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Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
4.6 ★★★★★ 1,084 Google reviews · Running trail in Suffolk, Virginia · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Home to birds, bears, otters & other animals, this vast preserve offers hunting, fishing & tours.
What runners say about Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
“The well-maintained trails provide a smooth journey, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without worrying about rough terrain.”
“The swamp itself is peaceful and hauntingly beautiful, with its still waters, towering trees, and quiet trails that feel like stepping back in time.”
“The trails are well marked, and we even came across a Spotted Turtle, which we loved.”
“The swamp itself is peaceful and hauntingly beautiful, with its still waters, towering trees, and quiet trails that feel like stepping back in time.”
Visiting the Great Dismal Swamp was an unforgettable experience—both for its natural beauty and its powerful historical significance. The swamp itself is peaceful and hauntingly beautiful, with its still waters, towering trees, and quiet trails that feel like stepping back in time.
This was a breath taking gorgeous place in nature . So Glad I made the choice to drive through walk/ through. If you're looking for peacefulness and the wild life this is the spot! Or quick you can drive your family out self through and get a glance of the beautiful lake at the end. Words can't describe!
Biking through the Great Dismal Swamp Park was an unforgettable experience. The lush greenery and serene waters create a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely ride. The well-maintained trails provide a smooth journey, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without worrying about rough terrain.
My family and I went on a hike on the Jericho Ditch Trail. This part of the Great Dismal Swamp is beautiful. The trail is flat and easy to navigate, even with a baby stroller. Our dogs loved it and we had a great time there.
Trail conditions & character
“What we did see in the road, despite no warning signage, was an OTTER and a deer 😆 Though we didn't get out to walk the paths, we did get out to view the lake.”
“We were surprised that there was a well maintained bathroom there.”
“All boardwalks on the Auto Tour need work, because of this none are wheelchair accessible.”
“The swamp itself is peaceful and hauntingly beautiful, with its still waters, towering trees, and quiet trails that feel like stepping back in time.”
“It’s truly hard to put into words the level of which this place shakes my soul.”
“The trails are well marked, and we even came across a Spotted Turtle, which we loved.”
“We were not sure where we were going so we walked all the short pavilions and boardwalk that were off to the side of the road heading to lake Drummond.”
Plan your run at Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitefws.gov
- Phone+1 757-986-3705
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Suffolk
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Jerico-Hudnell Ditch Trailhead
4.5 ★★★★★ 11 reviews
Black Bear Trail Bridge 2
4.1 ★★★★☆ 9 reviews
Deep Creek Park
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City park with several ball fields, a dog run, playground, walking trail & picnic/grilling areas.
