Hiking

Experience barrier-island life on short nature loops and long beach walks. Soft sand is harder than it looks, so plan water, sun protection, and insect defense.

Assateague guide Official NPS

Summary for Ocean City visitors based on National Park Service Assateague guidance. Fees, hours, closures, and permit prices change—confirm on nps.gov/asis before you go.

Overview

Assateague has paved and unpaved trails plus 37 miles of beach open for hiking. Barrier-island hiking means heat, humidity, biting insects, fast storms, and changing tides.

Maryland short loops include Life of the Dunes (~¾ mile), Life of the Forest (~½ mile), and Life of the Marsh (~½ mile). Virginia/refuge trails include longer loops such as the Wildlife Loop and Service Road—confirm maps for the district you visit.

Beach hiking is more strenuous than hard-surface trails. Soft, uneven sand and few landmarks make distances easy to underestimate. Low tide often offers firmer footing.

Highlights

Carry sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and water year-round; add insect repellent and light long sleeves in summer.
Know sunset time—getting caught after dark in buggy unfamiliar terrain is miserable.
Seasonal closures protect nesting birds and resources; check visitor centers before long hikes.
Sturdy shoes beat flip-flops on long sand walks; wet sand-filled shoes cause abrasions.

Official National Park Service links

More Assateague topics

Plan your visit

Directions, fees, hours, weather, visitor centers, and what to pack from Ocean City.

Camping

Oceanside and bayside campsites, reservations, and backcountry options on Assateague.

Wildlife & wild horses

Feral horses, birds, and viewing tips—keep a safe distance and never feed wildlife.

Biking

Several miles of bike trails wind through Maryland and Virginia districts of the island.

Swimming & surfing

Swim at your own risk—strong surf and currents. Read beach and surf safety first.

Canoeing & kayaking

Launch from designated areas; respect weather, tides, and currents. Seasonal rentals in Maryland.

Surf fishing

Surf cast for flounder, drum, blues, and more—Maryland license required; no fishing in lifeguard beaches.

Crabbing & clamming

Blue crabs and bay shellfish—check size limits and seasons at the visitor center.

Horseback riding

Seasonal riding along the beach in the Over Sand Vehicle (OSV) zone.

Over Sand Vehicles (OSV)

Beach-driving permits via recreation.gov—equipment rules, density limits, and nesting closures.

Ranger-guided programs

Seasonal guided walks and talks that unlock barrier-island ecology and history.

Safety

Surf, sun, insects, ticks, lightning, wildlife distance, and emergency basics.

Shell collecting

Limit collecting to a gallon or less of unoccupied shells so beach life keeps its habitat.

Hunting

Regulated hunting opportunities exist—confirm seasons, permits, and safety zones with NPS.