East Dike Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Wildlife

This trail is closed seasonally for wildlife. Do not enter the East Dike Trail if the gate is closed.

The East Dike Trail is a good gravel trail. Occasionally wildlife, including venomous cottonmouth snakes, cross the trail so be sure to watch your foot placement.

The East Dike Trail is one of the longest trails at Back Bay NWR. It is most popular among bikers, runners and birders. This trail starts at the end of smaller of the two parking areas. Approximately one quarter mile down the trail, stay to the left at the fork. Continue along the trail straight through the open white gate approximately one mile down the gravel path. If the gate is closed do not enter the East Dike Trail.

On this trail, visitors have views the refuge's impoundment system and the sand dunes. The impoundment system is comprised of man-made water pools which are managed to provide habitat to migratory birds throughout the year. Waterfowls (ducks, geese and swans) use this area during their winter migration. Shorebirds and wading birds are the primary residents during the spring and fall.

A variety of wildlife, including herons, egrets, ducks, swans, ospreys, deer, snakes and turtles can be seen along this trail at various points during the year. Plant life includes wax myrtle trees, live oaks, sedges, rushes, cattails and underwater vegetation are common.