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Known for its scenic beauty and enchanting wildlife, Delaware’s central region offers an impressive variety of hiking and biking trails. These routes showcase the state’s diverse landscapes, from coastal marshes to dense forests. If you’re thinking of heading out for an adventure, you can’t go wrong with the variety of trails here.
Whether you’re looking for a quick nature walk or an all-day adventure, these trails offer exciting opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the First State. Each trail has its unique features and charm, suitable for different fitness levels and interests.
Trails under two miles are ideal for those seeking a brief escape into nature or a family-friendly outing. Shorter biking and hiking trails in Delaware are great for a quick workout and bird watching and can be the perfect way to introduce young children to the joys of hiking. These trails include plenty of scenic views and natural wonders:
This 1.2-mile loop is situated in Big Oak County Park near Smyrna, Delaware. Generally considered an easy route, it’s a terrific path for walking, running and biking. When you take this trail, you’ll pass through a beautifully wooded area on a boardwalk over a marsh. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as songbirds and small mammals, as you go.
The park also offers a playground for kids and sports fields for activities. You’re welcome to bring your pups with you, as long as they’re on a leash. There’s a public restroom, an outdoor fitness area and lovely picnic spots. The park is typically open year-round and can be enjoyed every season, weather permitting. Consider packing a lunch and enjoying a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature after your walk or bike ride.
Many walkers and runners visit Browns Branch County Park to enjoy a 1.3-mile loop through natural beauty. Situated near Harrington, Delaware, this trail includes a wetland boardwalk through trees and views of the Browns Branch creek. This stream has shallow areas of water for little ones to splash in during warmer months.
The park has plenty of space for recreation, including volleyball, soccer, baseball and other sports. You can also play horseshoe at designated pits, watch your kids enjoy the playground and have a picnic on the grass.
The Abbott’s Pond and Johnson Branch is a 1.6-mile out-and-back hiking trail in Delaware near Milford. Tucked within the greenery of the Abbott’s Mill Nature Center, this hiking route is typically open from sunrise to sunset.
You can also visit Abbott’s Mill nearby and do a guided tour of the 200-year-old grist mill as part of your adventure. Abbott’s Mill Pond was created by damming to power the mill and covers approximately 25 acres on the Johnson Branch tributary. In addition to walking, running and hiking, you can kayak, canoe, birdwatch and picnic. Dogs are also welcome as long as they remain on a leash.
Blackbird State Forest covers more than 5,400 acres near Townsend, Delaware. The Bruce C. Ennis Tract Loop is 1.7 miles and open year-round. The area has a variety of trees, including maple, oak, gum, yellow-poplar and hickory trees. In the fall, the forest transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a particularly stunning time to visit. The nearby Tybout Tract trail has a paved section for strollers and mobility devices.
Visitors can participate in many activities, including hiking, running, bicycling, horseback riding and cross-country skiing. There are around 40 miles of trails in the area, so it might be helpful to bring or download a trail map to help you navigate them.
Medium-length trails in Central Delaware provide a more substantial outdoor experience while still being manageable for most skill levels. These routes, ranging from two to four miles, offer enough distance for a good workout and time to appreciate the region’s diverse ecosystems. These trails are perfect for those looking to spend a little extra time exploring Delaware’s natural landscapes.
The Tybout Tract Trail in Blackbird State Forest has three loops — blue, red and yellow. The yellow loop is 2.1 miles through a diverse and picturesque landscape. If you’re bringing a stroller or a mobility device, try the closeby 2,200-foot paved path for better accessibility.
The trail welcomes dogs on leashes and is ideal for birdwatching and nature photography. The yellow loop is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The St. Jones Reserve nature trail is 2.3 miles long and includes a boardwalk section over salt marshes. This out-and-back trail is located on the north shore of the St. Jones River, near the Delaware Bay. It has stunning views and wildlife spotting opportunities. The trail weaves through St. Jones Reserve, a part of the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve. The reserve plays a vital role in protecting and studying Delaware’s coastal ecosystems.
