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Itinerary:

A Silver Mine at Foxhole Landing

Located in a town named for the silver that was once mined there, Foxhole Landing iis its own kind of treasure to paddlers looking for a calm and quiet place tucked away in a small eastern shore town.This landing is located in the upper reaches of the Sassafras River, near the small Kent County town of Galena. Galena dates back to 1763, but at that point it was known as Downs’ Crossroads. In 1813, a mining operation set up in the town when a small amount of a type of silver known as galena was discovered there. The name of the town changed to reflect this moment in history.

Foxhole Landing is a put-in site as serene as the town of which it is a part. Because of its location near the head of the river, paddlers should try to use this site only at high tide. However, this stretch of river offers a wealth of scenery for those who wish to access it. Look out for great blue heron fishing along the shorelines, as well as kingfishers that nest in the nearby bluffs lining the river.  Cattails and wild rice add some interest to the shoreline, and in the fall tickseed sunflowers bring some gold to this town of silver.

Image Credit: Chris Cerino

Quick Look

Skill Level: Advanced, Advanced Beginner, Advanced Intermediate, Beginner, Intermediate

Length: 5.5 miles (3-4 hours)

Cost: free for car top carriers; Kent County ramp permit required for vehicles with trailers

Launch Point: Fox Hole Landing - 39.374144, -75.829288

Take-Out Point: Fox Hole Landing - 39.374144, -75.829288

Type of Vessel: Kayak

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Things to Know

This landing is located just about two miles from the head of the Sassafras. Thus paddling upriver will result in the waterway eventually thinning to just below the town of Sassafras. Downriver, paddlers can enjoy smaller creeks to explore on both sides of the river on the way to Georgetown, which is approximately three miles from the landing.

Navigational Hazards

Check tide charts before launching at this location, as it is easy to get stuck at the peak of low tide.

Water Safety

Remember: safe use of rivers and any designated trails, at any time, is your responsibility! Water trail maps are for informational and interpretive purposes only and are not meant for navigational purposes, nor do they take into account level of skills or ability required to navigate rivers. The National Park Service, Chesapeake Conservancy and/or the individual trail associations assume no responsibility or liability for any injury or loss resulting directly or indirectly from the use of water trails, maps or other printed or web-based materials. Learn more about water safety.

Marine Forecast

We STRONGLY suggested that you review the marine forecast ahead of heading out for a paddling trip. To review the forecast for this paddle trip, visit:

Emergency Information

Launch site address: End of Fox Hole Road, Galena, MD 21635
Nearest hospitals: UM Shore Medical Center at Chestertown (100 Brown St, Chestertown, MD 21620; 410-778-3300) and Chester River Hospital Center (6602 Church Hill Rd #300, Chestertown, MD 21620; 410-778-3300).

Parking & Shuttles

There is some limited side of the road gravel parking at this site. There is parking for less than 10 vehicles. 

Restrooms

There is no public restroom at this site. 

Equipment

  • ALWAYS wear a properly secured personal flotation device (PFD) when participating in paddlesport activities. Make sure that your PFD has a readily accessible safety whistle.
  • Bring a paddle float and water pump for self rescue.
  • A spray skirt is recommended for cold/foul weather.
  • Wear appropriate protective clothing that shields you from the sun (sunglasses, sunblock, hat, and a long-sleeved shirt that can get wet) and is safe to swim in. Water shoes with closed toes will protect you from abrasive hazards at launch areas that can cut your feet.
  • Bring water in bottles than can be secured to your craft. Bring more water than you think you’ll need and drink regularly throughout your journey.

Outfitters

Camping & Amenities

This site has a sand/dirt surface from which to launch small vessels by hand. 

There are no camping amenities at this site. 

Trail History

The town of Galena was founded in 1763 as Downs' Cross Roads. It had been named for local tavern owner William Downs. From there it became known as Georgetown Cross Roads, an identity that was more linked to the neighboring community of Georgetown than to the town itself. Eventually, Galena earned its current name from the alleged discovery of silver deposits of the same name. Whether or not silver exists in the area is debated, but the name has stuck since.