10 Spots to Enjoy the Outdoors in Lynchburg, VA
Find adventure, fun and gorgeous views in LYH.
If you’re looking for an outdoor oasis, check out Lynchburg, VA. Not only is this city nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, but the James River runs through it.
“One of the great things about Lynchburg is that we have such a diverse and accessible range of outdoor opportunities,” says Tim Slusser, University of Lynchburg’s assistant director of outdoor recreation and education and creator of the Outdoor Leadership Program. “Getting outside improves your mood, your stress – even if it’s just as simple as walking on the Creekside Trail or getting out into the Blue Ridge for a couple of hours.”
Ready to explore all LYH has to offer? Here are 10 spots to enjoy the outdoors in Lynchburg, VA.
In This Article
1. Blackwater Creek Natural Area in Lynchburg, VA
A peaceful respite in nature awaits at Blackwater Creek Natural Area. Paved and off-road trails wind through this 300-acre forested area, making it the perfect place to hike, jog, bike or simply enjoy the views and fresh air. The trail system connects many of the area’s parks and other green spaces.
“Pretty much anything you would want to do in nature is in the Blackwater Creek Natural Area,” says Brian Wallace, marketing and development coordinator for Lynchburg Parks & Recreation.
2. Ivy Creek Park in Lynchburg, VA
Fishing enthusiasts of all ages can enjoy Clemmons Lake in Ivy Creek Park. As part of the Youth-Only Stocked Trout Program, the water is only available to youth under the age of 15 during certain periods. However, the rest of the year, the waters are open to all, whether they want to go fishing, canoeing or kayaking.
Ivy Creek Park also includes trails lined with special bird feeders meant to attract certain species. This quiet park offers a great setting for a lakeside picnic or stroll through nature. Kids can also enjoy the park’s play area.
3. Riverside Park in Lynchburg, VA
True to its name, Riverside Park features trails that run alongside the James River, along with a splash pad and train exhibit, which kids love. The park’s grassy, open spaces are often used for food trucks and outdoor movies.
Throughout December, the Celebration of Lights – a drive-thru display of colorful lights – transforms Riverside Park into a winter spectacle.
“It’s free to the community, and it’s become a really big hit,” Wallace says.
4. Riverfront Park in Lynchburg, VA
Not to be confused with Riverside Park, Riverfront Park is located downtown and hosts a number of concerts and events throughout the year. Visitors can take a stroll along the river after shopping or enjoying a meal downtown. The park connects some of the wider trail systems across LYH.
“It’s an all-purpose place that’s conveniently located to a lot of businesses and restaurants,” Wallace says.
5. Appalachian Trail near Lynchburg, VA
Not far from Lynchburg, the Appalachian Trail runs through the sprawling Blue Ridge Mountains, offering day hikes for casual visitors or more strenuous trails for avid hikers.
“The Appalachian Trail through our section of Central Virginia is beautiful,” Slusser says. “We can be on the AT in 25 minutes from the university.”
The most accessible entrance to the trail from LYH is in Bedford County. From there, hikers can explore trails, waterfalls and beautiful views.
6. Peaks View Park in Lynchburg, VA
From disc golf to mountain biking, Peaks View Park offers a range of activities for athletes. Peaks View is home to seven multipurpose fields for soccer, football, softball and baseball as well as courts for tennis, volleyball and basketball. Plus, mountain biking enthusiasts can enjoy trails and a pump track.
“Peaks View Park is an amazing mountain biking opportunity,” Slusser says.
7. Rotary Centennial Riverfront Skatepark in Lynchburg, VA
LYH is home to an outdoor skatepark that is equipped with a half-pipe as well as a street course, which has multiple flat bars, two quarter pipes and concrete bank stairs.
“It’s a place for a lot of the youth in our city to come hang out, get exercise and socialize with other people. There’s a mental health aspect to that, as well. They’re around people who have the same passion for skateboarding that they do.”
Brian Wallace, Lynchburg Parks & Recreation
8. Lynchburg Dog Park in Lynchburg, VA
While leashed dogs are welcome in many of Lynchburg’s public parks, dog owners can let their pups run free at Lynchburg Dog Park. With separate areas for small and large dogs, owners can choose the right area for their pet. Located in the Blackwater Creek Athletic Area, the park is the perfect place to go before or after taking a stroll along on the Blackwater Creek Trails.
9. James River in Lynchburg, VA
The James River runs alongside many of Lynchburg’s parks and trails and is a popular destination for fishing and boating. If you’re looking to spend more time on the river, you can book a kayak or canoe trip – ideal during spring and summer months.
“If you’re into boating or fishing, this is a great spot to be,” Slusser says.
The river is home to a variety of fish, from smallmouth bass and catfish to different sunfish varieties. The James River Association assists in river conservation and educates the public through different programs and initiatives.
10. Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre in Lynchburg, VA
For year-round winter activities, check out the Snowflex Centre. Artificial slopes allow for skiing and snowboarding throughout the year. Kids can enjoy sledding on the bunny hill and take skiing and snowboarding lessons. Year-round tubing runs offer views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. The Snowflex Centre offers equipment for rent, and instructors are available to help beginners learn the ropes.
While the region’s parks and natural areas are available for everyone to use, Wallace and Slusser urge visitors to adhere to the Leave No Trace principles.
“Enjoy the park but leave no trace for the next person so that they have the same experience,” Wallace says.
This article is sponsored by the City of Lynchburg offices of Economic Development & Tourism and Communications & Public Engagement.