By Collin Hall
Woodcock Trail
1.2 miles
Trailhead at the end of Woodcock Road, 39°05’37.8″N 74°52’50.9″W
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Woodcock Trail is hidden behind development west of Cape May Court House just off Route 47 on a piece of land protected via the Cape May Wildlife Refuge. Unlike many trails in the county, there aren’t any water spots here. Despite that, Woodcock offers a great variety of plants and scenery.
The trail begins with a sandy path enclosed by dark-green pines. It isn’t quite spooky, but the “tunnels” created by overhanging foliage make for a quiet walk that keeps hikers guessing what waits behind each bend.
This is a great trail to tackle in the winter because it is notoriously tick-filled and overgrown as the weather begins to warm. Many of the trees in these woods are conifers, so a winter trek here will not be devoid of greenery. The trailhead’s location means that, even in peak season, it isn’t crowded.
As a rule, trails that sit on Wildlife Refuge land in the county are worth a visit if for nothing other than their quiet “backwoods” atmosphere. I highly recommend this trail, even if on-paper, it isn’t spectacular.
Woodcock trail in Court House is hidden behind development, but offers a great day walk through Cape May forests.
