Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail
National Historic Trail ยท Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, District of Columbia, Pennsylvania, New York
NPS Photo / Middleton Evans
Series of water routes in the United States
The Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail is a series of water routes in the United States extending approximately 3,000 miles (4,800ย km) along the Chesapeake Bay, the nation's largest estuary, and its tributaries in Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and in the District of Columbia. The historic routes trace the 1607โ1609 voyages of Captain John Smith to chart the land and waterways of the Chesapeake. Along with the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, it is one of two water trails designated as National Historic Trails.
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!
Park Photos
Activities
Operating Hours
Trail 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.
| mon | tue | wed | thu | fri | sat | sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Day | All Day | All Day | All Day | All Day | All Day | All Day |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail?
Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail is free to enter.
What are the best activities at Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail?
Popular activities at Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail include: Arts and Culture, Craft Demonstrations, Cultural Demonstrations, Boating, Sailing, Boat Tour, Camping, Canoe or Kayak Camping.
What is the weather like at Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail?
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. We strongly recommended you carry a bottle of water with you and wear a life jacket at all times. During the winter, be aware that submersion in freezing cold water can be deadly. If you are going out, bring safety gear such as a wetsuit and practice techniques to avoid tipping over.
How do I get to Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail?
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.
Entrance Fees
Free Admission
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. We strongly recommended you carry a bottle of water with you and wear a life jacket at all times. During the winter, be aware that submersion in freezing cold water can be deadly. If you are going out, bring safety gear such as a wetsuit and practice techniques to avoid tipping over.
Directions
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.
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Official Resources
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