Are dogs allowed on Railroad Ditch Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Railroad Ditch Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Railroad Ditch Trail?

No, Railroad Ditch Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Railroad Ditch Trail?

Railroad Ditch Trail is rated difficult. It is 8.3 miles long with 1,060 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Railroad Ditch Trail?

Railroad Ditch Trail is best hiked in spring, fall, and winter. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Is Railroad Ditch Trail suitable for kids?

Railroad Ditch Trail is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Virginia trail conditions

DifficultOut and Back

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge/Virginia

Railroad Ditch Trail

Suffolk, Virginia

8.3 mi

Distance

1,060 ft

Elev. Gain

Out & Back

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

The Railroad Ditch Trail, located in Suffolk, Virginia, is an 8.3-mile out-and-back trail offering a combination of moderate length and challenging terrain. With an elevation gain of 1,060 feet and a range between 6 to 31 meters in elevation, hikers can expect a workout along this primarily dirt-surfaced trail. The trail winds through the southeastern Virginia landscape, which is typically forested and may offer a diverse array of local wildlife and natural beauty.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

steep elevation gain

Elevation Profile

Min:6 ft

Max:31 ft

323 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge — official page
Park unit page with alerts and visitor information.

Verify by phone or mail

Address:NC

Best Seasons

Spring Fall Winter

Highlights

forest setting

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.