James River Hikers - Hiking With History

A James River Hiker favorite, walk the historic battlefield of Cold Harbor where, for a few hot days in June 1864, the eyes of the world were focused. And, this is the only location in the entire country where two major battles were fought two years apart over virtually the same historic ground . We will travel the wooded paths among the 1864 earthworks and related trails. Please meet in the parking lot at the visitor center. Beginning with a brief overview of the battle, we will travel the 3 1/2 miles ( 1 and 2 mile options are available) of dirt and gravel surfaces with some slight elevation changes stopping at a few historical markers for an overview. Bring water and snack as needed. Rest rooms should be open. Please watch for any weather updates.
Please note: There were over 17,000 casualties from this battle with several Medals of Honor awarded. It would be disrespectful not to include an historic overview.

Brisk 6 mile (approximately an 18 minute mile) walk around beautiful Swift Creek Reservoir and neighborhoods on flat, paved path. For those interested in walking 3 miles, you will have an opportunity to return to your car before we repeat the 3 mile loop. Bring bottled water. We leave promptly at 7am. Hope to see you there!

It is with a heavy heart to post an obituary of a much-adored James River Hiker. Brigitte led the Tuesday Bryan Park Hike for many years and created a dedicated group of hikers that enjoyed walking in the park and chatting with fellow hiking friends. She was welcoming to new members and enjoyed getting to know them. She was so nice and had a wonderful sense of humor. She will certainly be missed. Below is her obituary and the information on her upcoming Celebration of Life.

Brigitte Hasley, 76, of Ashland, Virginia, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025.

Born in Darmstadt, Germany, Brigitte moved to the United States in the early 1970s, eventually making her home in Virginia in 2004 to be closer to her beloved grandchildren. She built a life marked by resilience, independence, and deep care for those around her.

Brigitte loved the outdoors and spent countless joyful hours hiking in local parks with friends. She was also a loyal fan of Denver's sports teams, cheering them on through every season.

In her retirement, she dedicated herself to helping others by volunteering with Meals on Wheels and Feed More, delivering meals and kindness throughout the Richmond area. Her quiet acts of service reflected a generous heart and a strong sense of community.

Brigitte is survived by her son, Mike Hasley; daughter-in-law, Kim Hasley; and two granddaughters, Emma and Elizabeth, whom she adored.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 5 at 5:00 p.m. at Woody Funeral Home, 1771 North Parham Road, Richmond, VA 23229. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Brigitte's memory to Feed More of Richmond.

You need to be in relatively good shape to do this hike. It is not a beginner or no drop hike.

We leave exactly at 06:15 pm. If you are late, you may be able to catch up by walking East on Dock Street to the Flood Wall pedestrian walk-through at the end of the Canal Walk or on the paved Capitol Trail. ***This is a moderate paced hike with a few short rest stops depending on what group wants at the time. This hike is short (5.1 miles, 3.5 mph, 17 min miles), but can be very *challenging due to all the flights of stairs we climb during this hike (thus is the reason it is called the "Mountain Training Hike"). Even though this is a group hike, each participant is welcome to choose whether he or she wants to do some stairs that are considered "optional" and opt out of doing any of the stairs at any time since there is no pressure from the organizer or other members. There will be several overlooks of the Richmond Skyline, Church Hill, and/or Shockoe Bottom. Hydrate before & during hike. Bring a headlamp, flashlight, or use your mobile phone flashlight app. when it is not Daylight Savings Time.

*You will take over 10,000 steps (not stairs) which is well over the daily recommended amount in two hours. There are several sets of stairs to tackle which equals 1,149 stair steps but once again each participant decides which ones he or she wants to climb during the hike. The terrain is mostly paved and brick sidewalks. Some sidewalks are uneven. There is also a short dirt decline which has the usual stumps and small rocks. We will have brief breaks to take in the beautiful views of our city.

PARKING: Park for free on the street. OR Park at the Capitol Parking Lot on Main Street directly across from the Amtrak Train Depot - costs $2 for 3 hours, $3 for 4 hours, or $4 for 5 hours.

DOGS: Dogs are welcome. Please bring plastic bags to pick up your dog's droppings.