Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

Overview

Imagine a world of deep, ancient forests, strong, proud people and water teeming with life. Such was the Chesapeake that Captain John Smith and his fellow travelers encountered on their journeys through this “goodly bay” and its rivers. Follow in the wake of Smith's journeys on the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail, America's first national water trail.

		Captain John Smith's Chesapeake Voyages The story of John Smith's expeditions around the Chesapeake has become the stuff of legend, lore, and intensive research by scholars. Learn about Smith, his voyages, the boat he used and where to explore and learn about his explorations.

		NOAA’s Chesapeake Bay Interpretive Buoys launched in May The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is leading a partnership to develop "smart buoys" to guide adventurers along the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail. These state-of-the-art, interactive buoys are currently accessible via the internet and cellular phones. The buoys provide important cultural, geographic and historical information while transmitting real-time scientific data for research and education. The first interpretive buoy was launched in May near the mouth of the James River. To interact with the buoys, visit www.buoybay.org.

Write to

NPS Chesapeake Bay Program Office
410 Severn Avenue, Suite 109
Annapolis, MD 21403

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(410) 267-5720

Climate

The weather on the Bay is hot and humid during summer, temperate in the fall and late spring, and cold in winter. The Chesapeake Bay stretches from the mouth of the Susquehanna River in Eastern Maryland to Norfolk, VA. Therefore, weather can vary greatly from location to location.