John Smith Trail Expeditions - Public Paddles

Sultana Projects' John Smith Trail Expeditions program offers regular outings for the general public.

Spend a morning with Sultana Projects' trained staff paddling some of the most pristine sections of the National Park Service's new Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Water Trail as well as adjacent river trails.

Canoes are provided, so just bring a day-pack and be ready to explore.

Reservations required.  Please call 410-778-5954 for reservations.
 
2008 Guided public Paddles
$30 adult/$15 under 12, no children under 8
 

Lower Sassafras River
Sat., May 31
Departure Point - Turner's Creek Public Landing
10am-1pm

Come visit one of the major gateways to the newly established Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Water Trail and follow in the wake of Smith's epic 1608 exploration of the Sassafras River. This portion of the lower Sassafras - widely regarded as one of the most scenic tributaries on the upper Chesapeake - is characterized by sandy beaches, high bluffs, bald eagle nests, and numerous creeks and inlets waiting to be explored. Learn about Smith's fascinating interactions with the Tockwogh Indians while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Upper Chester River
Sat., June 21
Departure Point - Crumpton Public Landing
9am-Noon

The upper Chester River near the Route 290 bridge is one of the most scenic - and untraveled - stretches of this major Eastern Shore tributary. The voyage begins at the village of Crumpton, most known for its world famous auction held every Wednesday throughout the year. Our guide will lead you up some of the upper Chester's hidden creeks to view ospreys, bald eagles, blue heron, and a variety of tidal wetland habitats. Learn about the local Native American tribes first recorded in this area by Captain John Smith during his voyages of 1608.

Morgan Creek (off Chester River)
Sat., July 26
Departure Point - Riley's Mill Public Landing
9am-Noon

Morgan Creek is one of the hidden gems of Kent County. A major tributary of the Chester River lined almost entirely by agricultural fields, the Creek is lightly traveled and full of majestic tidewater scenery. Bald eagle and osprey sightings are common, and both shorelines are lined with acres of wetlands populated with cattails, wild rice, arrow arum (Tuckahoe) and marsh mallow. Morgan Creek is also home to a large population of muskrats, beavers, and river otters and in the spring is a destination for spawning white perch, yellow perch, and herring.

Upper Sassafras River
Sat., Sept. 13
Departure Point - Foxhole Public Landing
10am-1pm

Travel to the fall line of the Sassafras River while viewing undeveloped shorelines and a variety of wetland habitats. The upper Sassafras is as peaceful as it is scenic, and is only accessible by canoe and kayak. The route is lined with osprey nests, centuries-old farms and forested shorelines. During the voyage Sultana Projects' guide will inform participants about the Tockwogh Indians first recorded by Captain John Smith during his voyage on the Sassafras River in 1608.