Description
An elevated walkway crossing the railroad tracks allows the naturalist an opportunity for treetop birding, which can be an excellent venue for spotting warblers, vireos, and flycatchers during migration.
The bridge over the train tracks allows for treetop birding. Look for warblers during migration. Photo Credit: Lisa Mease/DWR
The trail leads to a short path through the riparian woodlands that line the riverbanks and onward to large boulders that have to be hopped in order to pass through large channels, ending at the river. This is a wonderful inner-city oasis to find a variety of birds such as, bald eagle, osprey, and warblers. In winter, look for a variety of waterfowl along the James River.
Notes:
- Areas close to the river are subject to flooding. Check water levels here before heading out.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at 42nd Street Entrance, James River Park System:
- Canada Goose
- Tundra Swan
- Gadwall
- Mallard
- American Black Duck
- Canvasback
- Ring-necked Duck
- Bufflehead
- Common Goldeneye
- Ring-billed Gull
192 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Feb 2026 | 29 | Andrew Rapp |
| 18 Jan 2026 | 12 | Aimee Sobon |
| 17 Jan 2026 | 35 | Diane Bowden |
| 17 Jan 2026 | 45 | K Cook |
| 17 Jan 2026 | 45 | Steve Roble |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Site Amenities: Bike Trails, Hiking Trails
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 4401 Riverside Dr., Richmond, VA 23225
From I-95 in downtown Richmond, take the VA-195/Downtown Expressway exit, follow signs for US-60/Canal Street and merge onto E. Canal Street, turn left onto S. 9th Street, take the U.S. 60 W/Semmes Avenue ramp and turn right onto US-60 W/Semmes Avenue, turn right onto W. 22nd Street, turn left onto Riverside Drive, and the parking area is on the right. This route has tolls; please consult your navigation app of choice for routes without tolls.
Site Information
Managed By:
- 0
Access Requirements:
Contact Information:
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.