Trails on the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Trails
The refuge maintains several miles of trails for either hiking or biking. Major recreational activities include wildlife/wildland observation, photography, education, and sheer enjoyment of the outdoors. About half are paved while the rest are open to foot traffic only.
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Wildlife Loop
The Wildlife Loop is a 3¼ mile loop around a moist soil management unit and is a great place to observe wildlife, especially waterfowl and wading birds. It is open to walkers and bikers throughout the day, but vehicles are only permitted to drive on it from 3:00 P.M. till dusk.
OPEN
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Lighthouse Trail
The Lighthouse Trail is a ¼ mile foot path through the woods to the historic Assateague Lighthouse. It is for walking only.
OPEN
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Swan Cove Trail
Swan Cove Trail, which branches off of the Wildlife Loop, is about ½ mile long and leads to the beach. Swan Cove Trail is open to both walkers and bikers.
OPEN
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Black Duck Trail
Black Duck Trail branches off of the Wildlife Loop. It is about 1 mile long and provides access between the Wildlife Loop and the Woodland Trail. This trail is for walking and biking.
OPEN
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Marsh Trail
The Marsh Trail is a ½ mile looping trail along the Wildlife Loop. This unpaved trail, open only to walkers, includes an observation platform overlooking Snow Goose Pool.
OPEN
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Woodland Trail
The 1½ mile Woodland Trail takes hikers and bikers through a beautiful pine forest and includes an overlook where you can sometimes see wild ponies.
Most visitors are unaware of the new *Bivalve Trail that lies just off the beaten path of the Woodland Trail. Take this self guided adventure through the maritime forest leading to a section of Toms Cove where you can catch a glimpse of the old livesaving station or engage in clamming.
*This trail is not yet marked.
OPEN
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Service Road
Besides the above trails, foot access is permitted on our 7½ mile Service Road. Cars and bicycles are not permitted on the service road.
OPEN
