Belle Isle

"Where nature meets the city. It's out in nature with trails, but plenty of evidence is left by people who have come and go."

"I hiked Belle Island from the southside via Buttermilk Trail using the walkways across from Rivers Towers. As soon as you cross the rocks & bridge near the vacant power plant you will find a dirt bike path to the right leading through the woods emerging at the James River. Another path drops to the left leadd to the graffiti covered plant. If you stay on the wide gravelled path it eventually it will lead to the other side of the island near the Pedestrian Bridge beneath the Lee Bridge. If you stay on the island you can walk upriver on the gravel path w great views of the rushing waters. At the far end of the island, there's easy walkouts onto the smooth, flat rocks to get closer to the water or to enjoy the sun. If you continue on the gravel path it will loop back on the other side of the island near the power plant. For something different (tad more strenuous) you might take one of the inner paths up and over the center of the island. The one I took eventually led to an cliff overlook above the quarry pond and the river in the distance, and back down to the familiar gravel loop trail."

"Went on a birthday morning hike here with my boyfriend this past weekend and it was nice! Overall it was cool. Signs - better signage for the buildings. No signs at all. Some explanation would help your guests learn. Nice they had a Bike area for active visitors. They need to add Trail markers to confirm going the right way. We almost got lost but we found the correct path after trail and error in the daylight. I would go back."

"Lot's of trails on this island and plenty of history here. It is to bad that people use graffiti on anything and have spoiled the old buildings and signs. You're supposed to be able to scan a QR code for a walking tour of the island but the graffiti has covered the code and you can't get to it. There's some fantastic views of the river."

"Quick pit stop and well worth it. This has to be one of the most unique parks i have been too. The hike the suspension bridge,mountain bike course. It really had so much to offer!"