![[Wye Island NRMA Trail Guide]](/publiclands/art/abouthead.gif)
Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area (NRMA) is located in Queen Anne's County between the Wye and Wye East Rivers in the tidal recesses of the Chesapeake Bay. The island consists of 2,450 acres of land managed for recreation, agriculture and natural resource protection. Over 12 miles of trails provide a variety of recreational opportunities and a chance to discover an old growth forest and a magnificent holly tree, more than 250 years old. Many visitors have discovered that the best way to view Wye Island is from the water. Paddling the 30 miles of shoreline can provide endless opportunities for wildlife viewing.
The Island's History For over 300 years, Wye Island was privately owned and managed for agricultural use, such as tobacco and wheat farming. Two noteworthy owners were William Paca, Governor of Maryland (1782-1784) and a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and farmer and judge Charles Beale Bordley, brother-in-law of William Paca. Under Bordley's ownership, the island prospered with vineyards, orchards, textile production, a brickyard and a brewery. The State purchased the island in 1976 to ensure its preservation. Wye Island's agricultural heritage continues under management by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Crops such as wheat, corn and soybeans are harvested on leased fields throughout the property. Wildlife The island's tidal wetlands and 30 miles of shoreline provide a diverse habitat for an abundance of wildlife. Beginning in late August, Wye Island serves as a migratory stopover and winter resting area for many waterfowl species. A Canada Goose Management Area is located on the island to provide sanctuary for waterfowl to feed and rest undisturbed. Other species nest on the island, such as warblers, bluebirds and vireos, and are seen in the spring and early summer months. In its coves and along shorelines, mallards, black ducks and wood ducks can often be spotted. Also inhabiting the island are white-tailed deer and the endangered Delmarva Fox Squirrel. Considerably larger than the gray squirrel, the Delmarva Fox Squirrel once ranged from Southeastern Pennsylvania throughout the Delmarva Peninsula. Due to the loss of suitable habitat, the squirrel's population only remains in four counties of its historic range, all of which are on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Wye Island is an important habitat conservation area for preserving remaining poulations of this endangered squirrel. Habitat Restoration Natural resource restoration plays a major role in the management of Wye Island. Along the island's 30 miles of shoreline are ongoing projects designed to use recognized natural resource practices to reduce soil loss from tidal and storm erosion. These shoreline stabilization projects are led by volunteer groups and supported by local partnerships. Under the direction of the Wye Island staff, volunteers plant native grasses, trees and shrubs along the shoreline. Riparian buffers under the federally funded Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) are maintained and established with trees and native warm season grasses for wildlife food and habitat. Trails Please Play Safe! Wye Island's multi-access trails are unpaved, generally level and easy paths. These trails can become very wet and slippery after rain and may have obstacles blocking them such as roots, ruts and branches. Unless otherwise posted, trails are open to hikers, cyclists and equestrians. Remember, you are responsible for having the necessary skills, knowledge and equipment for a safe and environmentally sensitive visit.
The Wye River Paddlers on the Wye River can view the magnificent sites of Wye Island from the water. Three soft landing sites on the island offer opportunities for visitors to stop and explore the land trails. Paddlers need to be aware of weather and wind conditions, as well as boat traffic. Staying close to the shoreline helps to avoid hazardous conditions and allows easy access to protected coves. Information regarding launch sites and permit fees on the Wye and Wye East Rivers can be obtained by contacting: Queen Anne's County Department of Parks and Recreation, 410-758-0835 (www.qac.org) or Talbot County Parks and Recreation Department, 410-770-8050 (www.talbgov.org) Paddlers are also encouraged to visit the water trail at Pickering Creek Audubon Center in Talbot County. Call 410-822-4903 for details. The American Canoe Association advocates for paddler safety, clean water, the preservation of natural resources and paddler access to our waterways. For information on paddling trip preparation and safety tips visit www.acanet.org or call 703-451-0141. Pets without a leash are permitted in all areas of the forest but must be under control at all times. Hunting Managed bow hunts by permit only are held each year from mid-October to late November to help maintain the ecological balance between the white-tail deer and their habitat. There is limited Canada Goose and raccoon hunting also by permit. For more information on hunting, contact the land manager to visit DNR's Wildlife and Heritage Division on the web at: www.dnr.state.md.us/huntersguide A check-in station located near the entrance to Wye Island provides self-registration for hunters. Hunting locations are available on a map provided by the land manager. Camping, Picnic and Lodge Accommodations Wye Island has a rustic lodge, called the Duck House, which is situated on a wooded knoll with a scenic view of Granary Creek. The lodge and adjacent picnic pavilion are available for rental by reservation only, and can be made 10 months in advance by contacting the Wye Island Office at 410-827-7577. Camping on Wye Island is restricted to education and youth groups. Family camping is available at Tuckahoe State Park and Martinak State Park located in Queen Anne's and Caroline counties. Both parks contain loops with electric hook-up and camper cabins. Pets on a leash are permitted. To make pavilion and camping reservations spring through fall at Maryland State Parks, call Park Reservations year-round at 1-888-432-2267. Or, make your reservations on the Internet: reservations.dnr.state.md.us Guides and Outfitters To obtain information about guides and outfitters in your area, contact the NRMA office at 410-827-7577. For self-guided hiking and paddling itineraries on Wye Island, visit DNR's Nature Tourism website at: www.dnr.state.md.us/outdooradventures Leave No Trace While you are enjoying Wye Island, please help us protect its natural and historic resources by following these Leave No Trace ethics. 
Directions From the Bay Bridge/Western Shore of Maryland: Travel 12.5 miles eastbound on U.S. Route 50. Turn right onto Carmichael Road. Travel 5.1 miles and cross the Wye Island Bridge. Once on the island, follow signs to the NRMA office or parking areas. From Route 50 Westbound: Travel westbound on U.s. Route 50 to the Maryland Route 213 traffic light. Continue west on Route 50 for three miles and look for sign (Wye Island NRMA) and turn left onto Carmichael Road. Travel 5.1 miles and cross the Wye Island Bridge. Once on the island, follow signs to the NRMA office or parking areas.
Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area
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