Did you know? The Chesapeake Bay Region came about through millions of years of change, with natural forces, and, eventually, human activities playing major roles in creating the diverse aquatic and land-based environments we see in the Bay ecosystem of today.

Things To Do Activities

Sites along the Captain John Smith Chesapeake Trail offer a wealth of activities for everyone to enjoy. Want to explore nature? Hike or paddle through the Bay’s marshes while watching for birds. If you’d rather plan a day trip with your family, gather at a site that offers picnicking or a family-friendly educational program.

Here’s a sampling of the things you can do on the John Smith Trail:

	Auto Touring: Hit the road at these sites that include auto tours along wilderness drives, scenic byways and other roadways.
	Bay Art & Decoy Carving: These sites display the Chesapeake Bay tradition of decoy carving and other art forms that capture the beauty and culture of the Chesapeake.
	Biking: Grab your bike and head to one of these sites that have bike trails along scenic marshes, farms and forests.
	Birding and Wildlife Viewing: Make sure to bring your binoculars to these sites to observe eagles, herons, ospreys and other birds that call the Chesapeake Bay region home.
	Boat Access: Explore the Chesapeake region as Captain John Smith did -- by boat -- at these sites with boat launches.
	Camping: Pitch a tent and roast some marshmallows at these sites, which have campsites for overnight stays with friends or family.
	Canoeing / Kayaking: Find some of the finest paddling in the Chesapeake Bay region at these sites that offer water trails down quiet rivers, through forested wetlands or along the Chesapeake Bay shoreline.
	Educational Programs: These sites have educational opportunities that teach children and adults about animals, plants, historic events and Chesapeake Bay cultures.
	Fishing: Bring your fishing gear and head to one of these sites to catch your favorite Chesapeake Bay fish, whether it be perch, bass or croaker.
	Hiking: These sites have hiking trails for a range of skill levels and through various Chesapeake Bay scenery, including marshes and forests.
	Picnicking: Plan a getaway to one of these sites for an afternoon barbeque or picnic with your family and friends.
	Swimming: These trail sites have safe areas for you and your family to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay's sand and surf.
	Tours / Walking Tours: Learn more about the history, culture and natural areas of these sites, which have guided walking tours of the area.