Wildlife Watching

Visitors look at a bald eagle nest in the distance

NPS | Cassidy Renninger

From the mouth of the Potomac to its headwaters in Western Pennsylvania, the trail spans several habitats. Along the trail visitors can encounter beaches, marshes, tidal wetlands, streamside forest buffers, forested woodlands, and more. This habitat variety allows for unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Observing and learning about wildlife can strengthen our connection to natural resources, give us a new way to look at the world around us, and promote conservation. Explore the Field Guide to the PHT to discover some of the wildlife that can be spotted along the trail.

While wildlife watching, it is important to observe and admire from a safe and respectful distance. Many parks recommend a distance of 25 yards. To see animals better, use binoculares or a zoom lense of a phone or camera. Do not approach, feed, or make excessive noises. Wildlife watching is most enjoyed when wildlife can be wild. For more information on safe wildlife viewing, visit 7 Ways to Safely Watch Wildlife - Watching Wildlife (U.S. National Park Service).