From local Nature preserves and beaches to multi-use hiking trails or hard surface cycling paths, there is something for everyone! And almost all of the trails and paths provide views of local waterways and of estuaries of the Chesapeake Bay. While warm weather is certainly preferred for most beach trips, and definitely for swimming, Winter months can also be a rewarding time for hiking, beachcombing, and nature walks. There are many hidden gems in “our area” for spending some time in nature. Here, we will highlight a few sites, some that are just minutes from the Inn and a few from 30 minutes to an hour. All of these nature hikes are worth the visit and the drives to and from boast amazing scenic views.
Beaverdam Park
Located in neighboring Gloucester County, just a half hour away is Beaverdam Reservoir Park. This park is centered around a 635-acre freshwater lake. The park has over 9 miles of trails and provides the only freshwater fishing on the Middle Peninsula. There are several trails to choose from including the longer multi-use trail, and a shorter “Nature Trail” that follows the waters edge.
The Multi-use trail here provides stunning water views and great opportunities for birding and other wildlife viewing. This trail is also open to cyclists and horse-riders. Look for many species of native plants and trees. River otters, beavers, ducks and other waterfowl and many other reptiles including snakes and turtles are just some of the wildlife you will see on your journey through Beaverdam park.
Beaverdam is great for photographers, as the lake provides a lovely backdrop for wildlife and nature shots. Birders will marvel at the woodpeckers and ducks that can be seen throughout the park.
This site has public restroom facilities, picnic shelters, water filling station and even paddle boats for rent! The park also coordinates group walking tours, hosts fishing competitions and other seasonal or holiday related events.
Machicomoco State Park
Virginias newest State Park is located in Gloucester and overlooks the York River. This beautiful new state park is only 45 minutes away and has several hiking, cycling and nature trails to enjoy.
Machicomoco is located approximately 10 miles down river of Werowocomoco, the village that served as the headquarters for Chief Powhatan. Machicomoco State Park was developed to raise funding for land acquisition, visitor interpretation facilities, archeological investigation and preservation associated with Werowocomoco. This park is bountiful in natural resources, including land used for agriculture, maritime forest, marsh, uplands, wetlands, and estuarine habitat.
Machicomoco has a 3.3 mile paved foot and bicycle trail that circles the main road of the park. The Nature Trail runs 2.4 miles. The surrounding land provides diverse wildlife habitats, from open fields to woodlands and waterfront/marsh areas supporting deer, turkey, and many species of songbirds and birds of prey.
Gloucester County has plenty of spots to drink and dine on your way back to the Inn. Gloucester’s Historic Courthouse area is a great spot for parking and walking around for some shopping and getting a bite to eat.
Local Nature Preserves and Beaches
Just a few miles from the Inn is one of Mathews’ most beautiful beaches, Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve. Home to over 220 different species of birds, many rare plants and the endangered North Eastern Beach Tiger Beetle. This long stretch of beach is great for walking at sunrise or sunset, beachcombing, photography, picnics, and birdwatching.
Other local beaches include Haven Beach which is a good beach for swimming and fishing, and Hallieford Beach which is great for a quick swim.
Hughlett Point Natural Area Preserve
if you’re looking for a unique day trip to the Northern Neck, don’t miss Hughlett Point! Start this wildlife walk in the shade of the woods and finish with bare toes in the sand.
Chesapeake Bay
wooded boardwalk
Hughlett Point is a 204-acre nature preserve , just under an hours drive from the Inn, situated along the Chesapeake Bay. This area preserves various types of habitats, including tidal and non-tidal wetlands, undeveloped beaches, dunes, and upland forests. The site includes 1.8 miles of trails, a woodland boardwalk, wildlife viewing platforms, and interpretive signs.
Hughlett Point is an important wintering area for migrating waterfowl and songbirds, and provides habitat for bald eagles, osprey and northern harriers.
Parking is limited to an 11 spot lot. If the lot is full, try riding down to the Dameron Marsh Preserve area. Warm summer days definitely attract more visitors. Winter months can be the best times for birdwatching anyway!
After your woodland beach walk, the quaint towns of Irvington and Kilmarnock can offer a bite to eat or drink, and some small town shopping.
