757-301-1161

Top 5 Places for Enrichment Walks in 23452 & 23464 (That Aren’t Just the Beach!)

When most people think of dog walks in Virginia Beach, they picture sandy paws and ocean breezes—but the beach isn’t the right fit for every dog. Enrichment walks are a powerful tool for behavior support, especially for dogs who are fearful, reactive, aging, or simply overwhelmed by crowds and chaos.

As a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant working with families across Virginia Beach, including 23452, 23464, 23462, and 23453, I always recommend slow, sniff-heavy walks as part of a balanced enrichment routine. You’d be surprised how many calming and mentally engaging locations are tucked away right here in your own zip code.

Why Choose Enrichment Walks Over Traditional Walks?

Enrichment walks are less about distance and more about what your dog experiences. These walks allow your dog to:

  • Sniff freely (on a long line if appropriate)

  • Set the pace and explore naturally

  • Process their environment at a safe distance

  • Build confidence and reduce reactivity or anxiety

Whether you’re working on a behavior modification plan or simply want a calmer dog at home, enrichment walks are an incredibly valuable tool. I often incorporate them into private training sessions and reactive dog programs.

Top 5 Enrichment Walks in Virginia Beach (That Aren’t the Beach!)

1. Mount Trashmore Park (23462)

Address: 310 Edwin Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23462

Why it’s great for enrichment:

Mount Trashmore is more than a hill to climb—it’s packed with sensory-rich spaces like the lakeside trails, garden areas, and quieter zones near the base of the park. Avoid the playgrounds if your dog is noise-sensitive and head to the back paths for a peaceful adventure.

Trainer Tip: Practice your loose leash walking or hand targeting here when distractions are at a manageable level.

2. Red Wing Park (23451)

Address: 1398 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Why it’s great for enrichment:

While just outside the 23452 zone, Red Wing Park is still close and worth the drive. The loop trails, open fields, and Japanese Garden offer a quieter environment for dogs who need space and structure.

Great for: Decompression walks with newly adopted dogs or shy pups who are still adjusting to their home. This is a favorite recommendation for my Ready, Set, Adopt! clients.

3. Lake Christopher Trail (23464)

Address: Around 1620 Lake Christopher Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23464

Why it’s great for enrichment:

Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, this hidden gem gives you and your dog a peaceful walking experience around the lake. With minimal foot traffic, it’s a great place for dogs working through fear, frustration, or overstimulation.

Behavior Tip: For dogs struggling with reactivity, this is a great place to implement our Engage/Disengage exercises at a safe distance.

4. Holland Road Trail Access (23453)

Address: Trail access near Dam Neck & Holland Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23453
(Use parking at Princess Anne Athletic Complex: 1111 S. Independence Blvd)

Why it’s great for enrichment:

This connector trail is ideal for long-line sniff sessions. There are natural sounds, tree cover, and opportunities to let your dog make choices—perfect for building confidence and independence in your pup.

Enrichment Tip: Scatter treats in the pine straw and practice “Find It” games here—especially helpful for puppies and senior dogs in our Great Start or fitness programs.

5. Woodstock Park (23464)

Address: 5709 Providence Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23464

Why it’s great for enrichment:

After recent renovations, Woodstock Park offers a mix of open space and quiet wooded edges where your dog can explore without being overwhelmed. There’s just enough distance from the louder sections of the park to practice calm walking and polite greetings.

Bonus: This is an excellent location to reinforce training from your puppy class or to introduce cooperative care outside the home.

Download Your Free Virginia Beach Enrichment Walk Map

Looking for a printable, GPS-linked guide to these enrichment walk spots?
Click here to download the FREE Freak on a Leash Enrichment Walk Map (PDF)

You’ll get:

  • Exact GPS locations

  • Address and zip code details

  • Behavior tips for each location

Need Help Making Walks Enjoyable Again?

Whether your dog is pulling, barking at other dogs, shutting down outside, or just not enjoying their walks, we can help. At Freak on a Leash, we offer:

Serving zip codes 23452, 23464, 23462, and 23453—plus surrounding areas.

Book a phone consultation today and let’s make walking your dog something you both look forward to.

We can help bring out the best in your dog!

Freak On A Leash dog trainers are experts in using positive reinforcement techniques. Let us help bring calm into your chaos. 

Free Phone Call