Hiking Trails at Magens Bay

The Discovery Nature Trail is a moderately challenging but well-maintained hiking trail that winds through a variety of ecosystems in the preserve, showcasing the island’s beautiful wildlife. Start your hike from one of two trailheads, the trailhead off Magens Bay Road at Canaan or from Magens Bay on the west side of the beach.

We suggest that you begin your adventure near the top of the trail, at the Magens Bay Road/Canaan trailhead. Begin with some bird watching at the wooden platform overlooking Magens Bay. Spend some time observing the 263 species of native and migratory birds found on the island, including the golden warbler, stilt sandpiper, peregrine falcon and piping plover.

Next, amble the 1 ½ miles down a gentle slope to Magens Bay Beach. As you follow the trail, you’ll travel through multiple ecosystems – starting in a mixed-dry forest, moving into moist-tropical forest, then across a boardwalk passing through mangroves and finally arriving at the picturesque beach.