Cape Henry Trail

The Cape Henry Trail is approximately 19 kilometers (about 11.8 miles) long. For touring cycling, it typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The trail offers a diverse mix of surfaces. You'll encounter paved sections, which can sometimes have roots and potholes, transitioning to wide, smooth dirt paths and hardpacked earth. As you approach the southern end, particularly past the 64th Street entrance, the terrain becomes narrower and sandier, with some challenging sandy spots. There are also marsh boardwalks. After heavy rains, some middle sections can be muddy.

Yes, the trail is generally rated as easy with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for families and those seeking a relaxed ride. However, beginners should be aware that the varied terrain, including less maintained paved sections and sandy spots, can be bumpy and more challenging, especially for bikes with smaller tires. The narrower, sandier sections might feel a bit like mountain biking.

Cyclists are treated to a rich array of natural beauty, winding through maritime forests, bald cypress swamps, and salt marshes. You'll see exotic lagoons, cypress trees, and Spanish moss. There are good views from bridges and overlooks, and opportunities to spot wildlife such as ospreys, herons, foxes, and deer. The trail also offers views of bayside beaches and Lake Susan Constant.

The trail uniquely blends urban connectivity with the serene natural beauty of First Landing State Park. You'll pass through areas like First Landing State Park itself and near Long Creek. Along the route, particularly at the Trail Center and the Narrows, you can find restrooms, picnic tables, drinking fountains, and bike racks. The trail also follows a former railroad corridor developed in 1902.

Yes, the Cape Henry Trail is located within First Landing State Park, which requires an entrance fee. You can find more information about current fees and any necessary permits on the Virginia State Parks website: virginia.gov.

Parking is available at various points within First Landing State Park. Popular access points include the Trail Center and the 64th Street entrance. These locations often provide amenities like restrooms and trail maps.

Dogs are generally allowed on the Cape Henry Trail within First Landing State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are typically mild but can have cooler, wetter days. Weekends can be busy, so consider a weekday visit for a quieter experience.

Yes, the Cape Henry Trail intersects with and runs alongside several other paths within First Landing State Park. You'll find sections that overlap with the Cypress Swamp Trail, Bald Cypress Trail, Live Oak Trail, and Long Creek Trail, among others, offering opportunities to explore different parts of the park.

For a smoother ride, especially if you're on a touring bicycle or prefer less challenging terrain, consider starting your ride from the western end of the trail. The sections closer to the urban areas and the middle of the park tend to be more hardpacked dirt. The narrower, sandier sections are more prevalent towards the southern end, particularly past the 64th Street entrance, so you might choose to turn around before those parts if you're not equipped for them.