Inland Marsh Trail
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
Mosquitoes are relentless from late May through September — long sleeves and DEET-based repellent are non-negotiable unless you want to donate a pint of blood to the marsh ecosystem.
Boardwalk sections can be slick after rain or morning dew. Watch your footing, especially if you're scanning the treetops for birds instead of looking down.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Arrive within the first hour after sunrise for peak bird activity — the marsh comes alive before the foot traffic picks up, and you'll hear species you'd never spot in midday heat.
Bring binoculars and a lightweight field guide or birding app. The marsh regularly hosts species like Virginia rail, sora, and marsh wren that most casual hikers walk right past without noticing.
Pair this with the Cowles Bog Trail nearby for a half-day combo that covers wetland, dune, and lakeshore ecosystems — three completely different worlds within a couple miles of each other.
