Jul 11, 9 AM - Carillon to Forest Hill Park Hike

This five mile hike begins in the parking lot that services the The Carillon in Byrd Park (easy to locate). We will make our way from the Carillon to the 1882 Pump House and after crossing the river on the Boulevard Bridge we will take on some of the most challenging parts of the Buttermilk Trail, crossing a couple of streams and negotiating a sheer rock face, until we reach Reedy Creek Landing. After making a passage through a subterranean tunnel, we will follow Reedy Creek to Forest Hill Park, passing scenic Lake Bussey before climbing the stairs to the pickle ball courts. Eventually we'll pass through the Forest Hill Park parking lot and access the riverside trail at the 42nd Street park entrance. The service road/western extension of Reedy Creek Trail will take us back to the the Nickel Bridge. Re-crossing the river, we will have a second great view of the James River Railroad Bridge to the west.

This is a hike over improved woodland trails, paved surfaces and, in places, steep ascents. Hikes begin at the posted time, not five or ten minutes later. If you are unfamiliar with the meet up location, add a few minutes to your travel schedule so you can find us. If you need help with directions, click on the inset map in the event description to display a larger interactive map. When you select "Directions" (upper left) the best route from your location to the Meet Up rendezvous spot will be calculated. Before the hike be sure to place anything that might invite theft in your trunk before you leave your car parked while you are hiking.

Participants should be able to maintain a pace of twenty-five minutes per mile, ford a stream, and possess the ability to recognize toxic plants, negotiate rocks, roots, fallen trees, damp trail conditions, stairs, steep ascents, low hanging vines and branches, culverts, uncertain footing on hills, spider webs, scorpions, birds of prey, migratory waterfowl, reptiles and stairways. While your event host is providing a framework for your Meet Up hiking experience, you are responsible for your own safety and well-being.

• What to bring

Water bottle, clothing appropriate for the season, aspirin, sun block, insect repellent, band aids, hiking sticks, bear spray, skunk repellant, practical footwear & a snack.

• Important to know

• Anticipated Weather Conditions
• Wind Chill Calculator
• James River Water Level
• Primitive restroom facilities are available at the Pump House, Reedy Creek Landing and Forest Hill Park.
• Treking poles are recommended for this hike.
• Ample parking is available in the lot that services Dogwood Dell.
• This is not a good hike for dogs due to the steep and narrow confines of the Buttermilk Trail.
• Contact the Event Organizer by phone or message at 804-297-7634