
Mount Trashmore Skyline Trail Virginia Beach
Climb a unique mountain made from a former landfill for breathtaking panoramic views of Virginia Beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Mount Trashmore Skyline Trail Virginia Beach
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb a unique mountain made from a former landfill for breathtaking panoramic views of Virginia Beach.
"Great views of downtown the river and other parts of the city from the top."

☀️ Beat the Sun
No shade here! Visit early or late to avoid direct sun. Wear sunscreen and a hat.
🚗 Drive Up Access
Handicap placard holders can drive to the summit for incredible views.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Summit
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the city skyline, river, and surrounding areas from the top of this unique landmark.

Unique Landfill Transformation
Entire Park
Witness a remarkable transformation of a former landfill into a vibrant recreational space with walking and biking trails.

Flow Mountain Bike Trail
Designated Bike Path
Experience a beginner-friendly downhill mountain bike trail, perfect for those looking for a bit of adrenaline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Accessibility & Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Mt Trashmore: if you haven't gone yet, do it! 👍🏾
☀️ Beat the Sun
No shade here! Visit early or late to avoid direct sun. Wear sunscreen and a hat.
🚗 Drive Up Access
Handicap placard holders can drive to the summit for incredible views.
Mount Trashmore trails open on Thursday
🚴 Bike Trails Galore
Bring your mountain bike for the dedicated flow trail – great for beginners!
🚶♀️ Easy Inclines
Trails are not technical, offering a good workout without being too strenuous.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Beat the Sun
No shade here! Visit early or late to avoid direct sun. Wear sunscreen and a hat.
🚗 Drive Up Access
Handicap placard holders can drive to the summit for incredible views.
🚴 Bike Trails Galore
Bring your mountain bike for the dedicated flow trail – great for beginners!
🚶♀️ Easy Inclines
Trails are not technical, offering a good workout without being too strenuous.
⏰ Check Hours
Hours can vary, so always confirm operating times before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mount Trashmore's unique concept, transforming a former landfill into a park with stunning city views. The accessible trails and the option to drive to the summit are highly praised, making it a great spot for all ages and abilities. However, the lack of shade can make visits uncomfortable during peak sun hours.
"Best view of the Cedar Rapids skyline and a unique hiking experience.
Limited access hours, check website to confirm the hours of operation or closures.
Short, easy trails that work for all ages and ability levels. Flow mountain bike downhill, great for beginners. Nice seating area with city view at the top of the hike.
As this is an old landfill, there is no shade from trees. Plan the time of your hike and attire to feel comfortable in the full sun."
Katy Santiago
"A little bit of something different to do in cedar rapids. Go climb a 200 ft incline of a mountain that was the city's dump for about 50 years. Great views of downtown the river and other parts of the city from the top. You. An choose to take the trail or the road to the top. There is also a path for bikes."
Craig Brophy
"Best views of the city from here. I really love that they have opened this up as a trail. It’s a fairly easy inclined trail that can be done multiple times if you really want more exercise. There’s a trail for bikes which I wish I had a mountain bike to hit."
Trevor Hyatt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Trashmore is located in Virginia Beach, VA. You can typically drive to the park entrance. Parking is available, and the trails are clearly marked from there. It's a well-known local spot, so GPS should guide you easily.
Information on public transportation options to Mount Trashmore can be limited. It's best to check the local Virginia Beach transit authority website for current bus routes and schedules that might serve the park area.
Mount Trashmore offers ample parking throughout the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. There are several lots, especially near the main recreational areas and trailheads.
Access to Mount Trashmore is typically limited to daylight hours. While some visitors express a desire for sunrise or sunset access, the park generally closes after dusk. Always check the official park hours.
Yes, Mount Trashmore is easily accessible for visitors. It's a prominent landmark in Virginia Beach and is well-signposted from major roadways. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mount Trashmore is a public park and generally does not require tickets for entry. Access to the trails and general park areas is free for all visitors.
Operating hours for Mount Trashmore can vary seasonally and may be subject to change. It's crucial to check the official Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation website or call ahead to confirm the current hours of operation and any potential closures.
There is no admission fee to enter Mount Trashmore Park. The park is a public amenity, and enjoying the trails, views, and recreational facilities is free of charge.
Yes, you can drive to the top of Mount Trashmore if you possess a valid handicap placard. This accessibility feature allows individuals with mobility challenges to enjoy the summit views without hiking.
It's always a good idea to check the official Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation website for any upcoming events, festivals, or scheduled maintenance that might affect access or cause temporary closures at Mount Trashmore.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
Mount Trashmore offers a variety of activities including walking and hiking trails, a dedicated mountain bike trail, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The main attraction is the panoramic view from the summit.
The trails at Mount Trashmore are generally considered easy to moderate. They are short, inclined paths that are not technical, making them suitable for most fitness levels and ages.
Yes, Mount Trashmore is very family-friendly. It features playgrounds and wide, easy trails that are manageable for young children. The unique nature of climbing a former landfill can also be engaging for kids.
From the summit of Mount Trashmore, you can expect breathtaking, 360-degree views of the Virginia Beach skyline, the Elizabeth River, and the surrounding cityscape.
No, there is very little natural shade at Mount Trashmore as it was built on a former landfill. Visitors should plan accordingly by wearing sun protection and staying hydrated, especially during warmer months.
📸 camera_with_flash Photography
The best times for photography are during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – for soft, warm light. Midday can be harsh due to the lack of shade.
You can capture stunning panoramic cityscapes, interesting perspectives of the park's unique landscape, and action shots if you're visiting with cyclists or runners.
Drone usage regulations can vary by park. It's essential to check the official Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation guidelines regarding drone operation within Mount Trashmore Park before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for various shots. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance sky colors and reduce glare.
While the views are spectacular, access after dark or before sunrise is typically not permitted. However, the late afternoon light leading up to sunset can still offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the accessibility, as the paved paths are stroller-friendly. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there's limited shade. The drive-up option for those with handicap placards also ensures that all family members can enjoy the summit views together.
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
The dedicated mountain bike trail adds another dimension for fitness lovers. It's a well-regarded beginner trail that offers a fun, adrenaline-pumping ride. Whether you prefer walking, running, or cycling, Mount Trashmore provides a scenic and unique environment to stay active.
📸 Photographers
While the lack of shade can be challenging during midday, the 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting conditions. The park's transformation from a landfill to a recreational hub also presents interesting visual narratives. Consider visiting during weekdays for fewer crowds, allowing for more unobstructed shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique History of Mount Trashmore
This ambitious project not only reclaimed valuable land but also provided a unique recreational space for the community. The park's design incorporates walking paths, a lake, and even a dedicated mountain bike trail, all built atop what was once considered unusable refuse. It's a fascinating example of environmental remediation and creative land use, offering visitors a chance to literally walk on history.
Visitors often express surprise and admiration for this transformation. The park's existence serves as a constant reminder of how urban environments can evolve and repurpose even the most challenging sites into vibrant community assets.
Navigating the Trails and Activities
For those seeking more adventure, a dedicated mountain bike trail offers a fun, beginner-friendly downhill experience. Cyclists can enjoy the thrill of the ride while navigating the park's contours. The trails are designed to be engaging without being overly technical, making them suitable for a wide range of skill levels.
Many visitors appreciate the flexibility of the park's layout, allowing them to choose their preferred activity, whether it's a simple stroll to enjoy the scenery or a more active pursuit like biking. The ability to drive to the top with a handicap placard further enhances the park's inclusivity.






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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit