- Highlights: Ingram Bay views, birdwatching
- Distance: 1.3 miles out and back
- Elevation Change: 7 feet
- Trail Surface: Dirt and boardwalk
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Trailhead Parking: Dameron Marsh Preserve, 715 Guarding Point Lane, Kilmarnock, VA
- Trail Markings: Signs at trail junctions
- Website: AllTrails and Virginia DCR
- Beer Pairings: Merroir Tasting Room—Pale Fire Brewing Arrant IPA
Trail Map:
The Hike:
AllTrails lists this hike as a .3 mile out and back to a boardwalk and viewing platform. The viewing platform provides a lookout point over the preserve’s extensive salt marshes and the Chesapeake Bay. It’s a nice walk, but we recommend extending the hike by 1 mile to include the Dameron Marsh Access Trail. Located across the small parking area from the boardwalk trail, the access trail follows a gravel road to a small parking area and a canoe/kayak launch site.
The trail to the beach is on a straight, dirt path just past an access gate. This part of the trail is closed from April 15 to September 15 for shorebird nesting and habitat protection. Plan your visit around the seasonal closure and you can enjoy a walk on the beach with great views of Ingram Bay and the Chesapeake.
Hike Photos:
Beer Pairing:
Merroir Tasting Room is located on the banks of the Rappahannock River about 30 minutes south of the trailhead in Topping VA. These guys are famous for oysters with river views. Everything is either served raw or cooked on an outdoor grill, small-plate-style. They have an impressive list of draft beer and a solid wine list.
We both decided on oyster po boys for lunch. After a long beer weekend, Kathy was ready for a glass of wine and the Pinot Gris from Eola Hills Vineyard in Oregon didn’t disappoint. Pete enjoyed a pint of Arrant (7.5% ABV • 85 IBU), a tasty IPA from Pale Fire Brewing in Harrisonburg. Great food, excellent beverages, and a fantastic location. Hoppy trails.
Hike and drink responsibly. Never drink and drive. Stay safe, be responsible, and leave no trace.