Okefenokee Hiking Trails – Chesser Island Boardwalk, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

The boardwalk snakes its way through the swamp leading hikers to an overlook tower. We never made it to this trail before late afternoon. It makes a nice, relaxing way to end exciting days in the Okefenokee Swamp.

Round-trip, the Chesser Island Boardwalk is a 1.5-mile hike. I urge visitors to estimate the hike taking longer than usual. The swamp is mesmerizing and it’s easy to get immersed in spotting wildlife and examining plants along the way.

We spotted Great White Egret, Cottonmouth snakes, several frogs and lizards, as well as bobcat scat and carnivorous plants along this boardwalk. There’s a sheltered wildlife viewing area about halfway down the boardwalk. Bring your binoculars and magnifying glass to have better views of the wonders lining this trail.

The turning point is a four-story overlook tower offering majestic views of the largest blackwater swamp in North America.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Trails

East Entrance – Cane Pole Trail
East Entrance – Canal Diggers Trail
East Entrance – Chesser Island Boardwalk

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Map

General Map – Downloadable map of Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, includes hiking trails and water trails
Wilderness Canoe Brochure – Map | Text
Road Map – Downloadable map of Okefenokee Nat’l Wildlife Refuge roads.