Creating walking trails with signage on existing sidewalks or paths is an easy way for towns to encourage resident health as well as economic development when these walking trails lead walkers by stores for a little window shopping. In 2012 Eastern Shore Healthy Communities offered mini-grants to towns for walking trail signage to encourage physical activity. Seven towns submitted proposals.

Eastern Shore Healthy Communities is a partnership of organizations working together to do something no organization can do by themselves: create a healthier Eastern Shore. We know health comes long before you ever need to see a doctor or visit a hospital, so we create policies, systems, and environments that encourage healthful eating, improved physical activity and create tobacco free environments.

Maps

This guide to Eight Easy Walks on the Eastern Shore was created by the Walkability Work Group of ESHC in 2016. To date, walkers’ guides have been prepared for eight localities: Cape Charles, Eastville, Melfa, Nassawadox, Onancock, Onley, Parksley, and Wachapreague.

Please forward comments, suggestions, and corrections to Patti Kiger.

Why Walk?

Walking is a natural way to get from one place to another, yet today’s lifestyle has us riding in cars or sitting in front of computers. So get up, take a walk, and improve your health. Walking lowers risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and some cancers. It may help you lose weight and will add years to your life. Also, when you walk you’re more likely to see your neighbors, breathe fresh air, or learn about nature, history or your neighborhood. So walk your dog, grab a friend, or take your family on a walk. You’ll look and feel so much better.

No Limits Eastern Shore (NLES) partnered with Eastern Shore Healthy Communities (ESHC) to evaluate and promote walking trails on the Eastern Shore.

NLES’ Guidelines for Accessibility Evaluation

NLES’ Walking Trail Assessment Form (While the NLES Walking Trails Assessment Form was designed specifically to grade accessibility of ESVA trails, the outcomes should prove useful to individuals of all abilities throughout our community.)