There wasn't another trail quite like it.
York River's Taskinas Creek is part of a unique estuarine system
Taskinas Creek Trail at York River State Park
Taskinas Creek Trail gave visitors to York River State Park a unique experience in wetland and upland ecosystems. There were bridges crossing small, freshwater feeder streams and overlooks of the broad estuary marsh. An osprey nesting platform stands in the center of the marsh giving visitors a closer look at this majestic bird rearing it's young. Attentive and sharp eyes would notice muskrat and snapping turtles at the edge of the cordgrass. Crossing the large bridge made it possible for paddlers and hikers to meet each other in their adventures. Going back up the hill brought guests back to the home of deer, squirrels, and perching birds.
Taskinas Creek Trail overlooks of the broad estuary marsh
A "Nor' Easter" in the winter of 2008 made the iconic large footbridge impassible. For the sake of guest safety, the trail was closed to the public. The park still had many things to offer hikers such as Fossil Beach, the Riverview Trail shoreline, and a gazebo view of the confluence of Taskinas Creek and the York River. But, none of these things could replace the way the trail brought people up close and personal with the brackish water marsh.
York River State Park Priority #1 is to open this trail
The staff and volunteers have made the re-opening of Taskinas Creek Trail the top priority for 2012.
It will take a different route in some places. Rather than long bridges in the midst of the freshwater bogs (where the mosquitos can be ferocious), the trail will be along the higher hillsides with shorter valley crossings. The observation decks will still be available to take a breath and enjoy the marsh. As before, the new Taskinas Creek Trail will be for hikers only.
Youth Conservation Corps assist in re-routing the trail
We want to thank the Youth Conservation Corps for their hard work over the past two summers for helping us re-routing the trail. The staff and volunteers are constructing the necessary bridges, stairwells, and making other adjustments for the safety of park guest.
Taskinas Creek Trail will re-open by Memorial Day Weekend. But, with hard work and favorable weather, It may be much sooner than that. We will keep you updated on our progress. Until then, please come and enjoy the other 25 miles of trails and views of York River State Park.
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.
Drive Time: Northern Virginia, two to three hours; Richmond, one hour; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, one hour; Fredericksburg, two hours; Roanoke, five hours.
