Dismal Swamp Canal Trail

The Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is a former section of Virginia State Rt. 17, now a multiuse trail open to bicycling, walking, running, horseback riding, and boating. The north trailhead is located at the intersection of Dominion Blvd and Old Rt 17 in Chesapeake, VA, and runs south 8.5 miles, adjacent to the Dismal Swamp Canal.

The Canal is the site of the popular "Paddle for the Border," which takes place in the spring. The event attracts paddlers from Maryland to Georgia, ages eight to eighty, fitness-buffs to historians, nature enthusiasts to families looking for a pleasant day's adventure.

This multipurpose-linear nature trail threads through some of the most uniquely historical and ecologically-significant habitats in the United States. The Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is an historic, environmental and outdoor recreation delight. Open to walkers, hikers, boaters, bicyclists, and horseowners, the 8.5-mile trail can provide a 17-mile bike loop or a leisurely 2-mile-up-and-back nature walk and picnic with the family. Spend a day or a couple of hours.

The Great Dismal Swamp Refuge is home to myriad species of wildlife; parts of the Refuge were surveyed by George Washington's company; the Swamp is nationally recognized as a stop on the "Underground Railroad"; the GDS Refuge is also a resting spot for thousands of migratory birds in the fall and spring. The trail is linear and flat; perfect for people of all ages to bike or walk and horseowners to ride. The Ballahack Rd./Great Dismal Swamp Boat Ramp provides easy access to launch your boat, canoe or kayak and is the location of the annual Paddle for the Border.

Directions and Maps

Map to the park

Trail Map

Native Wildlife

When spending time along the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, you will be able to see many different types of native wildlife. Next time you are planning an outing, print out a copy of these handy wildlife checklists, to see how many different types of animals you spot.

• Reptiles and Amphibians

• Mammals