North Point State Park: Black Marsh Trail

If you’re looking for flat, then you’ve got the right trail. This trail has a total rise of 13 feet and that’s it! Once you enter the gate, pull off to the left and park in the front lot. The entrance to the trail is on the north side of the parking lot. Almost all of this hike can be muddy if not sopping wet due to this being a Marsh so please consider this prior to moving along. The first portion of the hike you’ll be walking through a tunnel of low branches and vines. About a quarter mile in you’ll begin to see glimpses of the Black Marsh itself. When there becomes two paths, either one works as they essentially parallel one another. Once you get to the clearing and you are now in the middle of the marsh, observe all the wonderful birds, beavers and insects surrounding you. At one point along the path one side of the marsh may be discharging to the other (depending on tides). This alone can entertain kids for awhile. If the path to the observation deck trail is open (on the right at the top of the damn by the Blue Heron informational sign) enjoy the side trail stretching your sight well into the center of the marsh. Continuing along, you’ll notice a large shell of a building with plenty of graphic graffiti (if you have a young reader don’t stop too long). On the back of the building is a split trial, take it. You’re now at the Bay although the beach is riddled with garbage and glass (and sea glass). Back on the trail again continue until you see another trail splitting off to thr right. Follow this trail to the old pier. It’s mostly sunken in the water but a cool view of carnage, cement and rebar plus some sunken ships at the end. Back on the main trail, you’ll soon intersect with the park road. Follow this back to the parking lot. Your views are now of fields and there’s not too much shade, but it’s a much shorter route back.