The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail is a collection of sites impacted by the War of 1812. These local, historic sites tell the story of the Chesapeake Campaign, culminating in the writing of our National Anthem. In addition to their historic significance, many of the sites along the trail are fantastic pla
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursThe Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail is not a clearly marked hiking trail. Instead it is a route that passes through communities, urban areas, and public lands. The route travels across a variety of land owne
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 410.962.4290 · Star-Spangled-Trail_info@nps.gov
The Trail's headquarters is at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. The park is three miles southeast of the Baltimore Inner Harbor and just off I-95. Follow the brown Fort McHenry directional signs along all major routes to the park. From I-95 northbound, take Exit 55 Key Highway and
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Depends What are the hours?
The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail is not a clearly marked hiking trail. Instead it is a route that passes through communities, urban areas, and public lands. The route travels across a variety of land owne
Nearby sites
Tim Ervin National Park Service Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
ConfirmedYour pass covers the $15 park entrance fee.
NPS Photo National Park Service Hampton National Historic Site
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
