Water Trails
Paddling Opportunities
The Chesapeake Bay region is home to dozens of water trails and paddling opportunities, from the Chemung River in New York State to the Elizabeth River in Virginia Beach and everything in-between. Click on one of the state's below to see what it has to offer. Please note that boating, canoeing, kayaking and other activities on rivers can be dangerous. Plan your trip carefully and follow all safety precautions.
Interested? Check out the options below listed by state.
Are we missing something? Email info@chesapeakeconservancy.org so we can add it. Here is a list of maps you can purchase for area water trails as well.
Delaware / District of Columbia / Maryland / New York / Pennsylvania / Virginia /
Nanticoke Water Trail - Eagles, osprey, marshes and cypress swamps. The Nanticoke offers all that and more along more than 60 miles from its headwaters in Delaware south to Tangier Sound in Dorchester County, Maryland. Much of the land along the river corridor is undeveloped and privately owned, but portions of private land are protected by non-profit organizations and state and local parks. As such, the river corridor is ideal for wildlife including migratory birds. Bass fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing are also popular. For information on the water trail in Delaware, including a list of public access points visit this site You can also visit PaddleTheNanticoke.com for helpful hints and ideas on trip planning on and near the river
Anacostia Water Trail - Check out a new guide to this historic river that runs throught the Nation's Capital. The guide features maps and trails that highlight historical, cultural, natural and recreational points of interest on or adjacent to the river, which can be explored by car, bike, foot and water. It also includes historical facts, safety guidelines and information on the environment and conservation of the Anacostia.guide encourages the recreational use of the river and recognizes the Anacostia as the vital resource that it is." Learn more about the Anacostia River and check out other maps offered by the Anancostia Watershed Society.
Potomac River Water Trail [DC,MD,VA] - The tidal stretch of the Potomac River passes through a landscape rich with history before flowing into the Chesapeake Bay. Historic Alexandria, Mt. Vernon, George Washington's Birthplace, the site where Maryland was founded and the colony's first capital, Robert E. Lee's family home, Point Lookout - these are some of the many sites along the Potomac River Water Trail. The Potomac River Water Trail helps you explore this almost 100 mile route the original way - by water. Along the way, experience the Potomac's natural areas and wildlife, and parts of the region that seem little changed from earlier times. Obtain a water trail map and guide in advance, plan your trip, and follow all safety precautions.
Assateague and Coastal Bays Water Trails Guide (Worcester County) (Developing)
Maryland DNR is working in partnership with Worcester County, the Coastal Bays Program, the Town of Ocean City and Delmarva Low Impact Tourism Experiences (DLITE) to develop a network of water trails that utilize existing public landings and guide visitors across the waters of the Coastal Bays and over to Assateague Island seashore. Historic, cultural and tourist resources will also be featured in the guide. A water trails committee was formed in 2008 and has been working steadily to identify and map paddling routes and develop interpretive information for the area. This project is still in development and maps are not yet available. For more information send an e-mail inquiry to DLITE at dlitedirector@comcast.net.
Choptank and Tuckahoe Rivers Water Trail - The Choptank is the longest of the rivers on the Chesapeake Bay's Eastern Shore. Paddling or boating along the Choptank and its primary tributary, the Tuckahoe River, is a wonderful way to explore this classic Chesapeake landscape where steamboats, sail craft, and dugout canoes once plied the rivers. Captain John Smith did not explore these rivers (the present-day James Islands, then connected to the mainland, obstructed his view of the wide mouth of the Choptank). His map noted the area as wooded interior, but he did not note the area's habitation by the Transquaking, Ababco, and Hatsawap groups. His description was apt, as the Choptank Valley area was heavily forested by oaks, hickories, and chestnuts. A mature forest can still be seen today at the Adkins Arboretum near Tuckahoe State Park. The Choptank & Tuckahoe Rivers Water Trail encompasses 80 miles along the two rivers, linking multiple public access points and many natural and historic areas, The Water Trail allows visitors to experience the rich heritage of the Choptank and Tuckahoe rivers in canoes, kayaks ,and small powerboats. Obtain a water trail map and guide in advance, plan your trip, and follow all safety precautions.
