Ways to Explore Southern Maryland's Scenic and Historic Routes

Ways to Explore Southern Maryland's Scenic and Historic Routes. . , Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail , This unique trail is designed for you to experience by boat. It is America's first waterway national historic trail and includes more than 3,000 miles explored by Captain John Smith., The route is marked as several sites on the water by special buoys that are part of the Chesapeake Bay Interpretive Buoy System (CBIS). Accessible by cell phone or internet, these buoys transmit data that includes historical information related to Captain John Smith's explorations., Religious Freedom National Scenic Byway , Automobile is the best way to experience this byway. You can explore various sites, churches, homes, parks, and museums, to learn about the very first attempt in American to introduce religious toleration and separation of church from state. If you would like to tour any of the churches, we recommend contacting their administrative offices before you visit., Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail , Southern Maryland was an attractive target for British raids during the War of 18 12. Along the trail are the sites of the largest naval engagement in Maryland waters. Follow the route of British warships as they sailed to and from their attacks on Washington and Baltimore. Explore historic sites such as Sotterly Plantation, which was raided in 1814 when at least 48 enslaved people sought freedom on British ships., Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail , This evolving trail network is a portal into the region's history, culture, and ecology. As the metropolitan area expands, hiking, bicycling, paddling, horseback riding, and related outdoor recreation activities provide you with opportunities for intimate connections with the river, its tributaries, and the region's distinctive landscapes.