http://www.baygateways.net Experiencing the Living, Natural Bay - The Chesapeake Bay is home to a variety of areas where you can explore the formation of the Bay, its wildlife, its diverse habitats and its striking scenery. Experience the innate beauty of the Chesapeake against the backdrop of early fall by visiting these Gateways. en-us Copyright 2005 Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network http://backend.userland.com/rss Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:30:00 EST More than 15 million years ago this region of Calvert County was covered by a warm, shallow sea. When the sea receded, the cliffs at Calvert Cliffs State Park were exposed and began eroding. Today, these cliffs reveal the remains of prehistoric species, including sharks, whales, rays and seabirds that were the size of small airplanes. http://www.baygateways.net/general.cfm?id=123 mland@chesapeakebay.net Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:30:00 EST The Choptank River is the longest of the rivers on the Chesapeake Bay's Maryland Eastern Shore. The Choptank and Tuckahoe Rivers Water Trail encompasses 80 miles along the two rivers, and can be traveled by canoe, kayak, or small powerboat. Paddling or boating along the Choptank and its primary tributary is a wonderful way to explore the unique character of this classic Chesapeake landscape, and experience the rich heritage of this area. http://www.baygateways.net/general.cfm?id=15 mland@chesapeakebay.net Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:30:00 EST The largest area of natural wetlands and forest available for the public in the Baltimore area, the shores of Dundee and Saltpeter Creeks encompass over three thousand acres. The incredible diversity of life in the Chesapeake Bay can be discovered here through exhibits, lectures, family nature walks and guided canoe trips. http://www.baygateways.net/general.cfm?id=142 mland@chesapeakebay.net Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:30:00 EST Nearly 3000 acres of Chesapeake Bay marsh, beach, and highland can be discovered at Janes Island State Park in Crisfield, Maryland. Bordered on the west by the Tangier Sound, and dissected by many small waterways, visitors are sure to spot waterfowl and other birds, as well as fish and shellfish populations in the park and surrounding areas. http://www.baygateways.net/general.cfm?id=7 mland@chesapeakebay.net Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:30:00 EST Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, is a perfect getaway for bird watching, hiking, biking, and fishing. In addition to the 100 geese that stay at Merkle year round, you also are likely to see red fox, groundhogs, white-tailed deer, ospreys, hummingbirds, purple martins, herons and a variety of songbirds on your visit. http://www.baygateways.net/general.cfm?id=116 mland@chesapeakebay.net Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:30:00 EST