We’re barreling towards turkey, stuffing and tree lighting ceremonies, but before we take on the holiday season, we have a few more weekends of outdoor fun to take advantage of. If you haven’t taken a trip to explore Snow Hill’s outdoor areas lately, it’s definitely time!
Public Landing
Public Landing is a hidden gem in Snow Hill. This area is great for fishing, crabbing, enjoying the small bay beach, launching your boat, having a picnic or just watching the sun rise above the horizon. The area features a small, but very beautiful boardwalk, perfect for sitting and relaxing. On windy days this is also a popular spot for windsurfing. In a few weeks we’ll be covering an in depth piece about the history of Public Landing, so stay tuned!
Sturgis Park
Sturgis Park overlooks Snow Hill’s drawbridge and runs along the Pocomoke River. This park often hosts events, and is a great spot to bring a carry-out lunch from one of Snow Hill’s great restaurants or food trucks. We love that this park is within walking distance of downtown. If you’re interested in catching your own lunch, fishing from the dock is a great option, and no license is required.
Furnace Town’s Paul Leifer Trail
Furnace Town Living Heritage Museum is an outdoor museum, demonstrating life that surrounded the Nassawango Iron Furnace in the mid-1800’s. Also on the premises is the Nature Conservancy’s Paul Leifer Trail. Avid Shorebread readers may remember our article on this trail. You can download an audio tour to play while you’re on the trail, giving you even more rich detail about the area. Although Furnace Town closes in the winter, visitors may still access the Paul Leifer Nature Trail.
Pocomoke River State Park
Just outside of Snow Hill you’ll find Pocomoke River State Park. This park features two areas divided by the Pocomoke River, Shad Landing and Milburn Landing. Rent canoes, enjoy the trails, take a dip in the public pool, enjoy camping or take park in one of their nature programs.
Byrd Park
Whether you’re launching a boat to enjoy a day on the river or taking a walk around the park, Byrd Park is a great choice. The paved trail is great for jogging, and we love the views of the river. The playground and basketball courts make this a great park for the family. The docks here are also the perfect place fish (no license required) and watch the sun set over the river.
Prothonotary Birding Trail
Take a walk through old growth forest to the Nassawango Creek. Parking is very limited at this location, with room to just pull your car off the road for the hike. On our adventure we found a turtle walking along the path.
Bogiron Canoe Trail
Explore the Pocomoke River and Nassawango Creek by kayak or canoe. These gentle waters are perfect for paddling, and much of the trail is completely unspoiled nature. The trail travels between Sturgis Park, Shad Landing and Furnace Town, and is described by ornithologists as one of the best environments for bird life on the Atlantic Coast. Be sure to pick up a brochure for this trail at the Snow Hill Visitor Center.
The Algonquin Cross Country Trail
The Algonquin Cross Country Trail is a 12.5 mile trail open to bikes, horseback riding and hiking. The trail features a number of access points, including one at Milburn Landing. This map will show you all the access points. In February, the Eastern Shore will host it’s only 50K race (that’s 31 miles, for anyone counting) on the Algonquin Trail.
John Walter Smith Park
John Walter Smith Park is all about recreation. They feature fields for baseball, softball,soccer and football as well as courts for volleyball, tennis and basketball. The park has also added a 9 hole disc golf course. A playground provides entertainment for younger siblings attending games at the fields.
Gateway Park
Blink and you’ll miss the pleasant Gateway Park! This park is where you’ll find all sorts of access to the river from downtown. Rent a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard from Pocomoke River Canoe Company. Pocomoke River Canoe Company also rents 14’ power boats and bikes, and is located in the old lumber house, Cordrey Co. In December, Pocomoke River Canoe Company opens its doors to an elaborate model train exhibit. At Gateway Park you’ll also find the meeting location for Pocomoke River Cruises pontoon boat rides. This one hour and forty five minute cruise allows you to relax and take in the nature of the river.
We had no idea Snow Hill had so much to offer! Best of all, aside from the admission to Furnace Town, all these parks are completely free. Fingers crossed for more great weather so we can do more exploring!
