We watched the ponies on Assateague from our vantage point on Chincoteague Island, across the Assateague Channel.
Eyes of horse-lovers everywhere are on a little island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore today. The annual Chincoteague Pony Swim is legendary. And no wonder, watching the saltwater cowboys round up the wild stallions, mares and foals and lead them across the Assateague Channel is a thrill.
But for me and my family, kayaking that same channel is a cherished memory. During our mid-July visit, everybody climbed into one of the kayaks waiting at the water’s edge. Even my aunt who is 90 and her little brother, my father, took kayaks out on the peaceful waters to float among the seagrasses, savor the breeze and take in the views.
We love our weeks at Chincoteague. And we’re already talking about next summer’s visit.
ⓒText Mary K. Tilghman
Photo by Gina Truitt
A Day Away Travel 
I would love to canoe here, looks beautiful!
Gorgeous view!!!
Correction: Marguerite Henry wrote the story. Wesley Dennis drew the Pictures.
I remember reading the Wesley Dennis picture book “Misty of Chincoteague” when I was a pre-teen and wanting to visit the island. Amazing that the ponies are still living their lives out on the islands after centuries!
I read all of Marguerite Henry’s books back in my childhood. I credit her for my love of horses and, of course, Chincoteague. Going back every summer as we have for a few years now has been one of the most delightful travel experiences of my life.