Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

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A heron at sunset in the waters and marshes of Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

About Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

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!

Quick Facts

State Virginia
Designation National Historic Trail
State Code VA,MD,DE,DC,PA,NY
Weather During the summer season, visitors should dress in light, comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing, and use sunscreen. High temperatures and humidity create a higher risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.…

Operating 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.

Wednesday All Day
Monday All Day
Thursday All Day
Sunday All Day
Tuesday All Day
Friday All Day
Saturday All Day

Activities

Arts and Culture Craft Demonstrations Cultural Demonstrations Boating Sailing Boat Tour Camping Canoe or Kayak Camping Car or Front Country Camping RV Camping Compass and GPS Geocaching Fishing Food Picnicking Guided Tours Boat Tour Hands-On Arts and Crafts Hiking Front-Country Hiking Paddling Canoeing Canoe or Kayak Camping Kayaking Stand Up Paddleboarding Whitewater Rafting Junior Ranger Program Tubing River Tubing Swimming Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Museum Exhibits

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