Jamestown Island Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Fishing · Geological Significance · Historical Significance · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Wonderful for running, cycling, hiking or driving, this location has geological, historical and archeological significance. The original Jamestowne settlement and fort were located here in the early 1600s. Operated by the National Park Service, the "Jamestown Island Drive" is a well-maintained asphalt drive.

There are no restroom facilities or water along the route.

Mostly a flat, asphalt surface, the loop actually contains two options: The long loop, which is about 5 miles long, and the shorter loop, which is about 3 miles long. This area is mostly forested with breaks over water which are spanned by wooden bridges. Vehicular and foot traffic is shared on the same road. Vehicles can only transit counter-clockwise, but pedestrians can circulate in either direction. One may park on the mainland and begin the loop from there, which adds about 2 miles to the trail. There is wildlife and a variety of historical and natural features along the path. There are some pull-off areas of interest that feature informational stations. Parking is free at the Visitor Center on the actual island.

An abundance of native and non-native flora species exists here. On quiet days one may encounter small mammals, deer, a variety of birds and, depending on the season, reptiles, amphibians and plenty of insects.

This is the site of the original 1600s Jamestowne Settlement and Fort.