Are ponies on Assateague Island really ponies?

How close to a horse can you ride on Assateague?

Assateague horses do bite, kick and can carry rabies. These horses are WILD, and they don’t behave like domestic horses. Treat the horses with respect – move back and stay safe. Stay at least a “bus length” or 40 feet away, but remember that may still be too close depending on the circumstances.

Are the ponies on Assateague real horses?

They are true horses, and not actual ponies, who have adapted to the diet and life on Assateague. During the winter their coats become quite thick to protect them from the harsh winds.

Is it safe to touch the horses on Assateague Island?

For your safety and the safety of the horses, please obey park regulations and do not approach, touch, or feed the Assateague horses. Assateague horses do bite, kick and can carry rabies. These horses are WILD, and they don’t behave like domestic horses. Treat the horses with respect – move back and stay safe.

Can You bike on Assateague Island?

Explore Assateague Island by bike. Several miles of bike trails wind through the island in both Maryland and Virginia. Horseback riding is allowed seasonally along the beach in the Over Sand Vehicle (OSV) zone.

Can You bike on assateauge Island National Seashore?

A bike lane separated from the vehicle lane runs from the Visitor Center all the way to the turnoff to the Oceanside Campground There are no specific paved trails for biking in the Maryland section of Assateauge Island National Seashore, but you can ride on the park roads, many of which have bike lanes.

Can You bike around Chincoteague Island?

The majority of the land is part of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, and most activities in the area fall within its borders. Because most visitors make no distinction between the Seashore and the Refuge, National Park Planner has included reviews of the trails in the Refuge, many of which are paved and open to biking.

How to get around assteague Island National Seashore?

Bikes are a great way to get around Assteague Island National Seashore, both in the Maryland and the Virginia sections of the park. While there are no mountain bike or off-road trails, there are plenty of roads and paved trails to ride on.

How to go to Assateague Island?

A Guide to Vacationing on Assateague Island 1 Meet the Local Horses. Wild horses have been present on Assateague for hundreds of years — they were originally descended from domestic horses that survived a shipwreck off the Virginia … 2 Get in the Water. … 3 Steer Away From the Crowds. … 4 Take Your Car. … 5 Plan Ahead.

Is Assateague Island hot in the summer?

“Summers at Assateague are generally hot and humid,” warns Davis. Plus, you’ll need to be prepared with plenty of insect repellent and protective clothing, as mosquitoes, biting flies, gnats, and ticks are an ongoing nuisance throughout spring, summer, and autumn.

Are there paved trails in assateauge Island National Seashore?

There are no specific paved trails for biking in the Maryland section of Assateauge Island National Seashore, but you can ride on the park roads, many of which have bike lanes.

When is the best time to use the Assateague Island Trail?

The trail is primarily used for walking, running, and road biking and is best used from April until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail. • Assateague Island National Seashore charges a fee to enter.

Do you need bikes on Chincoteague Island?

There are so many great and beautiful trails on Chincoteague Island that you will want to bring bikes. We debated for a long time whether or not to bring them and I am so glad we did. Most of the trails are paved and pretty level, making them easy for all ages.

How do I Reserve Assateague explorer?

Assateague Explorer is dedicated to the preservation of Assateague Island National Seashore and to providing educational and recreational access to these treasures. Call now to reserve. > Reserve online or call (757) 336-5956 or (757) 894-2932 for reservations.

How good is Assateague Island National Seashore?

Assateague Island National Seashore: Tickets, Tours, Address, Phone Number, Assateague Island National Seashore Reviews: 4.5/5 One of America’s last fully functioning barrier island ecosystems. Suggest edits to improve what we show.

Can you see the ponies on a boat tour?

Again, the Ponies are always on the move and there is no guarantee you will see them, even from a boat. But on a boat tour you also have a chance to other wildlife, including shore birds, bald eagles, and dolphins.

Can you visit Assateague Island National Seashore?

Assateague Island, on the Maryland side, is split into the Assateague Island State Park and Assateague Island National Seashore. In Virginia, you will find the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. On our recent visit to Ocean City, we were able to visit Assateague Island National Seashore.

Does Assateague have a national seashore?

Assateague hosts a National Seashore AND a State Park. Located just 8 miles south of Ocean City, Maryland, Assateague Island National Seashore is a 37 mile long gem in the national and state park systems.

How much does it cost to get into Assateague Island?

Assateague Island Entrance Fees. Holders of the Parks and US Forest systems “Golden Eagle” pass get unrestricted access to the national park. For others, a modest entrance fee – currently $20 – allows for three days of unrestricted access into the park.

How strong is the wind on Assateague Island?

Assateague has been hit by hurricanes and large storms, which have peaked over 100mph. While the park would be closed and you wouldn’t find yourself on the beach during these storms, the wind speed and direction constantly fluctuates, but from our experience it ranges from calm/zero to 15 mph on most days.

What is the weather like on Assateague Island in March?

March/April: Assateague Island sees a dramatic shift in weather during the spring, with average temperatures in early March in the low 50s that reach nearly 70°F by the end of April. Average precipitation is 3.2” with humidity of 66%.

How do I get to the Assateague Channel?

On the far right side of the lot closest to the woods is a path that leads to the Assateague Channel—I call it the Assateague Channel Trail, though it has no official name. Definitely take this, as it takes you to a nice place to take photos.

How much does it cost to enter Assateague Island National Seashore?

• Assateague Island National Seashore charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot or bike there is no entrance fee.

Can I camp at Assateague Island?

Camping at Assateague will be a pleasant experience if you plan ahead! The barrier island habitat can be harsh if you are not prepared. Camping is available only in the Maryland district of Assateague Island.

Where can I Ride a horse on the beach in Maryland?

Maryland Travel Routes. Maryland horseback riding is permitted on the beach in the OSV zone located 1.5 miles south of the North Beach dune crossing. The stretch of beach between North Beach dune crossing and the beginning of the OSV zone is to be used only as a corridor for entering and exiting the permitted area.