Janes Island Water Trails - Janes Island State Park features approximately 2900 acres of marsh, beach, and high land. Most of the park's waterways are protected from wind and current and provide ideal conditions for paddlers of all abilities. The Janes Island State Park Water Trail map features six different trails, all of which begin and end at the Janes Island Park Marina and boat launch. For more information contact Janes Island State Park at 410-968-1565 or send an e-mail inquiry to Park-Janes-Island@dnr.state.md.us. Copies of this waterproof map can be obtained for $3 at the Janes Island State Park office or by using the online order format.
Monocacy River Water Trail - The Monocacy River Water Trail is a self-guided tour of the river for canoeists and kayakers from the Monocacy Battlefield to the Monocacy Aqueduct in Maryland. The trail takes paddlers through landscapes once inhabited by Native Americans and early European settlers who were attracted to this fertile valley. It provides opportunities to observe diverse wildlife and historic sites. The trail also provides river travelers with a new perspective on the resources of the Monocacy that inspires commitment to conservation and restoration. For more information about Monocacy River Water Trail visit the following website: http://www.communitycommons.org/.
Smith Island Water Trails - Though best known as a waterman's community, Smith Island is also a paddler's paradise for day or overnight trips. The island is located 9 miles offshore from Crisfield, Maryland and can only be reached by boat. Ferries leave twice daily from Crisfield and will carry kayaks for a small fee. Meandering creeks run throughout the island's 8000 acres of marsh and provide extensive paddling routes close to three island villages. The Smith Island Water Trails Paddler's Guide details seven, marked, water trails, which vary in length from 1 to 4.4 miles, but there are also huge expanses of open water which offer endless opportunities for the experienced paddler. The open water routes are unmarked and local knowledge should be consulted before embarking. To get a copy of the Paddler's Guide send an e-mail request to dlitedirector@comcast.net or visit www.dliteonline.net/.
Chemung Basin River Water Trail - The Chemung is a major tributary of the Susquehanna River, and its three tributaries (the Tioga, Canisteo and Conhocton Rivers) run through the scenic woodland and hills of the southern tier of New York and the northern tier of Pennsylvania. The Chemung Basin River Trail traverses about 80 miles of this beautiful Chemung Valley. A series of fourteen public launch sites provide easy access to the rivers. On-line maps, launch site information and scheduled events will help you plan your trip. Paddle part of the same route that early 19th century settlers used for transporting goods down stream all the way to Havre de Grace, Maryland! For more information about Chemung Basin River Trail call (607) 962-5092 or visit the following website: http://www.chemungrivertrail.com/
Juniata River Water Trail - The beautiful Juniata River flows through central Pennsylvania to where it joins the Susquehanna (a Chesapeake Bay tributary) above Harrisburg. Following the river through its picturesque valley, one can explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region. Opportunities abound for seasonal flat-water paddling for individuals and families interested in single or multi-day river trips. Annual river sojourns allow residents and visitors to experience the unique cultural, natural and historical aspects of the waterway. The Juniata River Water Trail will also be an important link in the developing Pittsburgh-to-Harrisburg Mainline Canal GreenwayTM, which connects and promotes stewardship efforts, recreation opportunities, and heritage development projects throughout the corridor. For more information about Juniata River Water Trail call (814) 940-1922 or visit the following website: http://www.mainlinecanalgreenway.org/.
Susquehanna River Water Trail - Lower Section [PA/MD]- From Harrisburg to Havre de Grace, this 65 mile stretch of the Susquehanna shows off the scope of this largest tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. The Lower Susquehanna Water Trail helps boaters, canoeists and kayakers explore and enjoy the river's history and scenic beauty. This section of the Susquehanna offers a tremendous diversity of natural and built environments. From the industrial yards of Steelton to the Conejohela Flats - an internationaly renowned bird habitat - the lower section of the Susquehanna is a contrast of working river and wilderness. A map & guide and interpretive panels at access points guide users to the water trail from Harrisburg to the Mason-Dixon line. The remaining stretch to Havre de Grace is now under development. For more information about Susquehanna River Water Trail - Lower Section visit the following website: http://www.susquehannaheritage.org/susqriver_watertrail_guide.htm.
