Explore Miles of Family-Friendly Trails
Strap on a helmet and cycle or hike the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, an easy 8.6-mile flat-paved surface that sits adjacent to the picturesque and historic Dismal Swamp Canal. It’s perfect for people of all ages to bike or walk and horse owners to ride. The Ballahack Road Boat Ramp provides easy access to launch a boat, canoe, or kayak.
Paddle Our Gentle Waters
Don’t let the name of the Dismal Swamp Canal fool you. This spectacular and scenic waterway has a storied past. Once part of the Underground Railroad, today it’s home to kayakers of all levels who paddle 4 miles into Lake Drummond, a pristine lake no more than 6 feet at its deepest with some of the purest water around.
From the canal’s shores, you can see magnificent cypress trees and spot an otter, fox, or bald eagle. The GDS Refuge is also a resting spot for thousands of migratory birds in the spring and fall.
Enjoy Our Charming Farms
No springtime trip to Chesapeake is complete without a visit to one of our charming local farms. Each season brings new family fun and flavors to the table.
If you love fresh-baked goods, stop by Bergey’s Breadbasket. This once-local dairy sells sandwiches, seasonal home-baked pies, and jams. There is also a petting zoo for the kids.
Spring is also the time to pick your own strawberries at Hickory Ridge Farm, Mount Pleasant Farms, and Greenbrier Farms. Our farms are just the ticket if you love ice cream and tractor rides.
Eat, Drink, and Enjoy
Spring is the perfect time to try some new seasonal menus. The region has a wide range of options to take your dining experience beyond the ordinary into something special. Discover the freshest seasonal ingredients year-round.
Deep Creek Distilling offers premium small-batch spirits made by hand. Kick back on the dog-friendly outdoor patio at Garage Brewery for some of the freshest food and brews around. Big Ugly Brewing lets you choose from over 20 local beers and its large outdoor deck is a great place to soak up the local vibe. Take in a live band at Wasserhund Brewing as you gobble up pizza and other great eats. Last but certainly not least, Studly Brewing, awarded the coolest Tap Room in America, is another must-enjoy option in Chesapeake.
Bring your Binoculars
Hardcore birders everywhere journey to Chesapeake to complete their “Life List.” Peak birding season is April through June, and our birder’s paradise is home to hundreds of species. Spring is an extra special time to see a variety of rare birds as they make their journey from the south back up to the north.
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