Biking on Assateague
The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is, in fact, on Assateague Island. Confusing? Maybe. Great for biking? Yes!
You can bike onto Assateague Island for free! This includes e-bikes! However, cars, mopeds, and any other vehicles with an engine have to pay the park’s entrance fees.
Unlike mopeds, our e-bikes are permitted on all the Island bike trails!
If you’re biking to the beach: please park and lock your bike in the parking lot. Bikes aren’t allowed on the beach. Saltwater and sand are a bike’s worst enemies!
Assateague (Virginia) Trail Map
On their trail system, you'll discover a connected 15-mile network perfect for immersing yourself in nature. Navigate through forests, shrub-thickets, and wetland habitats, each boasting a diverse array of wildlife. With minimal elevation changes due to the gentle terrain, the trails provide enjoyable walks and bike rides.
For those needing smoother pathways, the paved trails offer even surfaces for wheelchair users and others with assistive devices. Plan your adventure by printing your trail map in advance or grabbing one from the park service upon your arrival.
🐾 Keep in mind that pets are not permitted on Assateague, even in vehicles.
Bike Trail
Trail Length (mi)
1.93
Trail Difficulty
Easy
Suitability
Kid friendly
Bivalve Trail (Hiking Only)
Trail Length (mi)
0.15
Black Duck Trail
The Black Duck Trail diverges from the Wildlife Loop, linking with the Woodland Trail. Visitors frequent this trail for opportunities to spot turtles, songbirds, and occasional small mammals. The path is level and surfaced; however, slight bumps may be present due to tree root expansion.
Trail Length (mi)
0.55
Trail Difficulty
Easy
Route Type
Point to point
Suitability
Kid friendly
Wheelchair friendly
Marsh Trail
The Marsh Trail is an offshoot from the Wildlife Loop. Enjoy the beauty of tree swallows, dragonflies, and marsh grasses while heading towards the observation deck that provides views of Snow Goose Pool. The trail is unpaved and offers a varied surface of packed sand, stone, and grass, providing a distinctive experience for all visitors. With its mostly level terrain, the trail may be accessible for guests using mobility devices.
Trail Length (mi)
0.63
Trail Difficulty
Easy
Route Type
Point to point
Suitability
Kid friendly
Lighthouse Trail (Hiking Only)
Discover the Lighthouse Trail winding through the woods leading to the famous Assateague Lighthouse. Keep an eye out for songbirds, deer, toads, and the distinctive Delmarva peninsula fox squirrel during your journey. This scenic footpath guides visitors over a sandy hill. For those seeking an easier route, a convenient access road across from our visitor center allows for a comfortable drive to the lighthouse.
Trail Length (mi)
0.30
Trail Difficulty
Moderate
Route Type
Loop
Suitability
Kid friendly
Swan Cove Trail
Swan Cove Trail, an offshoot of the Wildlife Loop, is a popular path leading to the beach. The trail winds through shrub-filled surroundings, offering glimpses of pollinators, robust plants, and sometimes even muskrats or otters. It is a flat, paved route; however, watch out for minor bumps which may occur from tree roots sprouting along the way.
Trail Length (mi)
0.36
Trail Difficulty
Easy
Route Type
Point to point
Suitability
Kid friendly
Wheelchair friendly
Wildlife Loop
Discover the Wildlife Loop which surrounds a moist soil management unit and offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. During winter, shallow waters teem with waterfowl. In the summer, mudflats attracting shorebirds and wading birds. Take a moment at the benches or overlooks for tranquil wildlife observation. This wide, flat, paved trail is easily accessible. The Wildlife Loop also welcomes vehicular access daily from 3:00 p.m. until dusk.
Here is a hyperlapse video of a bike trip around the entire Wildlife Loop:
Biking The Wildlife Loop by Color Me Chincoteague
Trail Length (mi)
0.12
Trail Difficulty
Easy
Route Type
Loop
Suitability
Kid friendly
Wheelchair friendly
Woodland Trail
Explore the Woodland Trail as it winds through a lovely pine forest. Keep an eye out for Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrels and visit the overlook for a chance to spot the Chincoteague ponies. Lately, many woodpeckers have been drawn here due to pine tree damage from the southern pine beetle. The trail is mostly flat and paved, but expect some bumps from tree roots along the way.
Trail Length (mi)
1.75
Trail Difficulty
Easy
Route Type
Lollipop
Suitability
Kid friendly
Wheelchair friendly
Looking to rent a bike on Chincoteague?
