Maryland has over 750 miles of water trails and several access sites around the state for people to enjoy! From the beautiful Great Chesapeake Bay Loop to shorter paddles, Maryland has water trails that show off the state’s beautiful aquatic resources. Many are developed through partnerships with local governments, community associations, and nonprofit organizations. Learn more about the water trail designation and where to find a trail or access site near you.

Map of Public Water Access Sites

Supporting Public Access

The Office of Outdoor Recreation supports public access to the water by:

• Coordinates the planning and development of public water access and water trails statewide.
• Provides technical, mapping and design assistance to local governments to plan, implement, and promote water trails;
• Creates and maintains statewide public water access data; and
• Promotes safe and responsible boating and paddling practices

Water Trail Designation

All Maryland Water Trails must meet the following requirements to receive the official designation:

• The trail route must follow an identified route along a waterway or waterways in Maryland. The route must also be reviewed and approved by the Office of Outdoor Recreation.
• There must be public access sites along the trail route that are owned, managed, and maintained by a specific entity or entities, such as a municipal, local, state, or federal agency, to ensure user safety, legal access, and compliance with state rules, regulations, and goals;
• The trail and its associated access site(s) must be accessible and open to the public;
• The trail must have an existing map and/or guide;
• The trail must have an interpretive component that:
• Helps to share historical or cultural information relevant to the setting of the trail.
• Fosters natural resources stewardship ethics.
• Educates the boating public about state boating regulations and requirements.
• Promotes boating safety.

Officially designated water trails will be posted on the Maryland Water Trails web page and included in promotional materials. For more information on the designation process or to request technical assistance, contact [email protected].

View water trails by region by clicking below

• Western region
• Central region
• Southern region
• Eastern region - north
• Eastern region - south

Paddle a Maryland Water Trail

Guide your paddle through the silvery waters of Maryland’s Water Trails for a unique adventure all your own. Choose from an extensive network of water trails that offers up everything from a half-day tranquil escape, perfect for those new to the sport, to an adventure-packed trip or an overnight paddling vacation for those with some paddling miles in their rearview.

Hundreds of miles of water trails present boundless opportunities to explore diverse and stunning landscapes. Each trail is distinctive. Each has an identified route that is mapped, includes public access sites, and shares fun facts about the historical and cultural sites on the trail.

Glide along a wondrously lively mountain stream, weaving through pinnacles and lush mountain greenery. Paddle peacefully through coastal salt marshes, observing waterfowl on the water or perching in tall grasses. Take in the unusual perspective of a city by the water's edge and discover exceptional gems, like a blazing sunset over an urban skyline. The opportunities are endless … the choice is yours.