Wellness & Nature

Ruffin’ it in Virginia Beach: Top 10 Dog-Friendly Walking Trails

Virginia Beach is a great destination for pet owners looking for a place to walk their furry friends.

With its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and scenic parks, there are plenty of options for dog owners looking to explore the great outdoors with their pets.

From the oceanfront boardwalk to the numerous nature trails and parks, Virginia Beach offers a variety of dog-friendly options for those looking to take their canine companions for a stroll.

Whether you prefer a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, there is something for everyone in Virginia Beach.

The city has a number of parks and nature trails that offer plenty of space for dogs to run and play. Many of these areas are also equipped with amenities such as water fountains, waste stations, and designated dog areas.

Additionally, Virginia Beach is home to several dog-friendly beaches, where dogs can enjoy playing in the sand and surf alongside their owners.

Whether you are a local or just visiting, there are plenty of dog-friendly areas in Virginia Beach to explore.

In this blog post, we will be sharing some of the best dog walking areas in Virginia Beach, so you and your furry friend can make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

1. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
4005 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456 (Google Maps)

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful and tranquil spot for dog walking. With well-maintained trails and stunning views, it's easy to tailor the length of your walk.

The park offers different terrains to experience all in one place, from marsh areas and boardwalks to hiking paths and sandy beaches.

It's a great place to watch the sunset, go on a hike, or simply chill. Keep in mind that some activities are prohibited, such as swimming or sunbathing, to preserve the quiet nature preserve for wildlife viewing.

The $5 parking fee is nominal, and the refuge is usually not crowded. It's a must-visit destination for dog owners who love to explore the great outdoors.

2. Bald Cypress Trail

Bald Cypress Trail
2500 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Google Maps)

Bald Cypress Trail is a beautiful and peaceful dog walking area that's perfect for a short hike.

The trail, which is just under 2 miles, wraps around the park's famous swamps and takes you through lagoons with bald cypress, Spanish moss, and dragonflies.

The area is tranquil and serene, making it a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

If you're looking for a peaceful hike with your furry friend, Bald Cypress Trail is the perfect spot to explore.

3. Cape Henry Trail

Cape Henry Trail
Cape Henry Trail, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Google Maps)

Cape Henry Trail is a fantastic dog walking area with plenty of trails and beaches to explore.

The shaded greenery makes for a pleasant walk, jog or bike ride, and there are even boat ramps available.

The trail is quite long, allowing visitors to walk through the entire park, and there are various points of interest along the way.

For fitness enthusiasts, there are also exercise stations to help with your workout. Whether you're with family, friends or dogs, Cape Henry Trail is a great place to visit.

4. Pembroke Meadows Lake Park

Pembroke Meadows Lake Park
4333 Pembroke Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 (Google Maps)

Pembroke Meadows Lake Park is a charming neighborhood spot for dog walking and family outings.

The park offers a serene lake view and a well-maintained playground area for children. Picnic tables and benches are available for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The park could use some cleaning and maintenance, but it's still a great place to spend a warm day.

It's a quiet park with sparse cars, making it an ideal location for a peaceful walk with your furry friend.

5. Carolanne Farms Neighborhood Park

Carolanne Farms Neighborhood Park
373 Gainsborough Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Google Maps)

Carolanne Farms Neighborhood Park is a great place for dog owners who want to enjoy the outdoors with their furry friends.

The park has a nice nature walk and a dock for launching kayaks and canoes.

It's also kid-friendly, making it a perfect spot for families. The park is well-maintained and provides a peaceful environment for visitors to relax and reflect.

The park is a hidden gem that's worth checking out if you're in the area.

6. Great Neck Meadows Park

Great Neck Meadows Park
781 Old Cutler Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Google Maps)

Great Neck Meadows Park is a fantastic place for dog owners to take their furry friends for a stroll.

The park is well-maintained and offers plenty of space for dogs to run around and play. The walking trails are wide and provide a beautiful view of the surrounding nature.

There are also plenty of benches and picnic tables scattered throughout the park, making it a great place for dog owners to relax and enjoy the fresh air.

The park is generally quiet and peaceful, making it a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. All in all, Great Neck Meadows Park is a great spot for dog owners looking for a peaceful and enjoyable place to walk their dogs.

7. Cypress Point North Park

Cypress Point North Park
1100 Fallbrook Bend, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 (Google Maps)

Cypress Point North Park is a great spot for dog owners looking for a quick walk.

The grass could use a trim, but that doesn't take away from the overall experience.

There are bird pools on each bench, which is a nice touch. It's a perfect place to spend some time before heading to an event.

The park is small, but it's an excellent option for a quick break.

8. Red Mill Farms North Park

Red Mill Farms North Park
2049 Upton Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Google Maps)

Red Mill Farms North Park is a well-maintained neighborhood park that is perfect for dog walking.

It's not usually crowded, so social distancing is easy to maintain. The park is a great place to take your furry friend for a walk or playtime.

The park is small, but it's perfect for a quick outing.

If you're looking for a peaceful and safe place to walk your dog, Red Mill Farms North Park is definitely worth checking out. It's a hidden gem that is loved by many locals.

9. Witt Park

Witt Park
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Google Maps)

Witt Park is a beautiful and well-maintained community park that offers a peaceful atmosphere for a nice walk with your dog.

It's a hidden gem in the Kings Grant neighborhood with a view of an adjacent lake/pond, which attracts a variety of water birds.

The homeowners association and the people who live around the lake respect it and keep it clean. Parking is available on the road.

Whether you're looking for a place to take photos or just enjoy some time in nature with your furry friend, Witt Park is definitely worth a visit.

10. Marshview Park

Marshview Park
136 Marshview Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (Google Maps)

Marshview Park is a great spot for dog owners. With four fenced dog areas and water stations, it's perfect for a day out with your furry friend.

The park also has a wooded trail and a bike trail, making it an excellent place for a medium length walk or bike ride.

There are plenty of shaded areas for picnics, and the park is very dog-friendly with many poop bag stations and ashtrays.

The MTB trails are well marked and easy to navigate, and there are different areas for different dogs. The park has a gentle stream to walk along, and the views are beautiful. A good start for a park with a lot of potential.