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Beginning May 26, 2026, a portion of the trail nearest the boat launch will be permanently closed for restoration. Access through the area will be redirected to a newly developed upland route that maintains connections to the beach and broader trail system.

If you’ve visited this area recently, you may have noticed frequent flooding, muddy conditions, or sections of trail underwater. These changes are signs of a much larger environmental shift.

As sea levels rise and storms intensify, coastal salt marshes are being pushed inland through a natural process known as marsh migration. These ecosystems play a critical role in absorbing storm surge, reducing coastal flooding, improving water quality, and providing habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife. But marshes can only survive-and continue to provide these benefits-if they have room to migrate inland. Trails and other infrastructure can restrict this movement, increasing the risk of marsh loss over time.

The flooding and marsh vegetation visible along the trail are clear indicators that the marsh is already on the move. Closing this section of trail will help protect sensitive coastal habitat while improving visitor safety and supporting more sustainable public access to the park.

We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to protect Odiorne Point State Park’s natural resources for future generations.

Take a look at the map to see what’s changed—including this year’s closure and past updates.

View of coastal trail flooding at OPSP.

This restoration effort would not be possible without the continued collaboration and support of our project partners. RCCD is grateful to the New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR), the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Coastal Program, and the many other partner organizations and volunteers helping to support long-term coastal resilience at Odiorne Point State Park.