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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 > Trail Explorations

The Chesapeake region offers a wealth of natural, cultural and historic places to visit, many of which Captain John Smith explored and mapped for the first time during his 1607-1609 voyages. His amazing journeys are being honored and interpreted through the Captain John Smith Chesapeake Trail, which includes more than 60 sites throughout the Chesapeake region. But with all those trail sites, it may be hard to choose which one to visit!

To get you started on a great Chesapeake experience, our trail experts have developed several pre-planned itineraries that will help you get the most out of your trip.

Each trail exploration itinerary includes:

  • The types of activities offered at the site, such as hiking, biking, swimming or bird-watching.
  • A description of the site’s scenery and trail offerings.
  • Optional side trips you can take if you decide to extend your stay in the Chesapeake region!

Each itinerary also contains information about Captain John Smith’s visit to the site during his two Chesapeake voyages. After learning about Smith’s encounter with the site more than 400 years ago, you can retrace his path on your own modern-day exploration.

Interactive Content

For Educators

[Lesson Plan Book]

Find out about web modules, lesson plans or other resources.

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Smart Buoys

[Buoy]

What’s so smart about buoys marking the water trail?

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Friends of the Trail

[Padded Envelope]

Get involved with the Friends of the John Smith Chesapeake Trail.

Learn more >

My Adventure Planner

[Boat Wheel]

Select places and events to create your own custom itenerary.

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