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Sample Itineraries > Trail Mix Tour
Trail Mix Tour
Chesapeake, VA
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Pack your trail mix to explore Chesapeake, Virginia's great outdoor: canoe or kayak along the historic Great Dismal Swamp Canal or bike its adjacent paved path; go birding at Northwest River Park, part of the Virginia Birding & Wildlife Trail; stay up late for an owl prowl in the Great Dismal Swamp; enjoy an al fresco dinner before watching the sun set over picturesque Lake Drummond; or join a specialty class at Chesapeake Arboretum.
Day 1 - Chesapeake, VA
Arrive in Chesapeake just after lunch and head out for a boat cruise along the Great Dismal Swamp Canal. We'll enjoy an al fresco catered dinner in the campground of the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge before departing for a sunset cruise across the spectacular Lake Drummond, one of only two natural lakes in the Commonwealth. As night falls, a guide will help us navigate through the dark refuge in search of several species of owl on an "owl prowl" before we turn in for the night.
Day 2 - Chesapeake, VA
The early bird gets the worm, so we'll get an early start on an escorted birding tour of Northwest River Park, part of the Virginia Birding & Wildlife Trail's South Chesapeake Loop. We'll try to add the rare Swainson's Warbler or some of the neo-tropical migratory species who frequent the park to our life list. Visit the park's fragrance garden before we break for a light lunch. Enjoy some afternoon free time before we visit "nature's classroom" - the Chesapeake Arboretum. The 48 acre campus, gardens, and trail system hosts us for a wine and cheese reception and a special seasonal gardening course. We'll enjoy a delectable dinner at Sterling's, run by a father and son team, before exploring the night sky during a special program in the Chesapeake Planetarium.
Day 3 - Chesapeake, VA
Enjoy the popular sport of kayaking along the smooth waters of the historic Great Dismal Swamp Canal. Ride solo or tandem with a buddy as we meander toward the Commonwealth's southern border, tempted to return only for a picnic lunch on the shore. If we're still feeling adventurous, we'll explore the new Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, a paved, flat path which takes us into the heart of the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, enjoyable by bike or on foot. Return to the hotel to recharge and freshen up for dinner in TownePlace at Greenbrier, a new lifestyle destination center in the heart of the city. A short stroll will make room for homemade cheesecake amidst shopping for the finest kitchen tools and gadgets at Simply Culinary.