As the Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway travels along the banks of its namesake bay in rural Maryland, it takes you on a distinctive journey through the northwest portion of the Delmarva Peninsula countryside. It's a perfect trip, whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or one who loves fine seafood or a good B&B. The relaxed environment along the Byway creates a contrast with the booming city life across the bay.
The centerpiece of the Byway is the world-famous Chesapeake Bay. Find a sailboat, powerboat, canoe, or any other watercraft, and head out to its open waters from over twenty launch ramps and thirty-some marinas. Be sure to allow for the bay's shallow depths when planning your day. The canoe rider or kayaker can obtain quiet and solitude in shallow areas, while the captains of larger boats will have plenty of room to explore the deeper waters. At the end of a good boating day, set up a barbecue on Rock Hall or Betterton Beach and watch the sun set over the vast expanse of water.
A variety of rare birds and hundreds of species of fish spend at least some of the year in or near Chesapeake Bay, inviting birdwatchers and fishermen from all over the country. Charter a boat, take a rowboat, or fish from the banks of the bay and Sassafras River, testing your angling skills against alewife, bluefish, perch, or the sought-after striped bass. Call it "rockfish" if you want to be mistaken for a local. The bay's waters and surrounding wetlands attract an assortment of birds, including great blue herons, Foster's terns, and the occasional eagle. While in the area, learn about the fragility of this complex ecosystem and the steps that have been taken to preserve it for future generations.
To get a sense of the Bay's history, imagine pirates raiding trade ships in its waters, or picture the mighty sea battles that raged across the bay during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. In Georgetown hear the story of legendary beauty Kitty Knight, whose strong will and bravery in defending an invalid neighbor stopped the British forces from burning a church and two brick houses. Explore the streets of Chestertown and take a historic house and garden tour or relax in its Town Square. Tour Washington College, one of the nation's oldest liberal arts schools. Founded with help from George Washington in 1782, the college still accepts students today.
Take to your bike and enjoy a pleasant ride through the restored historic districts and winding country lanes in the towns along the Byway. The rides range from the flat and easy Cliff City Crabber's Special to the challenging fifty-mile Rock Hall Ramble. Whatever route you pick, you'll pedal past historic sites and quaint and fascinating shops. Stop in for a well-deserved lunch at one of the famous restaurants in the area, replenishing your energy with fresh-caught seafood cooked to perfection.
As you travel among the towns along the Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway, revel in the early American history around you, spend your days playing among the waves in the Chesapeake Bay, and enjoy the rural mid-Atlantic culture. If you don't want to leave right away, the area's exquisitely restored bed and breakfasts make a good argument for staying a while.
Chesapeake Country Byway Boating
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