Chesapeake Bay

November and December are exciting months to visit three Chesapeake Gateways, all essential stops on the Harriet Tubman Byway. The weather is crisp and bird migrations are in full flight! Sailwinds Park East, MD, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical and State Park, MD and the Blackwater Wildlife Refuge, MD are enchanting and educational Chesapeake Gateways.

American eels are found everywhere along the Atlantic Coast, but many aspects of these fish remain poorly understood. They are perhaps one of the most mysterious fish in the Potomac watershed.

For nearly 20 years, Vince Leggett led the fight to save Elktonia Beach from development through the Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation. As Joel Dunn reflects, working alongside Vince and their partners to preserve this historic site was one of his proudest achievements. Vince’s passion for the cause was unwavering, and Joel feels honored to have stood by his side in this monumental effort.

Nestled on the Delmarva Peninsula, Trap Pond State Park offers a serene escape featuring the majestic bald cypress—its northernmost range in the U.S. Enjoy 4,000 acres of beauty, from shaded picnic spots to scenic nature walks. Glide through enchanting cypress groves, listen for kingfishers, and witness nature's artistry. Perfect for hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in the views, Trap Pond blends history with recreation. Come immerse yourself in this natural treasure today!

NPS Chesapeake Gateways and USDOT Volpe Center conducted a transit feasibility study for the Baltimore National Heritage Area (BNHA) to explore shuttle service options that improve access and equity. The study assessed route scenarios, existing transit gaps, and stakeholder input. It recommends further analysis, pilot testing, and coordination with local transit partners.

Near the end of the Susquehanna River, just north of downtown Havre De Grace, MD, sits a pristine, 2639-acre park. Within this park, a wide variety of habitat as well as the funneling effect the river causes to bird migration, makes this spot an incredible location for one of America’s favorite hobbies, birding. Susquehanna State Park offers a wide variety of birding opportunities to a beginner, as well as the experienced birdwatcher, looking for that one rare species.

Like the timeless shanties of seafarers, Vince Leggett’s legacy flows through the Chesapeake, immeasurable and enduring. As Jaelon T. Moaney reflects, from its shores to its depths, few have attuned to the Bay’s rhythms with as much care and devotion.

NPS Chesapeake Gateways and USDOT Volpe Center supported Cambridge Waterfront Development, Inc. in developing a scope for a Multimodal Connectivity Plan. The project evaluated transit gaps, identified funding sources, and offered strategies to improve pedestrian, bicycle, and transit access to the Cambridge Harbor redevelopment site in Maryland.