Where Can I See The Chincoteague Ponies?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The Ponies will swim across the Assateague Channel and come ashore on the east side of Chincoteague Island

Where are the Chincoteague ponies right now?

Although popularly known as Chincoteague ponies, the feral ponies actually live on Assateague Island . The entire Island is owned by the federal government and is split by a fence at the Maryland/Virginia state line, with a herd of around 150 ponies living on the Virginia side of the fence, and 80 on the Maryland side.

Can you see wild ponies in Chincoteague?

The best way to view Chincoteague Ponies is from a charter boat tour . That is really the only way you can observe them in their natural habitat. Charter Boat Captains have access to the north end of Assateague, where 100 of the wild ponies live. (Compared to the 25 ponies on the south side of Assateague).

Where are the wild horses in Chincoteague?

Assateague Island – Visit the National Park and see the wild ponies. Assateague Island National Seashore is located close to Chincoteague Island, Virginia and Ocean City, Maryland. Assateague contains over 37 miles of pristine beach. More than 300 wild ponies wander the beaches, inland pine forest, and salt marshes.

Where is the best place to see the Assateague ponies?

The best option is to park at the State Park or National Park day-use area and enjoy a walk along the trails or beach in search of the horses in their natural habitat.

Is Chincoteague or Assateague better?

Most people explore both islands in a single trip. Assateague , 37 miles long, is prized for its beaches and ponies, and Chincoteague, seven miles long, is known for its refuge, dunes, forests, and marshes.

What's the difference between Assateague and Chincoteague?

While Assateague is protected as a National Seashore (on the Maryland side) and National Wildlife Refuge (on the Virginia portion of the island), Chincoteague Island is developed, including a town with the island's name. ... There are two herds, separated by a fence along the Maryland-Virginia state border .

How much do the Chincoteague ponies sell for?

2019 – 57 ponies sold, average cost $4,767, high bid $17,500, low bid $1,400, total sales $271,700 .

Can you touch the horses at Assateague Island?

Petting or feeding the wild horses may seem like a harmless and fun thing to do, but the consequences can be terrible. For your safety and the safety of the horses, please obey park regulations and do not approach, touch or feed the Assateague horses .

What time do the ponies swim back to Assateague?

Noon Swim back . Carnival – 7pm – 11pm. Rides, games, food, live music, BINGO and raffles. On Friday morning, the adult ponies make their swim back to Assateague Island where they will live...

What beach has wild horses?

For centuries, mysterious herds of wild horses have gallivanted on the protected beaches and salt marshes of Assateague Island , a 37-mile coastal split between Maryland and Virginia. As local folklore goes, the horses are survivors of a 17th-century shipwreck off the Virginia coast.

Can adults ride Chincoteague ponies?

As a result of drinking salt water, they appear “fat” or “bloated.” The horses were bred down to a unique breed of pony, known as the Chincoteague Pony. ... They are small horses that both adults and children can ride .

Can you drive through Assateague Island?

Driving on designated sections of the beaches in both the Maryland and Virginia units of Assateague Island National Seashore is allowed by permit only . ... Permits are good for one year and can be obtained at Toms Cove Visitor Center (Virginia) or the Ranger Station just inside the gates of the park in Maryland.

What is the best time of day to see the horses on Assateague Island?

The best time to see the ponies is actually the last Thursday in July on the southern end of Assateague island.

Where is the best place to see the wild ponies?

  • Waipi'o Valley, Hawaii. ...
  • McCullough Peaks. ...
  • Cumberland Island, Ga. ...
  • Tonto National Forest, Ariz. ...
  • Chincoteague, Va. ...
  • Virginia Range, Nev. ...
  • Onaqui herd. ...
  • Gower Peninsula, Wales.

How much does it cost to go to Assateague Island?

Per Vehicle Per Motorcycle Current $20 $15 Jan 1, 2020 $25 $20
Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.