Chesapeake Beach: Guided Walking Tour of the Railway Trail

Chesapeake Beach’s Railway Trail has long been a beloved fixture of the community, serving as a vital transportation link and a source of recreation for both locals and visitors alike. Today, this historic corridor offers a captivating guided walking tour that promises to transport guests back in time, while also showcasing the town’s commitment to environmental conservation. With the guide’s engaging storytelling, visitors can expect to uncover the trail’s rich history, spot local wildlife, and learn about the innovative ways Chesapeake Beach is working to preserve the natural beauty of this cherished landmark. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, this guided tour is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Railway Trail.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Guided Tours In Maryland.

Key Points

• Discover the vital role the historic Railway Trail played in Chesapeake Beach’s development as a transportation link and resort destination.
• Explore the captivating history and stories of the Railway Trail during a guided walking tour led by a knowledgeable guide.
• Observe diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, along the trail and learn about the educational garden showcasing mosquito-repelling plants.
• Witness the conservation efforts along the trail, including bat boxes and purple martin houses that help control mosquito populations.
• The tour starts at Kellam Field and lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with a minimum of 5 participants required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Railway Trail’s Importance in Chesapeake Beach

The Railway Trail played a pivotal role in establishing Chesapeake Beach as a thriving resort town in the late 19th century. Serving as a vital transportation link, the trail connected the town to nearby Washington, D.C., allowing easy access for visitors and facilitating the shipment of goods and supplies.

As the town grew in popularity, the trail became an integral part of the local infrastructure, transporting both people and materials essential for the development of the resort. The trail’s strategic location and efficient transportation capabilities were crucial factors in Chesapeake Beach’s transformation into a popular vacation destination, catering to the growing demand for leisure and recreation in the region.

Exploring the Historic Railway Trail

On the guided walking tour, visitors explore the historic Railway Trail, seeing the captivating history that shaped Chesapeake Beach’s development.

Along the trail, they discover how this railway line played a pivotal role in establishing the town as a popular seaside destination. The tour guide shares fascinating insights, bringing the trail’s past to life through engaging storytelling.

Visitors are delighted to spot wildlife like bald eagles soaring overhead and learn about the educational garden highlighting plants that repel mosquitoes. The tour also showcases bat boxes and purple martin houses, demonstrating the community’s efforts to support local wildlife.

Through this immersive experience, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the Railway Trail’s enduring legacy and its vital contribution to Chesapeake Beach’s rich history.

Discovering Local Wildlife Along the Trail

As visitors stroll along the Railway Trail, they’re treated to an array of captivating wildlife sightings. Majestic bald eagles soar overhead, their impressive wingspans commanding attention.

The educational garden showcases plants known for their mosquito-repelling properties.

Along the trail, visitors can spot bat boxes and purple martin houses, testaments to the local community’s efforts to support native wildlife. These unique features not only enhance the trail experience but also provide valuable insights into the delicate ecosystems that thrive in the area.

The guided tour offers a chance to learn about the diverse flora and fauna that call this historic railway corridor home, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of Chesapeake Beach.

Educational Garden for Mosquito Repellent

Along the Railway Trail, visitors can explore an educational garden that showcases plants known for their ability to repel mosquitoes.

The garden features a variety of fragrant herbs and flowers, each with unique properties that help keep mosquitoes at bay. Visitors can learn about:

• Lemongrass, with its citrusy scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant
• Lavender, whose calming aroma acts as a natural insect repellent
• Marigolds, whose strong scent and yellow blooms deter mosquitoes
• Catnip, which not only attracts cats but also repels mosquitoes
• Citronella, the quintessential mosquito-repelling plant found in many gardens

This educational space provides valuable insights into how to create a mosquito-free oasis, empowering visitors to cultivate their own natural pest control solutions.

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Bat Boxes and Purple Martin Houses

Along With the educational garden, the Railway Trail also features specially designed bat boxes and purple martin houses to support the local wildlife.

These structures provide vital roosting and nesting sites for bats and purple martins, which play important roles in the local ecosystem.

The bat boxes offer a safe and sheltered environment for bats to rest and raise their young, helping to control mosquito populations.

Similarly, the purple martin houses attract these migratory birds that feast on insects, providing natural pest control.

Participants on the guided tour can observe these unique wildlife habitats and learn about the important conservation efforts along the Railway Trail.

Meeting Point and Tour Duration

The guided walking tour starts and ends at Kellam Field, located at 3825 Gordon Stinnett Avenue in Chesapeake Beach, Maryland. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours as participants explore the Railway Trail and learn about its historical significance in establishing the town.

During the tour, visitors can expect to:

• Discover the local history of the old Railway Trail
• Learn how the trail helped establish Chesapeake Beach
• Spot wildlife such as bald eagles
• Explore an educational garden about repelling mosquitoes
• See bat boxes and purple martin houses supporting local wildlife

The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide, and transportation is included.

Tour Inclusions and Requirements

This guided walking tour of the Railway Trail in Chesapeake Beach includes a knowledgeable guide who leads participants through the history and highlights of the trail.

Visitors can expect the tour to last approximately 1.5 hours, and transportation to and from the starting point at Kellam Field is provided.

The tour requires a minimum of 5 participants, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests will have the opportunity to explore the educational garden about repelling mosquitoes, spot wildlife such as bald eagles, and see bat boxes and purple martin houses supporting local fauna.

Book now and pay later to secure your spot on this informative and engaging Railway Trail adventure.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Guests can book this guided walking tour of the Railway Trail now and pay later, allowing them the flexibility to secure their spot in advance.

The tour requires a minimum of 5 participants, but visitors can cancel their reservation for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

The booking and cancellation policy for this tour includes:

• Guests can book the tour now and pay later
• A minimum of 5 participants is required for the tour to run
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time
• Flexible booking options to accommodate visitors’ schedules
• Easy and convenient reservation process for a stress-free experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour appears suitable for children, as it includes educational elements like an informative garden and wildlife spotting opportunities. However, the minimum group size requirement may make it less ideal for small groups with young children.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The guide will provide information about nearby picnic areas along the Railway Trail where visitors can enjoy their snacks and beverages during the walking tour.

Are There Any Restrooms Along the Trail?

There are public restrooms available along the Railway Trail in Chesapeake Beach. Participants can use the facilities at the start/end point, Kellam Field, as well as at other locations throughout the 1.5-hour guided walking tour.

Do We Need to Wear Any Special Clothing?

The tour doesn’t require any special clothing, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended. Participants should dress for the outdoors and be prepared for the walking tour’s terrain and potential weather conditions.

Is the Trail Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible?

The trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with smooth, level surfaces throughout. Visitors can easily explore the scenic path and discover the local wildlife and educational displays along the way.

Recap

The guided walking tour of Chesapeake Beach’s historic Railway Trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the town’s past.

Visitors can discover the trail’s significance, spot local wildlife, and learn about the community’s conservation efforts along the corridor.

With an engaging guide, this tour provides an enriching experience that brings the trail’s legacy to life.

You can check availability for your dates here: