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Meander along this trail through a swamp area with fine examples of Bald Cypress Trees.


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Map Key

1.7

Miles

2.7

KM

100%

Runnable

59' 18 m

High

33' 10 m

Low

44' 13 m

Up

28' 9 m

Down

1%

Avg Grade (0°)

3%

Max Grade (2°)

Dogs Leashed

Description

This is an easy run that meanders a bit more than any of the other trails in the park. It is also the most diverse in what you'll see.

The trail itself ranges from an easy foot path with a pine needle bed to then passing through swamps and bogs via well-crafted wood boardwalks with great views of the Bald Cypress and Spanish Moss. The trail is a loop run of about 1.8 miles. If you only have time for one run in the park, this should be the one!

Flora & Fauna

The Bald Cypress Tree thrives in this environment. The Bald Cypress is a conifer that drops needle-like leaves early in the fall season. This is where it gets that name. But what I found to be the most interesting are the "knees" of the tree. The technical name for these is "pneumatophore." When I first saw these "knees" I thought they were the remains of dead trees that had long fallen into the swamp and the trunk eroded. They are actually branches that grow out from the root system of the tree and grow up out of the mud and water. From what I understand, the "knees" provide oxygen to the roots. So what looks like dead trees at first glance, actually plays an important part in the survival the the Bald Cypress.

Contacts

Land Manager: Virginia State Parks

Shared By:

John Maurizi

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 7 votes

#11258

Overall
  4.0 from 7 votes
5 Star
29%
4 Star
43%
3 Star
29%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#288

in Virginia

#11,258

Overall
8 Views Last Month
1,527 Since Apr 24, 2017
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

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Photos

Bald Cypress Trees along the Bald Cypress Trail.
Apr 24, 2017 near Virgini…, VA
The viewing platform and trail through swamp area.
Apr 24, 2017 near Virgini…, VA
Bald cypress swamp alongside Cape Henry Trail, featuring interesting "knees" from the Bald Cypress trees. The trees are relatives of the Redwood family.
Oct 10, 2015 near Virgini…, VA
Bald Cypress Trees growing in the marsh give the trail its name.
Apr 24, 2017 near Virgini…, VA
Entry point of Cape Henry Trail from Trail Center at First Landing State Park
Oct 10, 2015 near Virgini…, VA
Spanish moss hanging over the Cape Henry Trail.
Oct 10, 2015 near Virgini…, VA

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