Mount Trashmore Park | Virginia Beach

Mount Trashmore Park, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a remarkable example of environmental reclamation and urban park development, spanning 165 acres of recreational space. What makes this park truly unique is its origin: it was created on top of a former landfill, a pioneering project that transformed what was once a waste disposal site into a thriving community green space. The park officially opened in 1974 and has since become one of the most beloved and innovative urban parks in the United States, often cited as a model for sustainable land reuse and environmental stewardship.

The centerpiece of the park is Mount Trashmore itself, a man-made hill that rises 60 feet high and extends approximately 800 feet in length. This mound was engineered by compacting layers of municipal solid waste with clean soil, then covered and landscaped to create a stable, safe environment for public use. This approach was groundbreaking at the time, demonstrating that closed landfills could be successfully repurposed for recreation and nature. The park’s design effectively addresses both ecological and social concerns, combining environmental responsibility with community benefit.

Mount Trashmore Park offers an impressive variety of recreational facilities and amenities catering to all age groups and interests. One of its most popular attractions is the Kids Cove Playground, a 26,000-square-foot play area that is fully ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for children with disabilities. This playground features a diverse range of equipment, including slides, swings, climbing structures, and notably a wheelchair-accessible swing. The playground underwent a significant renovation completed in late 2024, with a $1.6 million investment that introduced hillside slides, enhanced safety features, and improved accessibility to better serve all visitors.

Another major draw within the park is the Skate Park, a large, 24,000-square-foot facility designed to accommodate skateboarders, inline skaters, and BMX riders. It includes a two-level half-pipe, a 13.5-foot vert ramp, grind rails, and other features catering to a broad range of skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. This facility is one of the premier skateboarding venues in the region, providing a safe, dedicated space for action sports enthusiasts.

For those seeking fitness and relaxation, Mount Trashmore offers multiple walking and jogging trails that wind throughout the park. The perimeter trail stretches nearly two miles (1.95 miles), while a smaller 1.45-mile trail loops around Lake Trashmore. Along these trails, outdoor fitness stations are strategically placed, offering equipment for strength training, balance exercises, and stretching, encouraging visitors to engage in physical activity amidst a scenic natural setting.

The park also features two lakes: Lake Windsor, which is a brackish water body, and Lake Trashmore, a freshwater lake. These lakes support recreational fishing and kayaking opportunities. Anglers must hold a valid Virginia freshwater fishing license and comply with local fishing regulations, ensuring sustainable use of natural resources. The lakes enhance the park’s ecosystem and provide tranquil spots for visitors to enjoy water-based activities.

Mount Trashmore Park is well-equipped for group gatherings and family outings, offering eleven picnic shelters scattered throughout its grounds. These shelters range in size and include fully equipped charcoal grills, making them ideal for social events, celebrations, or casual meals outdoors. The availability of picnic areas enhances the park’s role as a community hub where people can connect in a natural setting.

Accessibility is a key focus of the park’s design. The entire park is ADA-compliant, with paved paths, ramps, and facilities that accommodate visitors with disabilities. This inclusivity ensures that Mount Trashmore serves as a welcoming space for everyone in the community.

The park operates daily from 7:30 AM until sunset, allowing ample daylight hours for visitors to enjoy its numerous amenities. It is located at 310 Edwin Drive in Virginia Beach, with contact information readily available for visitor inquiries and event planning.

Given Virginia Beach’s humid subtropical climate, visitors should be prepared for hot, humid summers and mild winters. Summer thunderstorms are common, so it is advisable to check weather conditions before visiting. Safety policies are strictly enforced; for example, sledding on Mount Trashmore is prohibited during snow events to prevent accidents, ensuring the park remains safe and enjoyable year-round.

Additional conveniences include equipment rental options, where visitors can borrow items like corn hole boards, badminton sets, and sports balls by presenting valid identification. These rentals encourage active participation in outdoor games and make it easier for families and groups to engage in recreational activities without needing to bring their own gear.

Overall, Mount Trashmore Park stands out as a brilliant example of how thoughtful environmental engineering and community planning can transform a potentially hazardous site into a vibrant, multi-use recreational space. It offers a diverse range of activities - from playgrounds and skateboarding to fitness trails and fishing - all within a setting that highlights sustainability and public health. The park continues to evolve with ongoing improvements and investments, maintaining its position as a cherished landmark and green oasis in Virginia Beach.