This trail features four access points and provides paddlers with the opportunity to explore the quiet marshes of Leonardtown or the open waters of Breton Bay.
Distance: Following along the shoreline, it is approximately 2.4 miles from the Port of Leonardtown Park to Leonardtown Wharf Public Park; 0.6 miles from Leonardtown Wharf Public Park to Camp Calvert; and 3 miles from Camp Calvert to Abell’s Wharf. More experienced paddlers may paddle the full distance of approximately 6 miles.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate along McIntosh Run, but can be difficult in wider waters along lower Breton Bay depending on wind and weather conditions.
The upper section of this route is ideal for novice paddlers. Begin at the Port of Leonardtown Park on McIntosh Run. Head south along McIntosh Run for approximately 2 miles. The trail here meanders through a sheltering canopy of trees which is home to Bald Eagles, Baltimore Orioles, wild turkeys and other bird species. The trail opens up at Breton Bay and large marsh areas will be visible to the right along with a few large waterfront homes. Continue paddling for approximately another half mile. More marshes and duck blinds hidden among the cattails can be seen to the right. The Leonardtown Wharf Public Park will be on the left side.
More experienced paddlers may take a more challenging route by continuing to Camp Calvert Landing and the larger waters of Breton Bay to Abell’s Wharf.
Port of Leonardtown Park
GPS: 38 18′ 14.31″ N 76 39′ 23.72″ W
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Managed by: Commissioners of Leonardtown, (301) 475-9791
Amenities: Handicap accessible, soft launch for canoes and kayaks only. Kayak/canoe rentals are available.
Directions: Drive south on Route 5 toward Leonardtown. Turn right at Newtowne Neck Road / Route 243. Turn left at the Port of Leonardtown Winery sign (approximately 0.16 miles) and drive to the end of the road.
Address: 23190 Newtowne Neck Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Leonardtown Wharf Public Park
GPS: 38 17′ 09.62″ N 76 38′ 17.37″ W
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Managed by: Commissioners of Leonardtown, (301) 475-9791
Amenities: Public restrooms, seasonal concession stand and close proximity to restaurants. This site is suitable for canoe and kayak launching only and features a stepdown, floating launch platform. Parking is very limited.
Directions: Drive South on Route 5 toward Leonardtown. Turn right onto Washington Street and drive to the end.
Address: 22500 Washington Street, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Camp Calvert Landing
GPS: 38 17′ 03.63″N 76 37′ 44.41″ W
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Managed by: St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation and Parks
Amenities: This landing is for canoe and kayak access only. Very small parking lot accommodates no more than two vehicles. Parking is minimal so drive to the landing to dropoff kayaks and canoes and park elsewhere. Be cautious of power boats and jet ski traffic when using this landing.
Directions: Drive south on Route 5 toward Leonardtown. Turn right onto Fenwick Street and make a left onto Camp Calvert Road. Drive to the end of Camp Calvert Road.
Address: 22530 Camp Calvert Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Abell’s Wharf
GPS: 38 15′ 38.46″ N 76 38′ 42.51″ W
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Managed by: St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation and Parks
Amenities: Boat ramp and pier, parking lot (for 20 cars) and seasonal portable toilet.
Directions: Follow Route 5 south to Route 244 west to Breton Beach Road. Then turn right onto Abell’s Wharf Road.
Address: 21620 Abell’s Wharf Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650
