From sandy beaches and a cypress swamp, to towering cliffs and mature forests, the trails of Calvert County, Md., offer hikers a wide array of opportunities no matter their skill level. With the Chesapeake Bay to the east and Patuxent River to the west, encounter countless scenic spots along the way.
American Chestnut Land Trust 
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary
Discover 22 miles of public trails by the bay at the American Chestnut Land Trust either by yourself, or on a guided hike led by master naturalists through wildflower meadows, ridge tops, and stream valleys. Follow the boardwalk in Battle Creek Cypress Swamp as you listen for the sounds of the frogs and songbirds in this rare wetland habitat. Got kids? They’ll love the newly renovated nature-packed visitor center at Battle Creek too!
Keep an eye out for more than 600 species of fossils that can be found at Calvert Cliffs State Park on your way to epic views of the bay. Sift through the sandy beach to find that perfect shark’s tooth and send the kids to play on the recycled tire playground, complete with a huge dragon made completely out of tires! Still haven’t had enough? Head out for a peaceful stroll through the woods and meadows at Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm, the bay overlooks at Flag Ponds Nature Park, or the reconstructed Native American village at Jefferson Patterson Park.
Looking for a low-impact outing? Check out Calvert County’s several self-guided driving tours. Meander through curvy, back country roads along the Calvert County Barn Quilt Trail, search out fine feathered friends on the Calvert County Birding Trail, ride the roads on the Roots & Tides Byway and explore local history on the brand new African American Heritage Trail.
Calvert Marine Museum 
Annmarie Sculpture Garden Arts Center
Did you catch us on a rainy day? There are plenty of entertaining and fun indoor activities here too! Admire lovely artworks by local artists at Annmarie Garden Art Center, check out their nature nook, and take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir from the gift shop on your way to the Calvert Marine Museum to check out the gargantuan Megalodon shark jaws! Say “hi” to some otters as they splash and play at the museum and take some well-spent time to explore the maritime history of the Chesapeake Bay.
Itching for more Chesapeake Bay history? Check out the Bayside History Museum with its cool tchotchkes and memorabilia from decades past representing bayside towns and attractions. Then head over to the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum to learn the fascinating story of the town of Chesapeake Beach including stories of a vintage 1900s wooden rollercoaster that hovered over the bay waters, a charming carousel, hoppin’ band shell and more. Sadly, nothing remains of this part of the town’s heyday, but it’s all been captured in beautiful vintage photos and descriptions adorning the walls of this newly renovated museum.
At the end of the day, unwind at one of the many waterfront restaurants, or explore the Calvert County Wine & Ale Trail for some of the best craft beverages around.
Plan your trip today at ChooseCalvert.com!
All of these photos are courtesy of Calvert County Governmen
Cover photo: Calvert Cliffs State Park in Lusby, Md.
