Sanctuary & Trails

250 Acres of Sacred Forest, High Ridges, & Hidden Creeks.

The Heart of the Land

The land at the Community of Peace is a living sanctuary. With over 250 acres of rolling Virginia woodland, our trails are maintained through the "Work as Prayer" of our community. We invite you to lose yourself in the forest to find yourself in the spirit.

A Shared Sanctuary in the Virginia Piedmont…

Our acres are a living sanctuary where the seasons dictate the movement of our wild neighbors. To walk these trails is to witness a quiet, unfolding liturgy.

The Waters & The Air: Along the creek banks, look for the engineering of the beavers. In warmer months, the water’s edge comes alive with red dragonflies and swallowtail butterflies.

The Meadow Life: Our wildflowers are a home for ladybugs and pollinators. You may spot wild turkeys and white-tailed deer at the forest's edge.

The Forest Floor: Look for the Eastern Box Turtle moving with monastic slowness through the leaves, while Red-tailed Hawks keep watch from the thermals above.

The Wild Neighbors

Deer in beaver pool 12.17.2025

Beaver strolls by 12.26.2025

Hummer Half Speed 04.27.2025

Map of the Land

The Nature of Our Trails

Our trails are kept in their natural state to honor the wildness of the forest. Because they are natural, they require your full presence:

Terrain: Expect uneven ground, protruding stones, and rain-washout gullies.

Presence: We ask that you remain mindful of every immediate step. Walking here is a practice of "grounded meditation"—staying present with the earth beneath your feet.

Wilderness Wisdom (Safety & Awareness)

To enjoy the sanctuary safely, we ask that you remain observant of our local flora and fauna. Stewardship of the land includes respecting its natural defenses.

🌿 Poison Ivy

While we work to keep our primary paths clear, poison ivy is abundant in the Virginia woods.

  • "Leaves of Three": Look for groups of three leaves with slightly notched edges (they can be shiny or dull).

  • The "Hairy" Vine: Avoid touching the dark, "furry" vines growing up tree trunks; these are aged poison ivy vines. When in doubt, do not brush against unfamiliar foliage.

🐍 Copperhead Snakes

These beautiful, camouflaged creatures are venomous and native to the Piedmont region.

  • Respect the Warning: Copperheads are not aggressive and will not chase you, but they will defend themselves if stepped on. If you see one, simply stop, back away, and find an alternate path.

  • The Signal: If a snake coils or raises its head, it is asking for space. Always watch where you place your hands and feet, especially near rock piles or fallen logs.

🕷️ Ticks & Insect Care

Ticks are active in Virginia whenever the temperature is above freezing, peaking in the warm months.

  • The Attire: We recommend long pants (tucked into socks), long sleeves, and closed-toed hiking shoes.

  • Repellent: Feel free to apply repellent to your shoes, socks, and ankles before heading out.

  • The Check: After your walk, perform a thorough "tick check" (specifically checking hair, behind the knees, and armpits).

☀️ Seasonal Essentials

  • Hydration: The Virginia humidity can be deceptive. Please carry water with you, even for short walks.

  • Weather: In the event of high winds or approaching storms, we ask that you exit the wooded trails immediately due to the risk of falling branches.