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Horseshoe Marsh is a 650-acre wetland complex on the Bolivar Peninsula. It is located near the Bolivar ferry landing adjacent to the historic Bolivar lighthouse, and includes salt marsh and wet coastal prairie surrounding a shallow tidal lagoon. It is critical habitat for large numbers of shorebirds, waders, and ducks including Roseate Spoonbills, Oystercatchers, Long-billed Curlews, Seaside Sparrows and Clapper Rails, among others.
In addition to the value of this area as bird habitat, there is a significant contribution to the local economy by the thousands of birdwatchers from all over the world who visit the area each year. The Horseshoe Marsh's productive wetlands also provide food for large numbers of fish and other sea life which provide recreational opportunities for fishermen who catch Redfish, Speckled Trout and Flounder and for families who come to catch Blue Crabs. Houston Audubon has been working to protect wetland habitat on the Bolivar Peninsula since the early 1980's and acquired its first tract in Port Bolivar in 1997.
Callery Prickly-Ash Trail
The Callery Prickly-Ash Trail at Horseshoe Marsh is named in honor of Caroline Callery, a longtime Houston Audubon volunteer who was instrumental in raising the funds used to purchase Bolivar Flats and Horseshoe Marsh. One of Caroline's favorite trees is the prickly-ash which is used by many birds and butterflies.
The trail runs along an old abandoned railway bed so it is elevated above the surrounding wet coastal prairie. Parts of the trail are lined with trees, many of them prickly ash, and shrubs which should attract migrants. Volunteers from the Galveston Bay Area Chapter of the Master Naturalists have helped Houston Audubon volunteers clear the trail and plant additional trees and shrubs favored by migratory birds.
To reach the trailhead, from Hwy 87 turn on to the north end of the 108 loop, this is the road across from Rettilon Rd which is the road to Bolivar Flats. The trail is a short distance from this intersection on the left side, look for the turnstile in the fence. There will be a sign by the turnstile after April 8, and ultimately a culvert over the ditch when Texdot approves the plan. Please park on the shoulder of the road; it is nice and firm in this area.
Be aware that this part of the sanctuary is leased for grazing, so you may see cattle on the property.
