The best road cycling routes around Elsmere

The JAM Trail (Jack A. Markell Trail) – Mike Castle Trail loop from Wilmington offers a unique road cycling experience, blending urban waterfronts with serene wildlife refuges and historic towns. You'll glide over boardwalks through wetlands in the Russell Peterson Wildlife Refuge, where bald eagles might soar overhead, then follow the active Chesapeake & Delaware Canal, watching commercial ships pass by. This route provides a diverse journey through Delaware's landscapes.

This moderate 61.6-mile (99.1 km) road cycling loop, with 834 feet (254 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 3 hours and 57 minutes. While largely flat and paved, expect a few brief but steep climbs around Summit North Marina and potential wind exposure on the canal sections. Starting from Wilmington, you'll find parking options near the Riverfront, and trailheads along the Michael N. Castle Trail offer amenities like restrooms.

This combined loop is a significant part of the East Coast Greenway, connecting Wilmington's Riverfront to historic New Castle and the bustling C&D Canal. It's a fantastic way to experience Delaware's natural beauty and maritime history, offering a blend of quiet marshlands and active shipping lanes. The route is particularly notable for its long boardwalk sections and the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife.

This moderate 32.0-mile (51.5 km) road cycling loop, the Ashland Nature Center – Ashland Covered Bridge loop from Wilmington, takes you through the scenic Red Clay Valley, offering a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical charm. You will pedal past woodlands, meadows, and marshes, with the serene Red Clay Creek often in view. The route's highlight is the iconic Ashland Covered Bridge, a picturesque and historic landmark that feels like a step back in time.

Expect to complete this ride in about 2 hours and 27 minutes, with a total elevation gain of 1389 feet (423 metres). The surfaces are generally well-paved, making it suitable for most road bikes, though the varied terrain means you will encounter some satisfying climbs. Parking is typically available near the Ashland Nature Center, and the fall season is particularly recommended for its stunning foliage along the Red Clay Creek.

The Ashland Covered Bridge, built around 1860, is Delaware's oldest original covered bridge and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its unique Town lattice truss design makes it a captivating sight. The route also passes the Ashland Nature Center, headquarters for the Delaware Nature Society, which encompasses 130 acres of diverse ecosystems, perfect for wildlife observation.

This moderate 28.9-mile (46.5 km) road cycling route, taking about 2 hours and 29 minutes, offers 1575 feet (480 metres) of elevation gain as you explore the scenic Brandywine Park. You'll cycle past the historic Josephine Fountain, especially charming when cherry trees blossom in spring, and enjoy views of the Brandywine River. The terrain features rolling hills, characteristic of the Brandywine Valley, providing a mix of gentle grades and more noticeable ascents and descents.

To plan your visit, know that Brandywine Park is easily accessible and forms part of the larger Northern Delaware Greenway system. While specific parking for an "Anglesey" start isn't detailed, you can generally find access points within the park. Cyclists can comfortably piece together an enjoyable route using the accessible sections of the Brandywine Trail and park roads, making it a peaceful escape within an urban environment.

Brandywine Park stands out as one of northern Delaware's most picturesque destinations, blending natural beauty with historical significance. The park's trails, including those suitable for biking, are built on land that was once a Quaker farming community, with old farm roads now integrated into the system. This area is often described as a "hilly gem on the Piedmont plateau," offering more varied terrain than typically found in Delaware.

The Delaware Art Museum loop from Wilmington offers a delightful road cycling experience, transitioning from urban settings to the charming, rolling landscapes of the Brandywine Valley. You'll pedal through picturesque woodlands and past historic estates, enjoying the gentle ups and downs of the terrain. The route provides a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion, making it a rewarding ride for those who enjoy combining exercise with exploration.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route starts conveniently in Wilmington, a city known for its bicycle-friendly infrastructure. While specific parking for this loop isn't highlighted, ample options exist within the city. This easy 15.6-mile (25.2 km) ride, with 695 feet (212 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 1 hour and 8 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxed outing. Consider a morning ride to make the most of the cultural stops along the way.

This route is a fantastic way to experience the Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway, a "crown jewel" for road bikers in northern Delaware. It allows you to cycle past significant cultural institutions like the Delaware Art Museum, integrating art and history into your outdoor adventure. The area's network of paved pathways and country roads ensures a smooth and scenic journey, perfect for a leisurely exploration of this historic region.