Department of Conservation and Recreation
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Department of Conservation and Recreation
Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 24, 2006
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A joint release from the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Virginia Tourism Corporation
Maps available for Capt. John Smith's Trail
James River trail follows explorer's footstep
(RICHMOND, Va.) – The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation(DCR)and Virginia Tourism Corporation(VTC) today unveiled travel maps for Capt.John Smith’s Trail, a boat and auto tour along the James River. Developedto complement Jamestown 2007 – America’s 400th Anniversary, theroute includes 40 parks, historic sites and museums between Richmond andNewport News.
The trail is divided into three loops — dubbed Oxbow, Cypress andOyster — each of which can be toured in a day by boaters and motorists alike.In addition to a compelling narrative that tells the story of John Smithand the Jamestown settlement, the maps provide travelers with informationon the amenities available at each site and the location of boating rampsand piers.
“Capt. John Smith’s Trail is a great way for boaters and motoriststo discover the beauty of Virginia that inspired John Smith,” saidDCR Director Joseph Maroon. “Along the way they will see verdant marshesand towering forests, and they will learn about the native Algonquians whofirst canoed the James River. This is also the first segment of what we hopewill become a national water trail.”
Maps of the trail are available at sites along the route and from VirginiaWelcome Centers and regional visitor centers. Individuals can also ordermaps from the trail’s interactive website, www.JohnSmithTrail.org.
“Whether you explore the trail from a car or a kayak, you’lldiscover unspoiled river views, eagles, heron, osprey and a variety of otherwildlife,” said VTC President Alisa Bailey. You can also experience a diversity of interpretiveexperiences from the archaeology at Historic Jamestowne and the recreatedships at Jamestown Settlement, to 17th century plantations and a varietyof related museums.”
In addition to the map, the www.johnsmithtrail.org website provides linksto attractions, restaurants, tours, lodging, and other visitor amenitiesalong the trail to help you plan your visit.
”The trail is the perfect backdrop for a vacation getaway and eachseason offers a new perspective. You’ll discover hidden treasures tuckedaway throughout the trail including state park lodging, unique Bed and Breakfasts,restaurants and small town mainstreets,” Bailey said.
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