September marks the unofficial beginning of fall, and it’s the perfect time to plan your autumn hikes! With mild Delaware temperatures, changing leaves and cool breezes, it’s the ideal time of year to get active, stimulate the mind and rejuvenate the spirit.
Hiking is not only good for the body and mind; it’s also a great way to spend quality time with loved ones. Whether it’s with family or a partner or pet, walking the trails together makes for high-quality bonding sessions.
Grab your hiking gear and your favorite hiking buddies (two- or four-legged) and hit these Delaware trails and state parks for fall hiking galore.
Alapocas Run State Park
There are several trails in Alapocas Run to enjoy. Alapocas Woods Trail, a nearly two-mile loop, is great for hikers or mountain bikers. You’ll see plenty of fall foliage, rock formations and more. It’s generally considered a moderately difficult trail with some fairly rugged points. This is a great park for a good workout with amazing views.
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White Clay Creek State Park
White Clay Creek is a large wooded area perfect for autumn views in Delaware. Hiking throughout the park is a great way to celebrate the season. The park is filled with long loop trails that are ideal for hikes over an hour or two. The 7.6-mile Whitely Farms Trail is popular not only for hiking, but also for horseback riding, biking and dog-walking. The shorter Chestnut Hill Trail offers similar views on a shorter loop. Particularly known for wildlife, White Clay Creek is also popular for bird-watching and wildlife photographers.
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Brandywine Creek State Park
Brandywine Creek State Park is perfect for those who love autumn leaves on the water. With picturesque changing colors reflected on the water, these trails are peaceful retreats. The Rocky Run Loop is a popular trail, but depending on when you go, you’ll likely encounter peace and quiet and alone time. The Brandywine Creek River Loop is great for water views, following the river for most of the hike. The Eastern Loop is another pleasant trail that offers quiet hiking and typically takes about two hours.
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Cape Henlopen State Park
Gordons Pond Trail at Cape Henlopen is a top hiking trail for lovers of diverse coastal wildlife. It’s a 6.4-mile out-and-back trail that works well for cycling and dog-walking with a mostly flat terrain and views of the pond. Walking Dunes Trail is also great for those who want to spot wildlife while hiking. There’s also ample opportunity to break off from the main trail to go walk along the beach and enjoy the autumn breeze.
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Lums Pond State Park
Lums Pond is another perfect Delaware state park for lovers of hiking in the fall. Wetlands provide a great atmosphere for diverse wildlife and fall views. Just don’t forget to bring the bug spray! The Swamp Forest Trail is a trail around the pond that’s an excellent pick for biking, hiking, dog-walking and taking in the view.
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We’ve highlighted just a few of Delaware’s amazing hiking trails and state parks. Explore more trails near you on AllTrails.
Related: How to Score the Perfect Beach Rental in Delaware This Fall
