Explores the picturesque vistas spanning numerous miles of the Chesapeake Bay Shoreline, encompassed by Virginia's National Historic Trail.
Exploring the Captain John Smith National Historic Trail: A Journey Through History and Nature
The Captain John Smith National Historic Trail, the first water-based national historic trail in the United States, stretches over 3,000 miles through the Chesapeake Bay. This trail offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and early American heritage, making it one of the prettiest places to paddle in America, particularly on the East Coast.
Accessing the Trail
Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) is the best airport for travelers to access the trail. Two ideal cities to base a visit to the trail are Annapolis, Maryland, and Richmond, Virginia. These cities offer a range of accommodations and easy access to trail segments. Expect to spend between $120 to $250 a night in either city, depending on the season.
Starting Points
The best places to start a kayak journey on the trail include Point Lookout State Park and Kiptopeke State Park in Virginia. Point Lookout offers a striking entry point with rugged shorelines and open bay waters, ideal for a scenic and historically rich launch into the Chesapeake Bay. Kiptopeke State Park provides kayak launching access on the Chesapeake Bay, though not from the boat ramp or swim beach specifically; it is a suitable location for solo kayaks and small craft.
Recommended Outfitters
For rental and guided eco-tours, the recommended outfitter in the region is Tangent Outfitters, which operates in Virginia (Pembroke and Radford). They specialize in canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and offer guided services near the trail. Although no kayak rentals are currently available directly at Kiptopeke State Park, Tangent Outfitters is a trusted resource nearby for full-service kayak rentals and guided experiences.
Exploring the Trail
The Chesapeake Bay serves as the trail's backbone, featuring lush shorelines, salt marshes, and tidal rivers teeming with wildlife. Spring and fall are the best times to explore the trail, but be prepared for cooler water and changing weather patterns. As you paddle along, you'll encounter expansive skies, serene waters, and a strong sense of place rooted in centuries of exploration and cultural exchange.
Significant Stops
Historic Jamestowne in Virginia is a significant stop on the trail, where John Smith first encountered the Powhatan Confederacy. Visitors are advised to go early to beat the tour buses and catch the morning light on the James River. General admission to Historic Jamestowne is $15 for adults, and it is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For a quieter experience, aim for late September or early May when the air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and the waterways feel like your own. Burnham Guides Paddling Adventures offers a full-day paddle with camping along the shoreline on the Captain John Smith National Historic Trail.
Note: It is advisable to contact these parks and outfitters directly for up-to-date information on rental availability and guided tours. The trail is extensive, running through five states and the District of Columbia, so these points provide accessible and scenic starts for kayak trips on the trail.
Using travel guides to plan your journey along the Captain John Smith National Historic Trail, you'll find lifestyle recommendations for accommodations in Annapolis, Maryland, and Richmond, Virginia, which offer easy access to trail segments. To enhance your experience, consider delving into recommended travel guides for kayak rental and guided eco-tours from Tangent Outfitters, based in Virginia.
