Fall/Winter Outdoor Exercise in Richmond Did you know that physical activity is a major factor in long-term weight loss? In addition to weight management benefits, exercise can lower your risk of heart disease and can help prevent health problems such as diabetes and hypertension. Check out these ways to get active and have some fun outside in Richmond, even when it’s colder! Mountain Biking on the James River Trails The James River Park System offers fantastic trails to mountain bike on. Called the JRPS Loop, five major downtown trails connect to form anywhere from 8-13 miles of mountain biking bliss, depending on the route you take. Park at Tredegar and set off to explore the Buttermilk, North Bank, Belle Isle, Dogwood Dell and/or Forest Hill park trails. Manchester Climbing Wall The Manchester Wall is a remnant of the Richmond & Petersburg Railroad bridges on the James River. Located below the Manchester Bridge, the Manchester Climbing Wall is excellent for both recreational and experienced climbers—there are routes for every skill level. The best time to climb is autumn, so gear up and head down to the wall. Check out the surrounding piers and boulders as well for more fall climbing experiences. Apple/Pumpkin Picking The Chesterfield Berry Orchard offers pick-your own pumpkins in the fall. With lots of great outdoor family activities, this is a must-do for anyone seeking autumn outdoor adventure. If you’re up for a short drive outside of Richmond, head to Carter Mountain Orchard and pick from over 5 varieties of apples. This is a beautiful place to enjoy the fall and pick some delicious treats. Hiking through Pony Pasture Pony Pasture Rapids Trail is a 2.2 mile loop and is primarily used for hiking. Enjoy the changing leaves and multiple views of the river as you hike this stretch of the James River Park System. Sledding at Maymont Think Maymont is just a good place to hit up in the spring and summer? Think again! Maymont is a terrific place to go sledding in the winter. There are numerous great hills on the 100 acres of Maymont. Specifically, check out the hill at the Nature Center, the hill near Dooley Mansion and the hill behind the children’s farm. If you conquer the Maymont hills, head over to Libbie Hill Park for sledding with a great view over the city. RVA on Ice Ice skate outside on a rink nestled in the heart of downtown Richmond. Late November through the end of January, you can head down to Broad & 6th street, rent some ice skates and soak in some holiday spirit (all while getting a great work out in). You can even reserve time to play hockey with your friends if you so desire! Richmond Ski Club Enthusiastic about skiing or snowboarding? Want to meet other people in the RVA area who are too? Then check out the Richmond Ski Club where you’ll have, literally, over 100 event options to be apart of in a given year, including numerous ski trips in the Winter. All types & levels of skiers and snowboarders are welcome to place membership. See richmondskiclub.org for more information.