Top 10 Trails in Delaware: Small State, Big Adventures
Delaware may be small, but its trails pack in history, beauty, and outdoor fun. From scenic canal paths and wooded rail-trails to beachside boardwalks and wildlife sanctuaries, these top 10 trails offer something for every type of adventurer. Whether you’re a biker, hiker, or birdwatcher, you’ll find your next favorite spot here.
1. Michael Castle Trail (New Castle County)
This 12-mile paved greenway runs along the C&D Canal, offering water views, spring wildflowers, and wildlife sightings. It connects with Lums Pond State Park and continues into Maryland as the Ben Cardin Trail. Look out for cargo ships and historic bridges.
2. Northern Delaware Greenway Trail (New Castle County)
Delaware’s longest trail at 10 miles. Starting at Bellevue State Park, it winds through Alapocas Run State Park and historic estates like Rockwood Mansion. Bonus: It links to the East Coast Greenway.
3. Cape Henlopen Bike Loop & Junction & Breakwater Trail (Sussex County)
Beloved by beachgoers and even President Biden, this 3.3-mile loop inside Cape Henlopen State Park connects to the 8-mile Junction & Breakwater Trail. It links Lewes and Rehoboth Beach, offering dunes, ocean views, and forested paths.
4. Jack A. Markell Trail (New Castle County)
This 5.5-mile rail-trail offers views of the Christina River and includes a 2,300-foot boardwalk over the Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge. Features include bike repair stations, interpretive signs, and connections to the Wilmington Riverwalk and East Coast Greenway.|
5. Bob Trail (Sussex County)
A 4.6-mile gravel path winding through Trap Pond State Park. Expect hardwood forests, cypress swamps, and birds galore. It passes the park’s campground and connects to the American Holly Trail.
6. Gordon’s Pond Trail (Sussex County)
Part of Cape Henlopen State Park, this 3.2-mile trail circles a 900-acre saltwater lagoon. It’s perfect for wildlife watchers, offering views of ospreys, red foxes, and migrating waterfowl.
7. James F. Hall Trail & Pomeroy and Newark Rail Trail (New Castle County)
These two trails combine for 6 miles connecting downtown Newark and White Clay Creek State Park. It mixes urban paths with wooded serenity, with options to add the PennDel Trail.
8. Capital City Trail & Isaac Branch Greenway (Kent County)
Early segments of the 14-mile St. Jones River Greenway, these trails explore historic Dover, pass through small forests, and connect neighborhoods to the Dover Air Force Base.
9. New Castle Battery Park Trail (New Castle County)
A short riverside path offering views of the Delaware River. It runs through historic Battery Park, once armed with cannons, now perfect for peaceful strolls and spotting sailboats.
10. Georgetown-Lewes Trail (Sussex County)
This growing rail-trail currently stretches 8 miles and is set to reach 17 miles. It passes through residential, marsh, and retail areas, connecting Lewes with the county seat of Georgetown.
Explore Delaware One Step at a Time
With their unique character, these trails prove that Delaware may be small in size, but it’s big on adventure. Pack your water bottle, grab your bike or walking shoes, and discover the natural beauty tucked in every corner of the First State.
