Mathews Blueways Trail
Explore
More than 100 miles of self-guided water trails with multiple launch sites for your non-motorized watercraft. Explore the calm, scenic shorelines of Mathews County Virginia.
The Mathews Blueways Trail Information Center is located at the Mathews Maritime Museum
482 Main Street, Mathews VA 23109
mathewsmaritime. com
The Mathews Blueways Trail is constantly evolving as the network continues to grow; therefore, the map shown here is subject to change. Select a landing location below to see amenities and points of interest near each one.
Join the Mathews Blueways
Promote your business – overnight accommodations, eatery or other point-of-interest – as a designated Mathews Blueways Trail destination at no cost. Complete an application indicating qualifications (water access or shuttle service) and we’ll send you a Mathews Blueways sign to post at your establishment. You’ll also be listed on the webpage of the nearest trail landing and on that locations kiosk.
Safety Tips
- Wear a life jacket while on the water. Paddle with a group or inform someone of your trip plan.
- Check weather reports and tides before launching.
- Know your route. Bring maps or nautical charts.
- Always bring water to avoid dehydration.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen when needed.
- Dress appropriately for weather and water conditions.
Notes of Caution
The waters surrounding Mathews County can be calm and pleasant. Some sections can also be potentially dangerous when wind speeds rise and waves build. Conditions in sheltered areas can easily mislead you as to conditions in the more open waters of the trails. Know your skill level in relation to your boat and the prevailing conditions.
The entire area of the Blueways Trail is tidal, especially in the Winter Harbor section. You can pick up a tide chart at the Visitor Center on Main Street in Mathews.
Upgrade Project
In 2025, the Mathews Outdoor Club launched a project to upgrade the existing Mathews Blueways Trail locations.
Information Kiosks
At all trail locations, MOC will purchase and install information kiosks that will include a trail map, historical data, area attractions, nature information, and important resources.
Covered Tables
Where space is available, a covered table will be added for visitor usage. MOC partners with Master Naturists in the area to identify ideal table spots that will not infringe on existing wildlife habitats. One location near a public boatramp & restaurant will be fitted with a kayak rack.
Promo & Marketing
Part of the Mathews Blueways Trail connects/ overlaps with the National Park Service’s Captain John Smith Chesapeake Natl Historic Trail, along the Piankatank River. MOC will partner local & regional tourism groups to promote wider usage.
Project Timeline
2025 Jan – submit grant applications
2025 Summer – purchase signage, Announcement
2025 Fall – Kiosk build begins
2026 May – Kiosk build complete! Announcement
2026 Summer – install 17 kiosks with signage – in process
2026 Jun – begin construction of covered tables
2027 Feb – purchase & install waterside benches
2027 Mar – marketing campaign (photographer, website, brochures, social media)
Our partners
Mathews Outdoor Club is in close partnerships with area stakeholders for this upgrade project, including:
Mathews County Parks & Recreation Commission
Mathews Co Visitor Information Center
Middle Peninsula Master Naturalists
Mathews Historical Society
Mathews Outdoor Club 