The best walks and hikes in Delaware

Yes, Delaware is quite dog-friendly. Most state parks, including popular spots like Brandywine Creek State Park and White Clay Creek State Park, welcome leashed dogs on their trails. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go, as some areas like swimming beaches or nature preserves may have restrictions.

For a family-friendly outing, the Prickly Pear Trail — Delaware Seashore State Park Fresh Pond is an excellent choice. It's a flat, easy walk with great coastal views. Another great option is the Glasgow Park loop — Newark, which offers a paved, accessible path perfect for strollers and little legs.

Delaware's landscape is predominantly flat, especially in the south, so dramatic waterfalls are not a common feature. However, you can find beautiful water scenery along the creeks in northern Delaware. The trails in Brandywine Creek State Park and White Clay Creek State Park follow picturesque, flowing waterways that offer a serene hiking experience.

Delaware is a great place for beginner hikers. The state has over 70 easy-rated trails, many of which are relatively flat and well-maintained. Southern Delaware's coastal plain offers gentle walks, while northern Delaware provides a chance to experience some rolling hills without being overly strenuous. A good starting point is the Battery Park Trail — New Castle, which is flat and scenic.

The scenery is quite distinct. Northern Delaware, part of the Appalachian Piedmont, features rolling green hills, deciduous forests, and historic stone walls, which you can experience on the Ramsey Farm loop. In contrast, Southern Delaware is defined by its flat coastal plain, offering hikes through sandy dunes, salt marshes, and unique cypress swamps, like those found near the Swamp Forest Trail.

Yes, two significant long-distance trails cross through Delaware. The state is part of the American Discovery Trail, a coast-to-coast route, with its eastern terminus at Cape Henlopen State Park. Additionally, a section of the East Coast Greenway, which will eventually connect Maine to Florida, runs through northern Delaware.

Delaware's diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. In northern parks like Brandywine Creek, you might see white-tailed deer, foxes, and numerous songbirds. Coastal areas and wildlife refuges such as Bombay Hook are prime spots for bird-watching, with opportunities to see migratory shorebirds, bald eagles, and herons. In southern swamps, you might spot turtles, frogs, and other wetland creatures.

Many of the most popular trails in Delaware's state parks are designed as loops, making logistics easy for hikers. For example, the Chestnut Hill Trail loop and the Forest loop — Redden State Forest both bring you back to your starting point without any backtracking.

While some local parks and trails are free, most of the premier hiking destinations are within Delaware State Parks, which typically require an entrance fee for vehicles. This fee helps maintain the trails and facilities. It's a good idea to carry some cash or check the specific park's website for current fees and payment options before you visit.

Hikers in Delaware have several highly-regarded state parks to choose from.

In the north, Brandywine Creek State Park is a local favorite, known for its rolling hills and 19th-century stone walls. Nearby, White Clay Creek State Park offers an extensive network of over 37 miles of trails for all abilities.

In the south, Cape Henlopen State Park is a top-rated destination where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic, featuring beach and dune hikes. It's a peaceful preserve with a historic observation tower.

The trails in Delaware are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful coastal scenery in the south, and the serene woodlands of the northern parks. The variety, from flat coastal walks to rolling piedmont hills, is frequently mentioned as a key highlight.

While Delaware is not known for mountains, you can find some challenging terrain in the northern part of the state. Trails in Brandywine Creek State Park and White Clay Creek State Park feature some of the steepest climbs in Delaware, with rolling hills that provide a good workout. The Tulip Tree Trail and Brandywine Trail loop is a moderate route with over 280 feet (85 m) of elevation gain.