Of the 40+ miles of trails at York River State Park, Beaver is fairly easy to ignore. It doesn’t have the scenic marsh views of Taskinas Creek, nor is it on the way to Fossil Beach.  There is nothing historic about it, and it’s closed to biking and horseback riding. 

So, why should anyone explore Beaver Trail at York River State Park? Let's find out.

The bridge approaches are new

One good reason is the walk along the non-tidal stream that feeds into Woodstock Pond. Originally, hikers would simply head down the ravine, cross the footbridge, and go up the hill. The re-routing makes more of the hill on both sides giving guests a longer look at the stream at the ravine bottom. This secluded little ecosystem consists of various broadleaf plants and is a habitat for frogs, salamanders, and other creatures. Groups that reserve the ranger guided Stream to Sea Stroll get a chance to see these organisms up close.

Checking out stream life

The entire loop from the parking lot to Backbone, Beaver, and Woodstock Pond Trails is only about a mile. For local guests who are walking their dogs and tourist who just need to stretch their legs for a minute will find this a good walk with nice scenery from the ravine, mixed hard and soft wood forest, and the waters of our pond and river. I have picked up a habit of parking my car near the Contact Station and hiking around the pond to work. 

As we know, even a short walk has great mental and physical health benefits.

Tranquility of the trail

The best way to enjoy Beaver Trail is to begin from the intersection with Backbone. The pathway takes you through sapling loblolly pines and mountain laurels. The stream will be on your left. In some places, the waters disappear and reappear. Crossing the footbridge and going back up hill, hardwoods such as beech, maple, and oak dominate. Once up the hill take note of seedlings growing near fallen pines. At this point, Woodstock Pond Trail runs parallel with Beaver until they finally intersect near the Mattaponi Trail head.  Returning to the Visitor Center, the broad vista of the pond and river is a treat at the end of the loop.

A view worth hiking for and the treat at the end of the loop

Directions to York River State Park: From I-64, take the Croaker Exit 231B. Go north on Route 607 (Croaker Rd.) for one mile, then right on Route 606 (Riverview Rd.) about one and a half miles to the park entrance. Take a left turn into the park.