Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve - Alexandria, VA
Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve is a scenic natural escape located in Alexandria, Virginia, ideal for nature lovers and pet owners seeking dog-friendly hiking and pet-friendly trails near the Potomac River. Known for its picturesque river views, abundant wildlife, beautiful sunflower displays in season, and peaceful boardwalks, the preserve is loved by both humans and leashed dogs. With easy trails and plenty of space, enjoy bird watching, cycling, and relaxing walks with your canine companion in a serene, natural environment.
This dog-friendly park in Alexandria features free and ample parking, wheelchair accessible entrances and parking, and open, well-maintained pathways perfect for leisurely strolls or more energetic bike rides. While dogs must remain on-leash throughout your visit, the welcoming atmosphere and variety of activities—from hiking to picnicking—make it an excellent destination for families, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Please note that there are currently no restrooms on site, so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times while visiting Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve has both wheelchair accessible entrances and parking lots.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve offers easy hiking and walking trails, including boardwalks through marshland and connections to the Mount Vernon Trail.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a large, free parking lot available near the preserve and adjacent Belle Haven Park.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve is accessible and enjoyed by visitors year-round, in all seasons.
Reviews
One of my favorite walks. Different during every season. This time it was for the different sunflowers turning the marsh into a beautiful yellow carpet. Such a lovely sight and walk. Lots of parking and very popular. Loved by humans and dogs alike. River views are spectacular.
Peaceful hike. There were many hikers on the trail even in the winter early in the morning.
Very easy trail. Birds chirping everywhere.
Free parking lot! Check out the pics.
A lovely walk to begin my day with. Its a very scenic and spectacular river view as you hike. Plenty of information about Marsh and wild habitat that we find here. People do come for birdwatching, it’s so peaceful and soothing to hear the chirping of different birds as you walk. Dogs are allowed on a leash. Plenty of parking options available. Walk until the very lookout point, you can also find people working out there.
I would love to visit this place every single day. Highly recommended
A pleasant nature preserve and walk along the Potomac along the mount vernon trail. It’s a bit of a walk from alexandria, but the bike ride is easy. The neighboring park has plenty of parking, facilities, and picnic tables. The trail is an easy short out and back along the river and a boardwalk through restored marsh land. Plenty of birds, flowers, snakes, and animals. Nice inlets for kayaking.
Ideal place to enjoy the park, see wildlife, bicycle, walk, and just immerse yourself in beautiful nature. It was our first time here, and we enjoyed bicycling the area for the first time. I liked how you had a two way lane to bike and walk. There was a lot of renovations on the Mt Vernon Trail going through the park and marsh area. It does get crowded there yet there was a lot of parking. It is parallel to Belle Haven Park. There were no nearby restrooms. You do hear sounds of cars & traffic along the Mt. Vernon Trail. The trail gets narrow at some areas and can get uncomfortable by the renovation area – close to oncoming cars.
Bicycling through the woods over bridges and stopping by areas to enjoy the views were highlights we enjoyed at Dyke Marsh. We decided to just bicycle for an hour, yet it was enough for both of us. Looking forward to bicycling through all 18 miles of the Mt. Vernon Trail.