Virginia Beach Boardwalk or Mount Trashmore Park. It's advisable to check HRT schedules and routes for specific access points.

Yes, amenities are readily available, especially near the more urban routes. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Routes within city parks like Mount Trashmore also have facilities. For routes in more natural or remote areas like First Landing State Park or False Cape State Park, it's recommended to bring your own supplies, though visitor centers may offer limited amenities.