Susquehanna River Water Trail - Middle Section - The Susquehanna River meanders 444 miles from its origin at Otsego Lake near Cooperstown, NY until it empties into the Chesapeake Bay at Havre de Grace, Md. The Susquehanna River Trail covers the middle stretch of the river - 50 miles from Sunbury downstream to Harrisburg. Along this route, boaters, canoeists and kayakers can explore the great river and its diverse scenery and habitats. River otters, beavers and other mammals are sometimes seen from the river. In May, many birds dot the landscape as spring migration is at its peak throughout the trail. Birds of prey - such as hawks, eagles, osprey, vultures, and owls - show up along the ridges and throughout the river valley much of the year. Obtain a water trail map and guide in advance, plan your trip, and follow all safety precautions. For more information about Susquehanna River Water Trail - Middle Section call (717) 948-6780 or visit the following website: http://susquehannarivertrail.org/.
Susquehanna River Water Trail - North Branch [PA/NY] - The North Branch of the Susquehanna River flows from New York through Pennsylvania to Sunbury where it joins the West Branch and forms the river's main stem - the largest tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. The North Branch Susquehanna River Water Trail was designated a National Recreation Trail of the National Park Service in 2009. The water trail is part of the Pennsylvania Water Trail System coordinated by Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. Free water trail maps are now available. The North Branch Water Trail Map & Guide is now available - A comprehensive river map and guide for paddlers and river enthusiasts providing for a special experience on the North Branch of the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake watershed. This valuable guide was co-produced with the Pennsylvania Environmental Council or 570-718-6507. For more information about Susquehanna River Water Trail - North Branch visit the following websites: http://www.pecpa.org/, http://www.endlessmountainsheritage.org/.
Susquehanna River Water Trail - West Branch - For 228 miles along the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, you can soon explore Pennsylvania's wild lands, scenic beauty and history by water. Whether you take a day trip or a multi-day paddling adventure, the West Branch Susquehanna River Water Trail will give you access to a vast region of the Chesapeake watershed. The West Branch forms the lifeblood linking what is now known as the Lumber Heritage region. Here, Pennsylvania's virgin timber was harvested throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries to supply lumber for shipbuilding, construction and coal mine props. Much of this lumber was rafted down the West Branch to markets on or near the Chesapeake Bay. Today, the West Branch flows through a northern hardwood forest of oak, cherry, maple and remnants of the great white pine and hemlock forests of early settlers' times. Boaters on the West Branch Water Trail can now learn about the region's heritage and its connections to the rivers and the Chesapeake Bay beyond through a new water trail map and guide. For more information about Susquehanna River Water Trail - West Branch call (814) 773-3162 or visit the following website: http://www.nps.gov/phso/rtca/wbrwt/watertrail.htm.
Eastern Branch Elizabeth River Water Trail -The Eastern Branch of the Elizabeth River flows from Virginia Beach through Norfolk before joining the main river and the Chesapeake Bay. This historic area combines natural wetlands and naval shipyards. The scenic Eastern Branch provides a glimpse of the environment as Captain John Smith would have seen it, with the river's forested shorelines and wetland areas. In the spring of 1608, Smith explored the Elizabeth River, finding little evidence of human inhabitants. Once home to the Chesapeake Group, archaeological resources are most likely lost due to the industrial development in the area. Today, canoeists can paddle a short portion of the upper river by launching from Carolanne Farm Neigborhood Park, and following a mapped trail route. For more information about Eastern Branch Elizabeth River Trail call (757) 427-4621.Eastern Shore Water Trails - Two loop water trails are under development on Virginia's Eastern Shore: the Onancock Creek Loop Trail and the Saxis Water Trail Loop. These trails will soon provide tremendous paddling opportunities
Lower James River Water Trail - The James River is the southernmost major tributary of the Chesapeake Bay, offering a wide range of recreational experiences. Flowing from the west, the James passes through Richmond and joins the Bay near Norfolk, not far from the Atlantic Ocean. With abundant natural fisheries and "breadbasket" marshes, the James River at the time of Captain John Smith's voyages supported eleven Algonquian-speaking groups, with some population estimates as high as 20,000. In May of 1607, the English arrived at a point up the river beyond Hog Island and established the first permanent English settlement: Jamestown. A hastily built palisade protected the English from both Spanish and Powhatan attacks. Four yeas later, another group of English colonists settled along the historic James River at Henricus. For more information about James River Water Trail - Lower visit the following website:
Mattaponi, Pamunkey and York Rivers Water Trail - The developing York River Water Trail follows approximately 120 river miles along the tidal York, Mattaponi, and Pamunkey rivers. The route spans a diverse landscape through parts of Virginia described and mapped by Captain John Smith in the 1600s. From the tidal waters near the Chesapeake Bay to the rural, fresh water rivers of the Pamunkey and Mattaponi, paddlers can explore natural estuaries and historic sites and lands still occupied by the descendants of native people who lived here for thousands of years before English settlement. Learn more at http://www.mpra.org/. And be sure to check out Taskinas Creek, a beautiful place to paddle accessible from York River State Park.
