Annapolis, Maryland · Anne Arundel County
People first arrived in the Chesapeake Bay during the last ice age. As glaciers melted, diverse societies learned to thrive in a world of water. When Englishman Captain John Smith explored the Bay in 1608, he documented hundreds of American Indian communities. Today, sites on his map are archeological treasures and sac…
People first arrived in the Chesapeake Bay during the last ice age. As glaciers melted, diverse societies learned to thrive in a world of water. When Englishman Captain John Smith explored the Bay in 1608, he documented hundreds of American Indian communities. Today, sites on his map are archeological treasures and sacred sites for tribal citizens. Come join us on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay!
The water trail is 3,000 miles long and there are countless places to explore it. The trail's headquarters and main visitor center is at Colonial National Historical Park - Historic Jamestowne. For an internet map search or GPS, use the following: Historic Jamestowne Visitor Center, 1368 Colonial Parkway, Jamestown, Virginia 23081.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →This recreation area contains 2 facilities — campgrounds, trailheads, and visitor centers.
Heading to Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail? A few things to know before you go:
Photo: Tobias MrzykMaryland's longest mapped hiking trails, ranked by distance with notes on what makes each route worth the commitment.
Photo: Tobias MrzykSteep is hard. These are the ten Maryland trails with the most total elevation gain — quad-burners earned by hard climbing.
Photo: Maddi BazzoccoTen gentle, well-marked Maryland trails perfect for first-time hikers, families, or recovery days.
Photo: Tobias MrzykMaryland's ten hardest hikes — expert difficulty, big mileage, or serious exposure. Reserved for experienced hikers.
Photo: Diego LozanoFederal parks and recreation areas in Maryland ranked by what they actually offer hikers and campers, not just popularity.
Photo: Tobias MrzykMaryland's best hikes to named waterfalls — from short family-friendly viewpoints to all-day cascade chasing.