Whether you want to hike, run or ride a bike, St. Jones Reserve is open from dawn to dusk, seven days a week. The salt marsh is the natural habitat for interesting flora and fauna, making it a fun place for a day trip with kids. The trail is well-renowned for birding, and dogs are permitted if they’re kept on a leash. Consider bringing along your binoculars and a field guide to help you identify the various bird species that frequent this area.
The Killens Pond Loop Trail, also called the Pondside Trail, is a 2.7-mile loop through Killens Pond State Park, a stunning destination near Felton, Delaware. Generally considered an easy-to-moderate route, it should take just under an hour to complete. The path meanders through a hardwood forest and past interesting shrubs and streams. The trail is well-maintained and offers a variety of scenic views of the pond and surrounding forest.
Killens Pond State Park is a great spot for photo opportunities and wildlife observation throughout every season. In addition to walking, the park offers activities such as boating, camping, disc golf, fishing, geocaching, canoeing, picnicking, horseshoes, swimming, and nature programs. Renting a kayak or canoe to explore the pond can give you a different perspective and an extra dose of serenity.
This 3.2-mile loop trail is near Milford, Delaware, and should typically take around an hour to complete at an average walking pace. It’s also suitable for trail runners, bikers and dog walkers using leashes. Visitors can enjoy picturesque lake views and diverse plant and tree species. The Tantrough Branch Loop is in Milford Millponds Nature Preserve, and the best time to visit is March through May.
Mispillion Riverwalk is an out-and-back trail near Milford, Delaware. This 3.3-mile route takes about an hour to complete, and it’s best to visit in June through October. The Riverwalk is a great way to experience the charm and history of this vibrant part of Delaware. The trail offers scenic river views and convenient access to public restrooms, restaurants and shops.
Trails over 4 miles in length offer longer journeys through some of the region’s most spectacular natural areas. They provide opportunities for serious exercise, in-depth nature observation and immersive wildlife watching experiences.
The Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge Loop is 8.5 miles long and renowned as one of the best hiking trails in Delaware. The area is also known as a top birdwatching destination. The best times to visit are September through May, and dogs are welcome on a leash. Visitors can observe a wide variety of wildlife through the seasons, including bald eagles, white-tailed deer and northern diamondback terrapins.
This wildlife refuge, located along the coast of Delaware Bay, protects one of the largest remaining stretches of tidal salt marsh in the mid-Atlantic area. The marsh, freshwater sections and land-based habitats are visited by migratory birds and home to other wildlife. Visitors using strollers or mobility devices can enjoy accessible trails and an observation platform at the end of the Dike Trail.
Runners and cyclists are welcome, and there’s also a vehicle route so visitors can drive and enjoy the scenery. The refuge is open daily year-round from half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as the refuge has limited facilities. Check out all of their trail options here!
Now that you know some of the top hiking and biking trails in Central Delaware and the surrounding areas, it’s time to plan your adventure, lace up your boots and pack your backpack.
Careful planning can make your adventure memorable for all the right reasons. When planning your excursion, keep these factors in mind:
As you prepare to head out for the day, double-check to make sure you have these items, especially if you’re taking a more remote path:
While you’re enjoying these natural spaces, tread lightly to keep Delaware beautiful for everyone. Here’s how:
The trails near Central Delaware offer more than just exercise. Spending time in nature can help you disconnect from daily stresses, reconnect with nature and improve your mental and physical well-being. Remember that no matter your fitness level or trail experience, you can find a path that’s beautiful and easy to navigate. There are also plenty of stunning accessible options, giving everyone the chance to experience the benefits of nature.
Central Delaware is the perfect relaxing escape, offering some of the best hiking trails Delaware has to offer and a blend of natural beauty and rich history. Now that you’ve discovered the top hiking and biking trails in our region, it’s time to plan the rest of your unforgettable getaway. There are so many things to do in Central Delaware — you can discover hidden gems and create a fun, personalized itinerary.
Whether you’re looking specifically for hiking trails in Dover, Delaware, or want to research the many biking and hiking trails in Kent County, Delaware, our website has detailed information and resources. Request a free visitors guide to get inspired by insider tips, detailed maps and stunning photography showcasing the best of the area. Also, keep an eye on upcoming events and festivals — there’s always something exciting happening!
