RICHMOND & AROUND

Cooler-season walks: Forest Hill + Huguenot Flatwater

For a leashed park-and-river walk during the cooler months, with an optional outdoor brewery stop.

Sources checked Sep 23, 2026; selected details rechecked Sep 30, 2026 · Research-based

These stops are in Richmond. Check directions from your starting point; daylight and weather will affect your plan.

STOP 01 / OPTION

Forest Hill Park

Start with Forest Hill’s park paths. Keep your dog leashed.

With your dog: Dogs are allowed on leash. Keep your dog leashed throughout the park.
Costs: No entry fee stated on RVA park pages.
Getting there: 4021 Forest Hill Avenue area. Use designated parking; parking on grass is prohibited.
Hours: Sunrise to sunset (rva.gov Forest Hill Park page).

Sources for this stop · Checked Sep 23, 2026

STOP 02 / OPTION

Add a shoreline walk at Huguenot Flatwater. Keep away from dangerous river conditions.

With your dog: Keep your dog on a leash. This is not a designated off-leash area.
Costs: No entry fee stated on Friends of James River Park page.
Getting there: 8600 Riverside Drive, as listed by Friends of James River Park. Confirm lot access before leaving.
Hours: Sunrise to sunset every day (Friends of James River Park).

Sources for this stop · Checked Sep 23, 2026

STOP 03 / OPTION

Optional finish: Ardent’s outdoor beer garden. Check the weather and outdoor seating before leaving.

With your dog: Leashed, well-behaved dogs welcome outdoors in beer garden only; not inside taproom. Water bowls and treats on request.
Costs: No cover stated; pay for food/drink.
Getting there: Private lot behind brewery via Highpoint Ave; gate locked at close—use street parking if leaving car longer. Free street parking in neighborhood per visit page.
Hours: Mon–Wed 12–9; Thu–Fri 12–10; Sat 11–10; Sun 12–8 (visit page).

Sources for this stop · Checked Sep 23, 2026; selected details rechecked Sep 30, 2026

A physical leash, waste bags, water and clothing and footwear suited to the weather.

Check current park and venue information before leaving. Admission, access and hours can change.