Red Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildlife

This park has something for everyone. There is a playground and picnic areas near the trailhead, and hiking, swimming, fishing, and the opportunity to look for fossils, and sharks teeth exist closer to the water's edge.

Calvert Cliffs State Park has a $5.00 per vehicle user fee. There is no visitor center, but you can buy T-shirts, patches, etc. at the check-in booth. The restrooms at the parking area are clean and well equipped and there are several port-a-potties near the beach. All Maryland State Parks are trash-free, so pack out everything you bring in.

For more details visit the park's website.

This well-marked trail begins at the southern end of the visitor parking lot. There are red blazes are on marker posts every 1/10 of a mile, and all trail intersections are clearly marked. The route begins by moving through a deciduous forest with oaks, maples, etc. A small brook quickly joins the trail, and several bridges keep your feet dry as it meanders along.

After about a mile, the brook joins Gray's Creek which broadens into a half-mile long beaver pond. Sections of boardwalk along the pond keep your feet dry and there are several observation areas with benches for those who like to pause and take in nature. In late-November we saw a beaver lodge, geese, and ducks. As you near the beach, the trail passes right next to a beaver dam. Once you get to the beach area you'll find several picnic tables and a wonderful view of the cliffs and the Chesapeake Bay.