Cypress Point Trail to Trap Pond Bald Cypress Swamp

This easily navigated, flat trail will give those who can't get access to a kayak or canoe a chance to visit the northernmost publicly owned bald cypress swamp in the U.S. The trail is in Trap Pond State Park, located in the heart of the former Great Cypress Swamp of the Delmarva Peninsula, straddling Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. The Delmarva Peninsula is the eastern boundary of the Chesapeake Bay. Unfortunately, after years of logging the durable, lightweight, rot-resistent wood and draining swamps for farms in Delmarva, there are only spotty patches of cypress swamps left in the region.

Bald cypresses are called bald because they are a less common variant of cypress that actually lose their nettles during the winter. The trees are magnificent and can grow to heights of 150 feet. They are known to live for more than 600 years. The trees grow "knees," tall bumpy knots along their roots and around the base of the trees. Scientists are unsure of the function of the knees. Along the trail, keep your eyes and ears open for the sights and sounds of owls, woodpeckers, warblers, great blue herons, and the occasional bald eagles that frequent the park. A bald cypress swamp is a diverse ecosystem. Enjoy this easy hike as it allows you to explore such a unique ecosystem.

This short 2-mile trail starts on the north side of Trap Pond at the Cypress Point Picnic Area and Horse Trailer Parking Lot at the end of the park road. Follow the short 0.6-mile Cypress Point Loop Trail counter-clockwise to hug the shore of the swamp. This loop intercepts its return route twice. The second time, continue straight on the unnamed service road for a little less than a half-mile. Turn right at the junction of Bob Trail. In another tenth of a mile or so, you will come to the boardwalk that takes you over the top of the swamp, providing a different perspective of the heart of the swamp. Return the way you came. The best map for this hike is the park's trail map that you pick up at the visitor center. A PDF version on the internet does not correctly show Cypress Point Trail.