Our new guide to walking trails in Cape May.
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Most people think of the beach when they think of Cape May – and for good reason. Cape May is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. But, did you know Cape May is also home to vibrant nature preserves with excellent walking trails. This summer enjoy the many walking trails of Cape May. Explore scenic landscapes including marshlands and wetlands, ponds, sand dunes, and more.
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CAPE MAY POINT STATE PARK
Cape May Point State Park is a popular place for coastal nature walks. It’s home to many ecosystems including sand dunes, freshwater, and a wooded area. Trails in the park include short and medium-length paths that are good for walking, biking, and birdwatching. There’s certainly plenty to explore.
Duck Pond Trail
Duck Pond Trail is a short 0.5-mile boardwalk leading to Lighthouse Pond West and East. This path is great for birdwatching, walking meditations, or simply spending time outdoors. If you’re looking for a longer walk, try Monarch Trail or Plover Trail below.
Monarch Trail
A longer 1.2-mile loop that winds through the center of the park. It leads through multiple habitats where you’re likely to see several bird species and other wildlife. On this trail, you’ll find a standing platform that provides excellent views.
Plover Trail
The longest of trails at 1.5-miles, this loop winds around ponds and beach dunes. The trail begins at Duck Pond and splits at Al’s Pond. On average, it takes a little less than 30 minutes to complete.
THE CAPE MAY WILDLIFE REFUGE
The Cape May Wildlife Refuge was established by the US Fish and Wildlife Service over 30 years ago. The park includes diverse habitats with several ecosystems. There are three divisions in the refuge with walking trails along salt marshes, hardwood swamps, bogs, grasslands, and forested uplands. The divisions and trails are:
GREAT CEDAR SWAMP DIVISION | CEDAR SWAMP TRAIL
Cedar Swamp Trail begins as a mowed grass path and continues through a new-growth forest. The trail passes by majestic bogs and beautiful cedars. It’s a quiet walk and there aren’t a lot of tall trees. Great for enjoying the open sky.
DELAWARE BAY DIVISION | SONGBIRD AND WOODCOCK TRAILS
SONGBIRD TRAIL
Songbird trail (suitably named) is packed with tall deciduous trees that are home to birds like the red-bellied woodpeckers and tufted titmouse. You’re likely to see these and many more. The trail is very much alive with the sound of birds.
WOODCOCK TRAIL
On Woodcock Trail, you’ll find lots of very tall trees and vernal pools on both sides of the trail. Fallen leaves make the path especially quiet and a good place to watch for wildlife. Blue herons are known to frequent this area as are pine warblers.
TWO MILE BEACH DIVISION | DUNE TRAIL AND MARSH TRAIL
DUNE TRAIL
Dune Trail is a short out-and-back along the beach. It’s a lovely walk through underdeveloped coastal forest. Much of the surrounding area is closed to visitors to preserve habitat for piping plovers and oystercatchers that breed here.
MARSH TRAIL
Marsh Trail begins on a boardwalk that leads past a saltmarsh to an observation area and tidal pond. Here, American Black Ducks share the inlet with Northern Pintails. There’s a bird blind perfect for viewing waterfowl without disturbing them.
SOUTH CAPE MAY MEADOWS WALKING TRAILS
The South Cape May Meadows is part of the Nature Conservancy and spans over 200 acres of protected habitat and wetlands. Here, you’ll find two miles of trails, suitable for all levels. Another excellent spot for bird and wildlife watching, come prepared to with binoculars and a camera.
GARRETT FAMILY PRESERVE
Garrett Family Preserve is a 180-acre preserve that is also part of the Nature Conservancy. It’s located just two miles from downtown Cape May and features wildflower meadows, open fields, and forested areas. Enjoy four miles of trails during daylight hours
We hope you enjoyed this collection of walking trails in Cape May. Try these nature walks and more on your next visit to our seaside village. At Montreal Beach Resort, we’re happy to help you navigate your next hiking excursion with tips and suggestions for your walk.