What we’re about
James River Hikers - Hiking With History takes pride in our reputation as a large welcoming community offering a variety of wholesome activities that will challenge, stimulate and entertain.
Want to explore Richmond's finest scenes, activities and venues with a community of nice local people who may become your new friends? If so, you'll love James River Hikers - Hiking With History.
Check out our calendar, and you'll find something for everyone. We do hikes, and other outdoor adventures, concerts, history, lectures, social and sporting events, parties, karaoke, volunteering for community support programs and much more.
While Event Organizers provide a framework for your Meetup experience, you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. By signing up for our Meetups, you acknowledge and agree that hiking, outdoor activities and any of our Meetups carry the risk of injury or even death, and that you accept those risks. Further, you understand and accept this disclaimer and agree not to bring any type of claim against the Event Organizers, James River Hikers or other participants.
Members are requested to not smoke during James River Hiker Meetups.
How about join us?
Dennis, Founder of James River Hikers
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Apr 19, 10 AM - Malvern Hill Battlefield Hike9175 Willis Church Rd, Henrico, VA
This hike isn't long, early, brisk, challenging, or designed to meet a specific pace. Having fun and learning something is our objective. Like Goldilocks said, "It's just right!".
Near the conclusion of the Seven Days Battle in 1862 Confederate forces caught up to the retreating Union Army at this site on July 1. Had the South prevailed in this encounter, the war would have probably been over. However, having the advantage of high ground and facing a somewhat disorganized attack, the Union forces prevailed.
As with each of the other battles during the dramatic week, darkness concluded the action. Malvern Hill had demonstrated the power and efficiency of the Union artillery in particular. Confederate leaders and soldiers alike could look back on poor command and control as the principal cause of their defeat. The casualty totals were more balanced than expected for a battle in which the outcome never was in doubt. Slightly more than 5000 Confederates fell killed and wounded, while roughly 3000 Union soldiers met a similar fate.
One hundred sixty-three years later Malvern Hill is the best preserved Civil War battlefield in central or southern Virginia. Nearly unaltered in appearance since 1862, the battlefield's rural setting and extensive walking trails offer an ideal environment for visitors to study the climactic battle of the Seven Days Campaign. You will first observe the field of fire from the vantage point of the Union artillery, then move into the woods where the Confederate forces attempted to get organized for a frontal attack, and lastly emerge from the cover of the forest to retrace the ill fated charges into the teeth of the Union gunfire. It's a very sobering experience.
This is a hike of approximately three miles over woodland trails and open fields. All 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 it (some say, "It's really out in the Boonies"). Use the inset map located under "How To Find Us" to get directions. This is very accurate and is probably your best chance to locate the Meet Up.
Participants should be able to maintain a pace of 2.5 miles per hour and possess the ability to negotiate rocks, roots, low hanging branches, uncertain footing on hills, steep ascents and descents, stream crossings, bridges and toxic plants in season. Parking is somewhat limited so come early, carpool or be prepared to locate roadside parking on the grass.
• What to bring
- Water bottle, clothing appropriate for the season, practical footwear, band aids, insect repellent, cap, visor or bonnet & a change of dry clothing for after hike activities
- Anticipated weather on hike day
- This is a certified dog friendly hike.
- Police Non-emergency Number --> 804-646-5100
- Restroom facilities may be scarce so plan accordingly
