Greenbook: A Local Guide to Chesapeake Living - Issue 8 | Page 52

Explore Chesapeake Country I n this issue of GreenBook, we’ve introduced you to all things Chesapeake, from Jay Fleming’s beautiful and thought-provoking images, to Cathy Purple Cherry’s architectural aesthetic to recipes featuring Chesapeake delicacies. Here, we present some of our favorite places to visit. Obviously, there is no way to list all the places we would love to show you, but this is a good start. Check out our Facebook page, keyword Chesapeake to find more! BLACKWATER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE (DORCHESTER COUNTY) Established in 1933 as a waterfowl sanctuary for birds migrating along the Atlantic Flyway, BNWR has more than 27,000 acres of freshwater impoundments, brackish tidal wetlands, open fields, and mixed evergreen and deciduous forests. FAVORITE SPOT: driving slowly along the loop to discover camouflaged wildlife, spying through the telescopes upstairs in the HQ, a cool moment in the native garden, kayaking at sunset. JUG BAY WETLANDS (ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY) 1,500 acres of tidal freshwater wetlands, forests, meadows and fields. The wetlands are home to all sorts of wildlife. Miles of trails and boardwalks traverse a variety of habitats and provide glimpses into the rich history of the region. FAVORITE SPOT: any of the occasional classes, camps and events JBW offers members. St Mary's City ST. MARY’S CITY (ST. MARY’S COUNTY) Take a step back into Maryland’s colonial history. FAVORITE SPOT: Stroll along the Aldermanbury Footpath, turning off onto a short trail that connects the original town to a small museum. Continue past the museum and across Rosecroft Road, where the trail winds through woods, over streams and along the waterfront. Find the wild hogs and the walnut tree. PATAPSCO VALLEY STATE PARK (HOWARD COUNTY) Extending along 32 miles of the Patapsco River, PCSP covers 16,043 acres and has 8 developed recreational areas. There are 70 miles of maintained trails. FAVORITE SPOT: playing in streams and waterfalls along Cascade Falls Trail. Note: Bloede’s Dam and Grist Mill trail will be inaccessible through 2017. 52 GREENBOOK | SUMMER 2016 Patapsco Valley State Park