Best Hiking Trails in First Landing State Park
From the park's Trail Center, discover 19mi. of trails that lead through numerous landscapes, including wetlands, maritime forest, and shoreline. Bike and hike along coastal trails, and discover a plethora of wildlife on your way. The following are a few special trails you can discover when you stay in First Landing State Park cabins.
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1. Cape Henry Trail
Six miles long, this trail eventually connects with the Virginia Beach boardwalk after transporting you through cypress swamps and forests. It is the longest and most popular trail in the park.
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2. Bald Cypress Trail
Discover fascinating ecology and wildlife from the trail's boardwalks and observation platforms set over coastal wetlands. Forested dunes run along the entirety of this 1.5mi. loop trail. Trail guides explaining more about the local wildlife are available at the Visitor Center.
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3. Long Creek Trail
Spectacular views of both lake and wetlands reward hikers on this coastal trail. Following the fringe of the bay through wetlands for five miles, the trail is one of the best in the park for avid birdwatchers. You can also spot wildlife from the salt marsh boardwalks.
Best Family Activities in First Landing State Park
Whether you are cavorting at the park's playground, biking, or boating on the bay, there is so much for families to discover from the plethora of nearby First Landing State Park hotels.
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1. Explore Native American heritage
Children love the recreation Native American houses dotting the Cape Henry Trail. Between the picnic area and the trailhead, these structures let you experience first-hand what the dwelling places of the park's first denizens were like. Learn more from the accompanying park pamphlet.
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2. Learn about local wildlife and history
A variety of guided Ranger walks and talks depart throughout the high season from the Chesapeake Bay Center. You'll gain insight into the wildlife and fascinating Native American history of the park. Children will be enthralled by engaging movies at the amphitheater on Wednesday nights, while wildlife walks are engaging and informative.
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3. Enjoy a picnic
Family meals in nature are bliss. Barbecue at the picnic facilities located adjacent to the main trailhead and cycling trail. There are bathrooms and picnic tables in this sun-dappled spot, which makes for the perfect rest stop in between outdoor adventures.