Casual Walk Across Somers Point - Ocean City Causeway to see nest building

It is that time of year again. Nest building! We will meet on the fishing pier on the Somers Point side. We will walk to the Visitor's Center , 'underneath' the Center, and back to our cars for about 4.5 miles. Will be stopping at the Visitor's Center (where there is a flushie) for a bit to watch the egrets, ibis, night herons and other shore birds build their nests and sit on them. We will go below the Visitor's Center for another view of the nests. We will be at the Visitor's Center for about 20 minutes which includes a break, water, snack and bird gawking. Expect about 4-4.5 miles on mostly concrete. If you like birds be sure to bring binoculars and a portable camera. But remember this is a walk so we will not be spending more then a few minutes for photos other then the break at the Visitor's Center. If you don't like birds /architecture /photography be prepared to be patient with those who do.

This is a series of bridges so there is some ups and downs. It is right next to the roadway, though seperated, so can be noisy at times. You will be hard pressed to find a tick on this walk but there is no shade so be sure to have sunglasses or sun hat.

Please note we are meeting on the fishing pier on the Somers Point side. If coming from the mainland, you will go onto the bridge and about 1/3 of the way, turn right. then another quick right. In 2025, there was some issue with not enough spaces, so may need to park at other end of fishing pier and walk down to me. Note: to return to the mainland, the easiest way is to go into Ocean City and go around a few blocks. I find it easier then trying to make a left back onto the bridge.

Hike leader: Dawn Tepper
Anticipated Distance: 4-4.5 miles
Expected Speed (Casual does not always mean slow): 26-28 minutes per mile
Number of planned breaks: 1 @ 20 minutes at visitor's center and as needed.
Bathrooms: Port-a-potty on fishing pier where we are starting/ending. Also Flushies in Visitors center at break.

Be sure to bring water, even in the cold. I also recommend at least a snack for the break or lunch.

Be sure to be prepared for the weather.

Please arrive a few minutes ahead of time to sign in and use the bathroom. I start the safety talk 5 minutes before and then start.

Take your preferred tick, chigger, and flying insect precautions.

I drive a dark blue/gray Toyota Sienna minivan. I wear a skirt.

Any questions ahead of time, email [theteppers@comcast.net](http://mailto:theteppers@comcast.net/). Problems the day of, you can text 609-742-8803.

Constant rain, wind chills below 25, heat index above 85 degrees, or other nasty weather of the same ilk cancels. If above 60 degrees and only isolated showers or mist, hike will be on but may be modified. Hikes will also be canceled or modified due to icy conditions.

The nitty gritty:

• As anyone who has hiked with me in the past knows, I have Multiple Sclerosis. MS is a chronic disease of the central nervous system. It is an autoimmune disorder, a condition in which the body attacks itself by mistake. MS is an unpredictable disease that affects people differently depending on which nerves are being attacked. I am blessed to still be able to walk and get out in nature. The location, types of hikes, distance, and pace that I choose are generally based on my current symptoms. Occasionally, I will need to adjust a route or take more frequent breaks. If appropriate, I may use hiking sticks or a rollator. (The rollator provides balance and a convenient seat if I need to give my leg a break.)
• On November 16, 2025 I had a relapse which was brought on mainly by stress and doing too much. I had to take it easy for a few weeks but now I’m back. I will be taking it easy even though it has gotten cool/cold.
• One of the more prominent side effects/symptoms of my MS is heat intolerance. And for me, depending on humidity levels, it can start around 80 degrees. I will be slow and taking frequent breaks.
• I have developed ataxia on my left leg associated with my MS. This is causing some knee/ankle pain since my gait is being altered and they are trying to compensate.
• My pace will vary on how I’m feeling and the makeup of the group that day. I like to look at nature, take time for photos, spot interesting things and don’t mind stopping for comfort breaks. If you want to go fast, you picked the wrong leader/hike. If I title my hike as slow and I’m going faster than ‘advertised’. Please let me know and I’ll slow down.
• Dogs: I’m neutral. Your well behaved, leashed dog is welcome to hike with me at the back of the group. It is YOUR responsibility to determine/confirm that dogs are permitted on a specific trail. If you plan to bring your dog, please note it in the comments such that people who prefer not to hike with dogs are aware.
• If a hike is titled as a family hike expect at least one of my elementary school aged children to be accompanying me. The pace will be on the slow end of moderate.
• If a hike is labeled as slow, not just casual, expect the hike to be slow not moderate.