A large, new trail system is well underway just outside of Berlin, MD. The property of the former Bay Club golf course was sold to Maryland DNR Forest Service in 2023, with the help of the Lower Shore Land Trust, adding 675 acres to the Chesapeake Forest Lands. This new tract of land currently has 12 miles of trails to explore. In addition, the lands are open for hunting and the freshwater ponds are open for fishing, which is all in alignment with how the forest service manages similar nearby properties like the Pocomoke State Forest.
The property has been quietly open to visitation for many months now, despite ongoing improvements to the site. The asphalt surface of the former golf cart roadways have mostly been removed, a parking area has been constructed, and pollinator habitats are being planned. The golf course ponds will eventually be converted into more natural wetlands and the forest service will work to restore the natural hydrology of the land into a wet forest habitat. The trails are open for multi-use recreation, so hikers, equestrians, cyclists, and hunters should respect and give way to one another. It is advised to wear blaze orange and avoid exploring during deer firearms seasons. For tips on safety during hunting seasons, read this blog post.
While the new tract of land is open for visitation and hiking, there is still work to be done to improve the trails and repair some of the wooden bridges. As of January 2025, the old golf cart trails are pretty grown over with vegetation and since the trails are not marked yet, it can be easy to get lost. If you choose to visit, prepare for a little bush-whacking!
The property shows evidence of a variety of wildlife. Rabbit, fox, and otter tracks have recently been observed in the snow. Hunters report the presence of deer and turkeys. Some of the dried out ponds even have fish carcasses and freshwater clam shells in them, as well as thousands of golf balls!
The Lower Shore Land Trust is currently working to convene a Citizens Advisory Group and coordinate volunteer planting days. There will be an informational meeting on Saturday, February 1st at 1:00pm at the Berlin Library. Representatives from Maryland DNR, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and Lower Shore Land Trust will be there to answer questions and facilitate discussion. If you would like to get involved, please fill out this form. More details, photos, and directions can be found here.