If you like to bike and you like birds, it’s hard to beat a
ride through Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge on Maryland’s Eastern
Shore. But fair warning: The 25-mile loop may take longer than you
think—because you’ll stop often to admire bald eagles roosting in the
trees, herons wading in the water, and turtles moseying along the side of
the road.
The 27,000-acre refuge is best known as a stop on the Atlantic
Flyway each October and November, when as many as 50,000 Canada geese,
ducks, and swans migrate through. It’s no less spectacular in the spring.
The refuge offers a short four-mile trail. Cyclists who are more
ambitious can turn the four miles into a 20- or 25-mile loop. We recommend
the 25-miler, which offers beautiful scenery at the beginning and end—the
refuge is visible along half the ride. The middle portion is on quiet
country roads outside the park; there’s not much to see, but consider this
your chance to pick up some speed and get a workout.
Visitors to the
refuge are advised to bring bug spray, but bikers in motion seem rarely
bothered by the horseflies. A pair of binoculars is a good idea, too.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Cambridge;
410-228-2677.
