The trail traces four major events and related sites that figured prominently in the Chesapeake Campaign of the War of 1812 that have national significance, physical integrity, and the potential for contemporary recreation and/or interpretation.

The Battle for the Patuxent highlights the Battles for Saint Leonard’s Creek and the start of the 1814 Chesapeake Campaign.

The British Campaign for Washington covers the land and water routes used by the British and Americans to attack and defend the capital in 1814.

The Battle for Baltimore and Birth of the Anthem traces the British land advance on the city, the Battle of North Point, defenses at Hampstead Hill, Bombardment of Fort McHenry and Key’s inspiration to write "The Star-Spangled Banner."

Raids, Feints and Diversions explores the numerous British raids on small towns, tobacco ports and skirmishes with American militia during the Chesapeake campaign.

Saving the Declaration of Independence from the invading British, a runaway slave’s escape to Fort McHenry, the resolve of Maryland militia at the Battle of North Point, and Francis Scott Key’s penning the words to "The Star-Spangled Banner" are some of the many stories you will also encounter along the Trail.