Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network, Ecological network in Chesapeake Bay region, United States.
The Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network is a collection of over 150 parks, museums, historic sites, and water trails spread across the bay's surrounding region. It extends from New York down to Virginia and includes nature preserves, trails, and recreational waterways that provide access to the bay and its shores.
The network was established in 1998 to provide public access to the bay's natural and cultural areas. This initiative grew from a need to protect and share the bay's resources for education and recreation.
The network showcases Native American heritage, maritime traditions, and historic communities that shaped the region's identity over time. These places show how people have lived with and used the bay for generations.
The network sites have signage and information boards to help visitors navigate and learn about local areas. Checking the network's website before visiting helps you find the activities and locations that match your interests.
Some locations in the network are home to rare cypress trees that recall when Native Americans harvested them for boat building. These trees are a botanical rarity at such northern latitudes, making them notable to encounter during a visit.
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