The trail parallels the south side of the river and is a real challenge and considered the most difficult of the different sections of the James River Park System. Buttermilk combines tight, twisty, fast descents and steep climbs with lots of rocks and roots. Several creek crossings and some bridges and rock gardens add character to one of the most beloved trail systems in the Richmond area.
Buttermilk consists of three trails. Buttermilk East runs from the Manchester Bridge to 22nd street; Buttermilk Proper Trail runs from 22nd Street to 43rd Street; and Buttermilk Heights extends to the Boulevard Bridge from 43rd Street. In general Buttermilk Heights has the most climbing and rocks.
Buttermilk Heights and Proper is a part of the very popular JRPS trail loop which includes the North Bank Trail. Buttermilk East connects with the Floodwall Trail and the Potterfield Bridge, adding an extra section to the loop.
For everyone
Buttermilk is popular with birders, hikers, bikers, and dogs on leashes.
Buttermilk?
This trail was aptly named because when milk was still delivered to people’s homes, the milkman would store the buttermilk in a cool well that is still located on the side of the trail.
Hours
Open from sunrise to sunset every day.
Friends of the James River Park is a private, not-for-profit organization, and is tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Federal EIN (tax ID) number 26-3587880.
Friends of the James River Park
P.O. Box 4453
Richmond, VA 23220
friends@jamesriverpark.org