Mount Trashmore Park | Virginia Beach

Mount Trashmore Park is a 165.5-acre public park located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA. It is constructed on a former landfill site.

Visual Characteristics

The park features two large hills, formed from compacted trash and covered with soil and vegetation. The slopes are covered in grass, with scattered trees and paved pathways. A large lake, Lake Trashmore, is situated between the two hills. The park's elevation provides panoramic views of the surrounding urban landscape.

Location & Access Logistics

Mount Trashmore Park is located at 300 N. Lynnhaven Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23452. It is approximately 5 miles west of the Atlantic Ocean and 7 miles west of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Access is via Independence Boulevard (US-13) or Lynnhaven Road. The park has multiple parking lots, including a main lot near the visitor center and overflow lots. Public transport is available via the Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) bus system; Route 19 stops near the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The site was originally a municipal landfill that operated from 1961 to 1972. The transformation into a park began in the late 1970s, with the first phase of development completed in 1978. The park's creation is an example of land reclamation and adaptive reuse of urban waste.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include walking, jogging, and cycling on paved trails. Two large hills are popular for kite flying. The park features two playgrounds, a skate park, and a 24-acre lake stocked with fish for recreational fishing. Picnic areas with grills are available. The park hosts various community events throughout the year.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at multiple locations within the park, including near the visitor center and playgrounds. Shaded areas are provided by mature trees and covered picnic shelters. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the park. Food vendors are not permanently stationed within the park, but are often present during special events.

Best Time to Visit

The park is accessible year-round from dawn to dusk. For kite flying, windy conditions are optimal, typically occurring during spring and fall. For photography, early morning or late afternoon light offers softer illumination. Lake Trashmore is best for fishing during warmer months (spring through fall).

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of Mount Trashmore is its status as one of the largest capped landfills in the United States, demonstrating successful environmental remediation. A lesser-known fact is that the park's construction involved over 1.5 million cubic yards of waste material.

Nearby Landmarks

• Virginia Beach Sportsplex (0.8km Southeast)
• Mount Trashmore Skate Park (0.2km West)
• Lake Trashmore (0.1km Southwest)
• Lynnhaven Mall (1.5km Northeast)
• Princess Anne Athletic Complex (1.2km South)