FOLLOW THE LANDSCAPE. DISCOVER THE STORY.

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

America’s stories are written into its landscapes.
Header: Many people visit Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge to spot birds, like this heron, that rely the natural resources of the landscape. · NPS Photo / Middleton Evans · Public domain, NPS · Photo credits
PLACES THAT KEEP THE PAST CLOSE

A story worth following.

Explore the Chesapeake watershed through waterways, shoreline parks and the continuing histories of Indigenous communities. This is a water-trail network with many land-based places to visit.

A heron at sunset in the waters and marshes of Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Many people visit Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge to spot birds, like this heron, that rely the natural resources of the landscape.
NPS Photo / Middleton Evans · Public domain, NPS
A lone kayaker explores the Patuxent River
The upper reaches of the Patuxent River at Jug Bay give visitors a view of the Chesapeake region that feels similar to a time before European settlement.
NPS Photo / Middleton Evans · Public domain, NPS
BUILD YOUR OWN CHAPTER

Places to begin

  • Historic Jamestowne
  • Chesapeake Bay shoreline parks
  • Susquehanna river access sites

Suggested starting points, not a turn-by-turn route. Choose a manageable local section; stops may be far apart.

Make the visit work for you

Choose shoreline visits for a land outing. Paddling requires a suitable launch, tide and weather checks, and the right experience.

Give the story time

Allow time for interpretation, a short walk and conversations. One well-chosen historic place can be more rewarding than a rushed list of stops.

Bring your group comfortably

Confirm parking, restrooms, walking surfaces and group reservations with each site. A historic trail designation does not guarantee coach access.

Official visitor information ↗

U.S. visits only. Historic routes may cross private property or have disconnected public sections. Official links provide current maps, access and operating information. Photographs may show earlier conditions.