Tucked in Maryland’s most northeast corner, Cecil County boasts 240 miles of shoreline, numerous parks and trails, several quaint towns, and approximately 100,000 residents. Boaters interested in the county’s waterways may cruise to the Susquehanna, North East, and Sassafras Rivers, as well as the C&D Canal. Whether you’re arriving by boat or land yacht, here are eight points of interest to explore in Cecil County, MD.
Drive through Foxcatcher Covered Bridge
Located in the Fairhill Natural Resource Management Area (FNRMA), the historic red covered Foxcatcher Bridge spans 80 feet across the Big Elk Creek. It sits on land that was previously used for horseback riding and fox chasing when it was part of the DuPont family estate. FNRMA also has opportunities for fishing and hunting and 80 miles of nature trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Visit the C&D Canal Museum
The C&D Museum, which is located in Chesapeake City along the waterfront, is owned and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The historic site is inside the original 18th century pump house that once controlled the water levels in the locks. While in Chesapeake City, take a stroll through the Victorian historic district of South Chesapeake City and enjoy waterfront dining and shopping.
C&D Canal Trail or Boat Tour
Try a stretch of the 17-mile hiking and biking trail along the northern banks of the canal, which leads to Delaware City, DE. Marvel as huge vessels from ports around the world navigate the relatively narrow waterway. A ferry open to the public connects Chesapeake City’s north and south sides. Bicyclists are welcome.
Mount Harmon Plantation
Situated on a peninsula formed by the creeks and inlets of the Sassafras River, Mount Harmon is a restored 18th century manor house. Tours, educational trips, special events, and other programs are offered to large and small groups. The grounds offer plenty of space for picnicking and bird watching, and each summer this is the site of the Lotus Blossom Art & Nature Festival, which showcases the American Lotus Water Lily blooms on the Sassafrass River.
Upper Bay Museum
Located in the town of North East, the Upper Bay Museum houses artifacts related to the area’s boating, fishing, and hunting heritage. Here you will find on display a remarkable boat engine collection, old commercial fishing nets, and model boats. If you go, you may also want to take advantage of license-free fishing at North East Community Park.
Elk Neck State Park
Elk Neck State Park sits on a peninsula formed by the Chesapeake Bay on the west and the Elk River on the east. With sandy beaches and white clay cliffs, the park, which opened in the 1940s, offers visitors camping, swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. Visitors may celebrate Earth Day April 23 with an “Eagle Watch” beginning at 9 a.m.
Turkey Point Lighthouse
Turkey Point Lighthouse sits on a 100-foot bluff overlooking the Elk and North East Rivers. It is easily accessed by a trail in the Elk Neck State Park, and those willing to make the short hike will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the Bay. Built in 1833 the light was designed to help guide ships into the new C&D Canal.
Wineries
Taste what local vineyards have to offer: Chateau Bu-De Winery, Winery at Elk Manor, and Dove Valley Vineyard. In July the Cecil County Food and Wine Festival will feature many Maryland wines, delicious food, live music, demonstrations, and crafts along the shores of the beautiful North East River. Learn more at seececil.org.