CityLens
Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail
Park

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

1368 Colonial Parkway

Jamestown, VA

Directions

Type

Park

Lens

Landmarks

About this place

People first arrived in the Chesapeake Bay during the last ice age. As glaciers melted, diverse societies learned to thrive in a world of water. When Englishman Captain John Smith explored the Bay in 1608, he documented hundreds of American Indian communities. Today, sites on his map are archeological treasures and sacred sites for tribal citizens. Come join us on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay!

Website

National Park Service information

Hours

Trail Operating Hours

Monday
All Day
Tuesday
All Day
Wednesday
All Day
Thursday
All Day
Friday
All Day
Saturday
All Day
Sunday
All Day

The water trail is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year! To launch your kayak or other vessel on the trail, access a local boat launch along one of the trail's many tributary rivers and coastlines. Local boat launches, state parks, and other locations have specific operating hours and seasons. Always check weather and conditions before going out on the water - take care during the winter months to dress appropriately for the weather and the possibility of submersion in cold water.

Directions

The water trail is 3,000 miles long and there are countless places to explore it. The trail's headquarters and main visitor center is at Colonial National Historical Park - Historic Jamestowne. For an internet map search or GPS, use the following: Historic Jamestowne Visitor Center, 1368 Colonial Parkway, Jamestown, Virginia 23081.

Official directions

Weather & Seasonal Notes

During the summer season, visitors should dress in light, comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing, and use sunscreen. High temperatures and humidity create a higher risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. We strongly recommended you carry a bottle of water with you and wear a life jacket at all times. During the winter, be aware that submersion in freezing cold water can be deadly. If you are going out, bring safety gear such as a wetsuit and practice techniques to avoid tipping over.

Activities

Arts and CultureCraft DemonstrationsCultural DemonstrationsBoatingSailingBoat TourCampingCanoe or Kayak CampingCar or Front Country CampingRV CampingCompass and GPSGeocachingFishingFoodPicnickingGuided ToursBoat TourHands-OnArts and CraftsHikingFront-Country HikingPaddlingCanoeingCanoe or Kayak CampingKayakingStand Up PaddleboardingWhitewater RaftingJunior Ranger ProgramTubingRiver TubingSwimmingWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingMuseum Exhibits

Courtesy of the National Park Service

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