The Mathews Outdoor Club (MOC) has a big goal: we want to push the Mathews’ waterways project to the next level. We want the Mathews Blueways Trail to stand out in the state of Virginia as one of the most well-established waterway trails for paddling and sustainable outdoor recreation.
As we are all wrapped up with our 2026 events season, we’ve turned much of our attention toward meaningful community enrichment projects that will leave a lasting impact on Mathews County.
At the heart of this work is the Mathews Blueways Trail. This initiative is designed to strengthen our county’s connection to its waterways, encourage outdoor recreation, and promote Mathews as a premier destination for paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts.
We’re proud to share that the trail has made significant progress, with exciting developments on the horizon.
A MILESTONE WORTH CELEBRATING
The Mathews Blueways Trail has officially been accepted into the prestigious Chesapeake Gateways Network! This is a tremendous milestone for Mathews County.
This exciting recognition connects our trail to a broader network of nationally significant Chesapeake Bay destinations and reinforces Mathews County’s position as a destination for outdoor recreation and water-based tourism.
The trail also overlaps with a portion of the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail, further highlighting the historical and recreational significance of our waterways.
OUR PROJECT: MATHEWS BLUEWAYS TRAIL 2.0
Trail enhancements began in 2025 with the development and installation of informational kiosks at 17 public landing points throughout the county. This phase was completed in 2026, establishing an important foundation for visitors to navigate, explore, and enjoy our waterways.
These kiosks provide valuable information about the trail while connecting paddlers to nearby businesses, points of interest, and local amenities.
With this foundational work complete, MOC is looking ahead to the next phase of enhancements in 2027: covered tables and waterside benches at these 17 public landings. These additions will create welcoming spaces for paddlers to rest, take shelter, and enjoy the natural beauty of Mathews County.
LEAVE YOUR LEGACY ON THE BLUEWAYS TRAIL
Help us bring the next phase of the Mathews Blueways Trail to life!
MOC is inviting individuals, families, businesses, and community supporters to sponsor a covered table or waterside bench. Each sponsored structure will feature a personalized commemorative nameplate, an opportunity to celebrate your generosity, honor someone special, or share a meaningful dedication.
Covered Table Sponsorship | $5,000
Covered tables offer paddlers a place to rest, gather, and take refuge during inclement weather. Your sponsorship will help create a lasting amenity for visitors exploring our waterways.
Waterside Bench Sponsorship | $1,000
Waterside benches provide a welcoming place for paddlers to take a break and for visitors to sit, relax, and appreciate the shoreline’s natural beauty.
A Personalized Nameplate | Included with Your Donation
Every sponsored table or bench includes a commemorative nameplate at no additional cost. Dedicate your sponsorship in your name, in honor of a loved one, or with a special message or meaningful quote.
BECOME A TRAIL DESTINATION PARTNER FOR FREE
The Blueways Trail is more than a waterway, it’s an opportunity to connect visitors with the businesses and destinations that make up our local culture.
MOC has established a Mathews Blueways Trail Destination designation for qualifying local businesses and points of interest located on or near the trail. Overnight accommodations, restaurants, and other points of interest with water access or shuttle service are invited to participate. There is no cost to join!
Participating businesses will receive a Mathews Blueways sign to display at their establishment and will be featured on the webpage for their nearest trail landing, as well as on that landing’s informational kiosk.
It’s a simple, no-cost way to increase visibility, connect with paddlers, and become part of Mathews County’s growing outdoor tourism network.
Interested in joining? Complete the application here:
https://forms.gle/sStJ6ecmHcCWSwDM7
HELP US KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING
The Mathews Blueways Trail is an investment in our community: supporting outdoor recreation, strengthening local tourism, and creating new opportunities for our businesses and visitors.
With your support, we can continue transforming our public landings into welcoming destinations along Mathews County’s beautiful waterways.
Donate today and be part of the next chapter of the Mathews Blueways Trail.
Thank you for supporting Mathews Outdoor Club and our mission to power outdoor activities and promote sports tourism in Mathews County, Virginia.
