Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
20
Belle Haven to Dyke Marsh
Visit one of the area's largest freshwater tidal marshes. Dyke Marsh is home to almost 400 plant species
and is popular with birders.
Distance: 3.5 miles total, combining two out-and-back sections
Approximate hiking time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Trail surface: Boardwalks, paved trail, and natural surfaces
Best seasons: Year-round
Other trail users: Cyclists, runners on the Mount Vernon Trail portion only
Canine compatibility: Dogs not permitted
Fees and permits: None
Schedule: Trail always open; parking lot closes at dusk
Maps: See www.nps.gov/gwmp for a Mount Vernon Trail map.
Trail contact: George Washington Memorial Parkway Headquarters, Turkey Run Park,
McLean, VA 22101; (703) 289-2500; www.nps.gov/gwmp
Finding the trailhead:
From the George Washington Memorial Parkway heading
south out of Alexandria, turn left into the parking lot for Belle Haven Park and Marina.
The trailhead is at the parking lot. GPS: N38 46.730' / W77 03.101'
The Hike
Leave the city behind as you enter Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve, a large freshwater tidal wetland. The
area has open water, marsh, and swamp, and is home to many plants and animals. Follow the “Haul
Road” trail into the marsh. The river soon comes into view on your left as you pass by boats anchored
around the Belle Haven Marina. As you make your way farther out into the marsh, you can hear the
noise of the city disappear and feel a sense of calm descend. At the very end of the boardwalk is a field
of narrow-leafed cattails that bloom in June.
