Description
With 8.5 miles of converted road bed, this multi-use trail allows people of all abilities to explore the wildlife of the Great Dismal Swamp. Running alongside the Dismal Swamp Canal and bordering both Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and Cavalier Wildlife Management Area-Dismal Swamp Tract-this trail offers a variety of habitats in an easily accessible setting. Bird life abounds as well as butterflies and dragonflies. Bear, bobcat, and otter frequent this area. Keep an eye out for any of the numerous reptiles and amphibians that inhabit the swamp. Abutting the single largest tract of land in the region-this trail provides a variety of wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities.
Wildlife Sightings
156 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Dismal Swamp Canal Trail:
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 8 Jan 2026 | 33 | Jeff Kendle |
| 8 Jan 2026 | 33 | Dr Dean BOHON |
| 14 Dec 2025 | 1 | Dr Dean BOHON |
| 14 Dec 2025 | 1 | Kenneth Markley |
| 15 Nov 2025 | 1 | Thomas Swope |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
- Birdability Report Available
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Other Amenities: Bike Trails, Hiking Trails, Interpretive Program/Events
Accessibility Considerations
This location has a Birdability Site Review available
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
Maps & Directions
Address: 1200 Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, Chesapeake, VA 23323
From Norfolk, take I-464 South to Chesapeake and follow I – 464 SOUTH to Route 17 South. Follow Route 17 South beyond intersection with Route 165.
- To park at the Northern Trailhead, turn right onto Route 17 BUS – George Washington Hwy. Follow Route 17 BUS about ½ mile to the trail entrance on left.
- To park at the Boat Ramp/ Ballahack Rd, continue on Route 17 South beyond mile marker 4. Turn right onto Ballahack Rd.
After visiting the site, turn right onto US 17 Business/George Washington Hwy. Follow this road to US 17 North and continue to I-64.
Site Information
Access Requirements:
- Daily, Sunrise to Sunset
Contact Information:
- 757-382-6411, ContactPRT@cityofchesapeake.net
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.