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37 Miles Of Pristine Beaches
When discussing the national parks, most people are thinking of 63 units. While amazing, there are actually 424 units managed by the National Park Service, and some of the lesser known sites should not be overlooked. Assateague Island National Seashore is one of these sites, containing more than 30 miles of beautiful well maintained beaches and trails. While exploring here you can find wildlife including wild horses amongst the beaches, dunes, and marshes. This place is pristine, and you might just be lucky enough to find yourself on your own stretch of beach to unwind and enjoy our amazing planet.
Planning Your Visit
Assateague Island National Seashore has two sections located off of the coast of Maryland as well as Virginia. You can not drive between the two sections, instead needing to pick one of the two entrances to the park. We chose the Maryland entrance and this section did not disappoint! There were no shortage of wild horses walking along the roadside (take caution while driving!). I do recommend stopping in the beautiful visitor center here for maps and to speak to a ranger to assist you in planning your visit.
Activities available here include camping, wildlife viewing, biking, horseback riding, hiking, or driving on the beach in a designated OSV (Over Sand Vehicle) zone-permit required. Visit the website https://www.recreation.gov/vehiclepermits/3332403 for more information. All other information can be found on the national park service site: https://www.nps.gov/asis/index.htm
Trail recommendations: Life of the Forest trail and the Life of the Marsh trail-both of these are easy 1/2 mile loops on the Maryland side of the park that showcase some of the unique flora and fauna the park has to offer.
Address: 7206 National Seashore Lane, Berlin, MD 21811
Fees: Weekly vehicle pass: 25$
