Wye Island is located in Queentown Maryland right after crossing the Bay Bridge. Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area consists of 2,450 acres of land that was used for tobacco and other farming for over 300 years. At one time in its history, the land was owned by William Paca, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. The land was purchased by the state of Maryland in order to preserve it from residential development. It is maintained by the many groups due to its location between the East/West Wye rivers and among the tidal recesses of the Chesapeake Bay.
Wye Island is a nice hiking spot with chances to see wildlife including marine birds and the endangered Delmarva Fox Squirrel. The Ferry landing trail leads to a secluded beach area with a picnic table and views of local fisherman and boaters along the river. The trail leads adjacent to farmland used by the state of Maryland. Eventually you will come to the Holly Tree trail, which is named after the 300 year old Holly Tree about 500 feet from the road. This is the largest Holly Tree I have ever seen, so make sure to check it out on the way to further trails.
