Hiking the Maryland Ice Cream Trail
- Laura Scharle
- Jun 6
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 9
This is a sponsored post in partnership with the Maryland DNR Office of Outdoor Recreation.
There’s now a sweeter way to explore trails on Maryland’s Eastern Shore - lace up your boots and start hiking the Maryland Ice Cream Trail. No, it’s not an actual trail paved with sprinkles or even a rocky road (see what we did there?😉). The Maryland Ice Cream Trail ties together 14 dairy farms from the mountains to the beach that produce their own farm-fresh, Maryland-made ice cream.
And lucky for our readers and followers, all along the ice cream trail there are nearby trails to explore–you know, in the literal sense–making those ice cream calories guilt-free.
The Maryland Department of Agriculture and Maryland Office of Outdoor Recreation have teamed up to encourage people to visit as many farms and trails along the ice cream trail as possible. As you visit each farm and hike location, you’ll find a QR code to scan. You’ll need to download the Let’s Rallie app to scan the code and track your visits so you’re eligible to win some awesome prizes!
Of the 14 ice cream trail locations across the state, you’ll find three of them here on the Delmarva peninsula, and each one of them can be paired with a scenic trail - or several!
Starting out on the lower shore, Chesapeake Bay Farms is scooping the freshest ice cream at their two locations in Pocomoke City and Berlin. Their Pocomoke location is perfectly nestled in the picturesque farmland of Worcester County. Upon entering their shop, you’ll be engulfed in the sweet aroma of fresh waffle cones. Ice cream flavors rotate throughout the season, so be sure to consider all your options before ordering. The shop also features fresh milk, cheese, meats and local canned goods.
Once you’ve got your cone in hand, head out the back door to enjoy views of the herd and surrounding pastures. You may even be greeted by some of the other friendly farm friends like goats, horses, or guinea hens. If you’re interested in getting a tour of the facility and seeing an ice cream-making demonstration, be sure to visit during the Maryland’s Coast Agriculture Week, typically held the first week of August.
The Pocomoke location of Chesapeake Bay Farms is just a 15-minute drive from some of the best hiking and water trails on the lower shore.
The closest trails to the farm begin at Milburn Landing, which is part of Pocomoke River State Park. From there, you can bike an 8-mile loop, walk the 0.5-mile Bald Cypress Trail, or hike the 3-mile Milburn Landing loop. If you want credit for hiking or biking and want to be eligible for ice cream trail prizes, you’ll want to scan the QR code that’s posted in the park.
For more trails nearby, the Nature Conservancy has several in the area (but no QR code to scan). Just a 13-minute drive from the farm you’ll find the Nassawango Creek Preserve “Joe” trail, as well as a kayak launch that provides access to the Nassawango Creek Water Trail. When visiting either the land or water trail - the trailhead and kayak launch are across the street from each other - keep your eyes and ears open. Beavers, prothonotary warblers, barred owls, deer, and several species of turtles can be spotted in the area.
Chesapeake Bay Farms has a second location in Berlin. In addition to ice cream, this spot frequently has fresh, local seafood for sale, as well as adorable baby calves outside. Before or after your visit to the Berlin shop, there are several trails nearby that are definitely worth exploring.
The official ice cream trail hike is at Assateague State Park’s Rackliffe Trail. This trail is a hidden gem that most Assateague visitors miss on their way to the island. The trailhead is located just behind the visitor center on the mainland and begins with a stunning “tree tunnel” framed by numerous bayberry and wax myrtle trees. The trail also passes by the historic Rackliffe House and a beautiful loblolly pine forest. Don’t forget to scan the official ice cream trail QR code to get credit for your hike!
And if you make the 20-minute drive from Chesapeake Bay Farms to the Rackliffe Trail, you might as well stop by the Ilia Fehrer Nature Preserve on the way. This property is managed by the Maryland Coastal Bays Program. So far, there is a 1-mile trail to explore, but more trails will be constructed soon.
If you’re up for more outdoor adventure near Berlin, take half the day to explore the newly established Bay Club property, managed by the Maryland Forest Service. Previously a golf course, this land was recently acquired by the state and is slowly being converted into a recreational trail system that will have 12 miles of trails to explore. Be sure to bring the bug spray and prepare for a little bush-whacking! Although the property is open for exploration, the forest service is still working to rehabilitate the land from golf course to trail system. Please note that there are no QR codes to scan at the Ilia Fehrer or Bay Club trails.
Once you’ve sufficiently experienced Chesapeake Bay Farms and the surrounding trails, it’s time to continue exploring the ice cream trail up the shore to Lockbriar Farms, located just a stone’s throw from Chestertown. There’s way more to experience here than just their ice cream barn. From U-pick strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and pumpkins, to the occasional petting zoo, this farm offers fun for the whole family throughout the season.
Lockbriar Farms is within a 15-minute drive of several trails, a great kayak launch, and a stunningly scenic beach!
Located just 15 minutes north of the farm, you’ll find the official ice cream trail hike (scan that QR code for credit!) and ample hiking opportunities at the Sassafras Natural Resources Management Area. With over four miles of trails to explore and several spots with views of the river, this tract of land is sure to keep you busy all day. But if four miles isn’t enough, you can also explore Turner’s Creek Park, just up the road for a few more hiking options.
Speaking of Turner’s Creek, paddlers will be thrilled to launch at the boat ramp to explore part of the Sassafras River Water Trail. A highlight of paddling the Sassafras River is the chance to see the famous lotus blooming. These giant blossoms usually reach peak bloom in late July. Be sure to follow the Sassafras Riverkeeper for updates on blooming conditions.
If you’re after a trail that’s paved, then you’ll definitely want to head to the Wayne Gilchrest Rail Trail in Chestertown. This 2-mile trail system is ADA-accessible and it’s also perfect for bikes, strollers, or roller skating!
Once you’ve sufficiently hiked, paddled, walked, or biked and also filled your belly with a delicious Lockbriar Farms scoop, you may just need to relax and catch some rays! The best place around to relax is definitely Betterton Beach. This spot has an expansive sandy beach, picnic areas, restrooms, and even lifeguards during peak season.
If exploring the ice cream trail on the eastern shore just isn’t enough for you, be sure to continue your journey across the state! A full list of farms and nearby hikes can be found here.
Please note that many of the stops along the ice cream trail are small, family-owned operations. Their hours can sometimes change on a dime, so it’s worth calling ahead before you make the trek–just to be sure they’ll be ready to scoop!
