INTO THE BLUE

TWENTY-ONE WAYS TO HIKE, BIKE, AND PADDLE AROUND THE CHESAPEAKE BAY.

- RON CASSIE AND LYDIA WOOLEVER

AFTER WHAT FELT LIKE the longest spring on record, there’s one thing we can thank the coronavirus pandemic for: a newfound appreciation for the great outdoors. In an age of excessive screen time and extended stays in sweatpants, the natural world offers us an opportunity to unplug, stretch our legs, and get a breath of fresh air outside the confines of our own abodes. As of press time, statewide restrictions have eased and high summer is officially upon us, so there’s no better time to get outside, where the risk of coronavirus transmission is lower. And considering Maryland’s peak heat and humidity, we suggest you start your adventures on the edge of one of Earth’s great wonders— our Chesapeake Bay. With nearly 12,000 miles of shoreline, endless options for hikes, bikes, and paddles await.

Eastern Shore

BIKE

Oxford Loop

EASTON

This classic, 33-mile Eastern Shore ride loops between Easton and Oxford, passes several quaint towns and includes a trip on the historic OxfordBellevue Ferry, which began operations in 1683. This on-road trek mostly tracks Routes 333 and 370 and can also be accessed from the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. While not marked, its few turns are easy to follow after printing or downloading a map from tourtalbot.org, which highlights five other local rides, ranging from 26 to 38 miles, from area farmlands to the “Chesapeake Views” down to Tilghman Island.

Blackwater Loop CAMBRIDGE