Hiking the New Marshall Hampton Reserve off Thornhill Rd

So after work today, I decided to hike the new Thornhill Trail called the Marshall Hampton Reserve. Its a trail for hiking or horseback riding. The hike has two options : The 3.5 mile Acorn Hammock trail through the Oak Hammock trees or the 2.5 mile hike dubbed the Osprey Overlook Trail around the water.

I chose the Acorn Hammock Trail which took me about 1 hour and 1/2 to walk. I liked that the trail was clearly marked along the way with arrows and signs. There is also a sign in book in case your hiking alone like I was.

This reserve area bought buy Swiftmud claims that eagles and coyotes abound but I luckily or unluckily did not cross paths with these creatures. Because I chose to walk in the shade, I did not see a large amount of wild animals. I did see wild geese, ducks, spiders, and birds. I was able to walk the path with no problems in my work clothes and shoes with heels. Just watch out for horse droppings.. lol The trail was mixed with dirt, grass, and stone. IN some areas it could be pretty muddy if hiking right after the rain.

Mosquito repellant would have been nice but I did not have many problems except when I stopped to take some photos.. so keep moving..

The Oak Hammocks are beautiful and the hike is definately worth it. As I was leaving, the sun was setting over the "borrow pit" which is the only body of water on the over 1,000 acre reserve. There are no facilities at the site and there is surveillance in the parking area, but I still locked my purse in the trunk.

Great hikes for walking dogs, horseback riding, or taking the kids out for an hour or so of fun.

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