Dismal Swamp Canal Trail
About This Trail
The Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is made from the former Route 17 in Chesapeake and runs parallel to the canal. Because it is an old road, the trail is fully paved, straight and smooth. It is popular with bikers and good for any and all wheels. The trail runs for over 8 miles; choose how far you want to go for an out-and-back hike or bike ride.
Wear lots of bug spray if you are visiting in the summer!
Trail Features
| Surface type | Paved |
|---|---|
| Carrier needed | No |
| Stroller friendly | Yes |
| ADA accessible | Yes |
| Water fountains | Yes |
| Bathrooms | No |
| Cell reception | Excellent |
| Pet friendly | Yes |
| Nearby convenience store | No |
| Camping Nearby | No |
| Emergency support within 5 miles |
No |
Trail highlights
Kids will like the big bear statue at the trailhead and seeing boats travel down the canal.
Trail Contributor
Weather
Trail Map
Upcoming Community Hikes Nearby
About The Guide
Hike it Baby Family Trail Guide is an online resource to help families with children source trails that little legs can hike and parents can feel comfortable with. Hike details are sourced and have been hiked by families who participate in our community. Our contributors do their best to give you all the details they can, but if something is missed, you can reach out to the contributor and offer suggestions for them to add to make it a better trail description for all. This guide was built with a generous 3-year partnership with L.L Bean. Like Hike it Baby, L.L Bean believes that helping get families into nature from birth on is key to healthier, happier communities.
Trail Disclaimer
Hike it Baby makes every effort to keep trail content up to date, but trail conditions are subject to change. Hike it Baby is not responsible for any injuries that occur while hiking the trails covered in this guide. Hike it Baby is a platform that helps connect families to federal, state and local parks nationwide.