Miles of Hiking Trails

Come join us on one of our guided hikes (listed below) or stop in at the Visitor Center (round building to the left of the parking lot) to pick up a trail map and start your own journey. There is no admission fee to explore the property, but donations are appreciated to help us maintain our trails.

Walk around our ponds, see and hear native wildlife, and take in beautiful views from observation decks and blinds on each trail!

Scheduled Guided Hikes

Join us for a guided hike on CBEC’s 510 acre peninsula for this unique opportunity to discover some of the natural features and treasures found on our property. A docent will lead participants on a journey to explore topics of Hummock Succession, Oyster Reef Ecology, Salt Marsh Plants, Lake Knapp Bird Residents, Tree Identification, Resident Raptors and many other topics. Most hikes will experience walking a 1.5 mile flat path around the center of our 510 acre peninsula. Many hikes will have a rest stop with restroom accessibility. Participants are encouraged to dress for weather and bring along a water bottle, small snack, and binoculars. Duration is approximately 2 hours. Trips are subject to cancellation due to weather or low enrollment. Check-in and hike begin at the Visitor Center.

Cost is FREE to CBEC Members, $5 for Non Members

Check back for pop-up events

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is CBEC?

The Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center is a nonprofit 510-acre 501(c)3 nature center. We are deeply committed to environmental sustainability through providing people with authentic outdoor recreational and educational experiences that contribute to the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

What is CBEC Not?

CBEC is not part of any other Chesapeake Bay organization. It is a unique entity incorporated as Wildfowl Trust of North America Inc., EIN 52-1188939. CBEC is not an advocacy or lobbying group; it is apolitical.

Where is CBEC Located?

600 Discovery Lane, Grasonville, Maryland, just off US 301/US 50.

CBEC is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily except some holidays. The Visitor Center is open mid-April through mid-November, but the property is open year-round.

What is the best time of year to visit CBEC?

  • There is abundant wildlife year-round at CBEC. Birding is excellent throughout the year, from spring migrants to waterfowl on our lakes, ponds and bay waters. Winter migrants start appearing in November and head north in late February-March.

What can I do at CBEC?

  • Hike and walk 6 miles of walking trails; bring a picnic and enjoy our small beach; visit our captive birds of prey; photograph birds, wildlife and native plants and trees; kayak and paddle board in Marshy Creek and the Chesapeake Bay; and participate in education programs for preschoolers, school-age children and adults.

What is not permitted in CBEC?

  • No disturbance of animal or plant life. Molesting, injuring, disturbing or destroying any animal or plant is prohibited. Do not disturb artifacts and historic items. Do not take any bones, plants, rocks or other objects from the property. No fishing in CBEC’s ponds and lakes. No alcohol or drugs are permitted.

Can I bring my dogs to CBEC?

  • Visitors are permitted to bring their dogs on leash. We ask that you purchase a Dog Membership, providing information about your dog’s immunizations, etc.

What animals and flora are at CBEC?

  • CBEC is a birding hotspot.  Eagles, ospreys, owls, herons, egrets, swans and ducks are abundant at varying times of the year. You may spot foxes, racoons, groundhogs, deer, otter and muskrats. Turtles and terrapins can be found along our waters and shorelines. CBEC’s property contains forests, meadows and marshlands, populated with species native to the Eastern Shore.

Is fishing permitted?

  • Fishing is not allowed in any of CBEC’s ponds or lakes, but it is permitted in Chesapeake Bay waters with proper licenses.

Is hunting permitted?

  • Hunting by the public on CBEC property is not allowed. The deer population is actively managed by CBEC and its agents.

Can I have my wedding, baby shower, birthday party or other event at CBEC? 

  • Yes, CBEC rents its facilities to CBEC members.  For more information, visit the Facility Rental page.