Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail
District of Columbia, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware
Free entry
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!
Activities
Topics
No entrance fee.
Hours
The water trail is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year! To launch your kayak or other vessel on the trail, access a local boat launch along one of the trail's many tributary rivers and coastlines. Local boat launches, state parks, and other locations have specific operating hours and seasons. Always check weather and conditions before going out on the water - take care during the winter months to dress appropriately for the weather and the possibility of submersion in cold water.
Conditions
Weather now: ☀️ Clear, 84°F
🌧️ 91°/70°
🌦️ 75°/69°
☁️ 82°/61°
Things to do
Paddle the Sassafras River Water Trail
Multi-Park Loop
Paddle the Baltimore Blueway
Bicycle to a marina from Reedville, Virginia
Bicycle between Point Lookout and Leonardtown, MD
Explore the tidal Potomac from the Northern Neck by boat
Explore by bicycle from Westmoreland State Park
Paddle the Potomac River
Visitor centers
Historic Jamestowne - Trail Headquarters
Zimmerman Center for Heritage
Not an official safety source — always defer to NPS.gov and rangers for life-safety decisions.
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