Mathews Blueways - Mathews Blueways is an interconnected system of five separate water trails spanning Mathews County on the Middle Peninsula of Virginia. The 90 miles of trails are particularly suited for small hand-powered craft such as canoes and touring kayaks. Mathews County is located on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay and offers more than 200 miles of shoreline. There are three tidal rivers and 50 navigable creeks with dozens of access sites, offering a scenic network of water and land trails to explore. Captain John Smith's shallop passed southward along the coastline of Matthews County in the darkness of the night, on July 18, 1608, staying close to the coastline to avoid the rough waters of the open Bay. Smith was injured. The previous day a cownose ray speared his wrist at the site he named Stingray Point (near Deltaville, Virginia) A few days later the shallop arrived in Jamestown, concluding Smith's first voyage of exploration of the Chesapeake, but Smith returned in August to explore the Piankatank and other rivers he had missed. For more information about Mathews Blueways Water Trails call (804) 725-4229 or visit the following website: http://www.mathewsblueways.org/.
Maury River Water Trail - This water trail runs from Cedar Grove down to the James River along 34 of the Maury's 42 mile length. One of the most beautiful whitewater rivers in Virginia, the Maury has rock walls along many stretches and boulder fields that are rearranged during high water flows. A number of wayside parks along the river offer views and access. The River is also bordered by a number of mills or mill ruins from the 1700s, well-preserved canal works from the 19th century, and one of the oldest surviving camelback bridges in the Shennandoah Valley. For more information about Maury River Water Trail call (540) 463-3777 or visit the following website: http://www.lexingtonvirginia.com/canoeing.htm.
Occoquan Water Trail - Natural, cultural and recreational resources abound along the 40 mile route of the Occoquan Water Trail on its journey to the Chesapeake Bay. From its beginnings on narrow, tree-lined Bull Run to the open waters and tidal estuaries of the Potomac River, the Occoquan Water Trail offers paddlers the chance to experience a broad range of paddling adventures, scenic vistas, and historic landscapes on its route. This water trail meets the Potomac River Water Trail beyond the Mason Neck peninsula, accessing seven regional parks, a county, two state parks and two National Wildlife Refuges and nearby town of Occoquan on its way. It includes areas once visited by Captain John Smith and long occupied by Native Americans. Facilities, including boat rentals are available at several public parks. For more information about Occoquan Water Trail call (703) 352-5900 or visit the following website: http://www.nvrpa.org/parks/occoquanwater/.
Rappahannock River Water Trail - The Rappahannock River, the longest free flowing river in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, extends from its origin at Chester Gap in the Shenandoah National Park of western Virginia to Stingray Point in the Chesapeake Bay, a total of 184 miles. Development of a water trail along a portion of the Rappahannock is being coordinated by the Friends of the Rappahannock in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. The water trail will cover historical paddling trips from Kelly's Ford to the Fredericksburg City Docks - the middle section of the river.
The section of the Rappahannock River from just below the Route 95 bridge to just below the cut stone abutment remains of the former 1854 Crib Dam and former concrete Embry Dam is open for Public Use. The former flat water area now consists of class I to III white water rapids which should be carefully scouted. Several areas of dangerous strainers (trees, brush and undercut rocks) can be found on the river's right side. River conditions can be expected to change due to the recent removal of the dams and related sediment.
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