Secluded Farm
Scenic 3.5-mile loop near Monticello, offering woodlands, an arboretum, pond, and historical connections. Perfect for walks and bikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Secluded Farm
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic 3.5-mile loop near Monticello, offering woodlands, an arboretum, pond, and historical connections. Perfect for walks and bikes.
"Beautifully maintained with wide gravel trails and recent dog-friendly updates, it's a wonderful walk."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Update
Good news! Dogs are now permitted on the boardwalk, making it a great spot for furry friends. :dog:
🥾 Waterproof Footwear
Be prepared for muddy patches, especially after rain, as the stream can cross the trail. Waterproof boots are a good idea. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Saunders-Monticello Trail
Charlottesville, VA
Scenic 3.5-mile loop with diverse terrain, offering beautiful views and a connection to history.
Monticello Loop
Charlottesville, VA
A historic trail offering a glimpse into the past with unique architectural elements and natural beauty.
Arboretum & Pond
Saunders-Monticello Trail
Explore a variety of trees and enjoy a peaceful moment by the tranquil pond.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Accessibility
Parking & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Update
Good news! Dogs are now permitted on the boardwalk, making it a great spot for furry friends. :dog:
🥾 Waterproof Footwear
Be prepared for muddy patches, especially after rain, as the stream can cross the trail. Waterproof boots are a good idea. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots are small; aim for early mornings or weekdays to guarantee a spot. :car:
📸 Capture the Views
The trail offers beautiful scenery, perfect for photos. Don't forget your camera or phone! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Update
Good news! Dogs are now permitted on the boardwalk, making it a great spot for furry friends. :dog:
🥾 Waterproof Footwear
Be prepared for muddy patches, especially after rain, as the stream can cross the trail. Waterproof boots are a good idea. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots are small; aim for early mornings or weekdays to guarantee a spot. :car:
📸 Capture the Views
The trail offers beautiful scenery, perfect for photos. Don't forget your camera or phone! :camerawithflash:
🌳 Add to iNaturalist
Contribute to the iNaturalist project by documenting the local flora and fauna you encounter. :seedling:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Saunders-Monticello Trail for its beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and recent dog-friendly updates. The trail offers a pleasant experience for walking and biking, with opportunities for nature observation. Some find parking challenging due to small lots, and certain sections can be muddy after rain, requiring appropriate footwear.
"Ready to walk. Lots to see if you need to go slow. Parking is a bit tricky but the trail is self is so nice and easy to walk."
Sarah Worsham
"Edit: I changed my rating due to the changes they did indeed make! I included a picture of the new signage allowing dogs on the boardwalk! We have a wonderful walk and will definitely return :)
Beautifully maintained with wide gravel trails. I felt limited in where I could go since dogs aren’t allowed on the boardwalk. Parking lots are small but I was able to get a spot easily on a weekday."
Elisa Kim
"great trail! cool stuff to see, and an invitation to add to the iNaturalist project. really nice bridges/overpasses"
Tyler M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Saunders-Monticello Trail is located in Charlottesville, Virginia. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available at designated lots along the trail. Many visitors use GPS navigation to find the trailheads.
Public transportation options to the immediate vicinity of the trail might be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the trailheads.
The trail is well-marked, but having a trail map or using a navigation app on your phone can be helpful, especially for exploring different loops.
Access to the Saunders-Monticello Trail itself is typically free. However, if you plan to visit Monticello mansion, separate admission fees apply.
From downtown Charlottesville, you can typically take roads like Jefferson Park Avenue or 5th Street SW, which will lead you towards the Monticello area and the trail access points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Saunders-Monticello Trail is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. You can enjoy the trails and natural beauty for free.
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check local advisories for any temporary closures or specific hours.
There is no specific fee for parking at the trailheads. However, parking spaces are limited and can fill up quickly.
Yes, the Saunders-Monticello Trail connects to the Monticello grounds. If you wish to tour the mansion, you will need to purchase separate admission tickets for Monticello. +1
The main restriction is regarding pets on certain boardwalk sections, though this has recently been updated to allow dogs on the boardwalk. Always be mindful of park rules and regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main loop is approximately 3.5 miles and is considered an easy to moderate hike, suitable for most fitness levels. It features a mix of gravel paths and boardwalks.
You'll encounter beautiful woodlands, scenic views, an arboretum with diverse trees, and a peaceful pond. It's a great place for nature lovers and photographers. +1
Restroom facilities may be limited directly on the trail. It's advisable to use facilities at the trailhead or at nearby Monticello if available.
Yes, the Saunders-Monticello Trail is suitable for biking, offering a pleasant ride through the natural landscape.
Yes, dogs are now allowed on the boardwalk sections of the trail, which is a recent and welcome change for pet owners. :dog:
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic overlooks, the tranquil pond, the diverse trees in the arboretum, and the charming bridges and overpasses. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities. +1
Absolutely! The trail is rich with diverse plant life and potential wildlife sightings, making it ideal for nature photographers. Consider contributing to iNaturalist.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and historic sites. It's best to check specific regulations for the Saunders-Monticello Trail and Monticello area to avoid any issues.
While the trail offers views of the surrounding landscape, direct, unobstructed views of Monticello mansion from the trail itself might be limited. You'll get closer views when visiting the mansion.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Recent updates allowing dogs on the boardwalk are a bonus for families with pets. Remember to pack snacks and water, and consider bringing a stroller or carrier for very young children, as some sections might be uneven. The iNaturalist project offers a fun way to turn the walk into a nature scavenger hunt for kids.
🐶 Pet Owners
While dogs are welcome, always keep them on a leash and be mindful of other visitors. Ensure you bring waste bags to clean up after your pet. The trail's natural beauty and varied terrain provide an enjoyable outing for both you and your dog.
🚶♀️ Casual Walkers & Beginners
Focus on the accessible sections, like the boardwalks, and take breaks as needed. The natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it a rewarding experience even for those who don't hike regularly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Saunders-Monticello Trail
This trail is more than just a walk; it's an experience that connects you with the natural beauty of the region and offers a glimpse into its history. The trail features an arboretum with a variety of trees and a serene pond, providing peaceful spots for reflection. Recent updates have enhanced the visitor experience, including new signage and the addition of trash cans throughout the path.
For those looking to engage further, the trail is part of an iNaturalist project, encouraging visitors to document the local flora and fauna. This adds an educational layer to the visit, making it a great activity for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Historical Significance and Monticello
Walking the trail can evoke a sense of the landscape that Thomas Jefferson himself would have experienced. The trail's design and the surrounding environment aim to provide a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere, complementing the historical significance of the nearby Monticello estate.
Visitors often use the trail as a way to decompress or enjoy the outdoors before or after a tour of Monticello. The trail's accessibility and natural beauty make it a valuable addition to any visit to the Charlottesville area, offering a different perspective on the region's heritage and landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit