Life of the Dunes Trail — Attraction in Assateague Island

Love the outdoors. This is a different kind of hiking🚶‍♀️experience. Amazing Legg workout in the sand. It feels like walking 🚶‍♂️ in the desert and then walking 🚶‍♂️ in the forest, but unexpectedly, you are in the ocean. Be sure to cover your arms and legs because many complained of horse fly 🪰 bites and mosquitoes bites. I didn't see snakes, but people talked about seeing snakes and foxes. You are not alone, many people camping, beach goers, fishing, running, walking, taking photos. Plenty signs and instructions specifically related to the horses 🐎 habitats. Very well maintaine and secure areas. They have different workers & marine life experts at different locations. Once you know the story of the road, you will find yourself walking...

The walk is mostly flat and beginner-friendly, making it great for a short nature escape.

One unexpected moment: we ran into a dense swarm of mosquitoes on a small portion of the trail, which forced us to turn back. It was surprising how localized the swarm was—just one section, while the rest of the trail was fine.

I was also amazed to see pine trees growing right by the beach—something you don’t expect in a coastal setting. As with much of Assateague, wild horses make appearances along the trail, adding a magical touch. Birdwatchers will enjoy this one too—there were plenty of bird sightings throughout.

Pack some bug spray and enjoy the blend of beach, forest,...

Very disappointed in this trail. The interpretive panels are faded and unreadable and the tour book is available for purchase at the ranger station miles away.

I feel like if you're not going to update the panels at least make the book free and easily accessible. I would have loved to get a fuller experience out of this trail.

Worth the quick walk for the scenery and to see the old road sections but certainly could...