According to the Groundhog Day superstition, we’re in for an early spring this year. With temperatures in the 60s forecasted throughout the end of February, it’s time to get back outdoors! Seasonal hikers are ready to hit these top-rated hikes and soak up the sunshine.
If you’re ready to melt away the winter blues and welcome the spring season, here are 10 top-rated hiking trails to check out in Delaware, according to AllTrails.
10. Snow Goose, Possum Hollow and Double Horseshoe Trail
Middle Run Valley Park
This 5.1-mile loop takes hikers through the Middle Run Valley area with great forest views, therapeutic sounds from a rippling creek and some twists, turns and minor inclines. Hike through forests and open meadows on a well-maintained trail. This trail is considered moderate, so make sure you wear the right shoes and bring along some water.
9. Bob Trail Full Loop
Trap Pond State ParkÂ
At number nine on the AllTrails list, this Trap Pond trail is an easy route along the side of the pond and surrounding area. The scenery at Trap Pond never disappoints and, whether you’re hiking or biking it, this trail is stunning. Trap Pond State Park provides a lively ecosystem with plenty of wildlife to see and, with a mostly gravel trail, this hike is accessible for any skill level.
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8. Snow Goose Loop
Middle Run Valley Park
For a shorter trail in the Middle Run Valley Park, try the Snow Goose Loop trail. With some well-maintained, flat and even paved areas, there are some easy breaks between the narrow and rocky sections. Hikers warn that the trail markings are confusing at some intersections, but downloading the trail map can ensure you won’t lose your way.
7. Killens Pond Loop Trail
Killens Pond State Park
This easy 3.2-mile loop is the perfect quick hike to kick off spring in Delaware. It typically only takes about an hour to hike it, and the pond and woods views are charming any time of the year. The trail is well-maintained and stays pretty flat, so whether you’re going for a run or an easy stroll, Killens Pond provides the perfect backdrop for an active afternoon.
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6. Junction and Breakwater Trail
Cape Henlopen State Park
It should come as no surprise to locals that this trail made the list of top-rated hikes in Delaware. While the Junction and Breakwater Trail is most popular for biking, many AllTrails users report an equally pleasant experience walking it. There are plenty of stunning views along different portions of the trail, and it’s well-maintained for an easy walk or morning run. The trail winds through hardwood and pine forests, open fields, coastal marshes and residential areas, which means there’s a delightful variety of scenery.
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5. Chestnut Hill Trail
White Clay Creek State Park
This 3.5-mile loop is just a short drive from Newark and ideal for students seeking a natural retreat from the bustling college town. Surrounded by trees and a rippling creek, it’s hard to believe this trail is so close to Newark and Wilmington. If you hike it in the morning, expect to see other morning hikers as well as mountain bikers and folks walking with their furry friends. This is a popular trail for those living in the surrounding residential areas, and the views speak for themselves.
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4. Prickly Pear Trail
Delaware Seashore State Park
Nestled between Dewey Beach and the quiet resorts of Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island is Delaware Seashore State Park. This coastal natural area is ideal for hikers who want to soak in views of Delaware’s wetlands. You may pass some explorers on horseback or mountain bikes, but you can also expect solitude at certain times of day. This is a flat trail with an easy path to follow, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or dog walk.
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3. Lenape Loop South, Middle Run Natural Area
Middle Run Valley ParkÂ
Coming in at number three is Lenape Loop South, a 4.6-mile loop trail with some mildly rugged sections. Popular for both hiking and mountain biking, this trail provides idyllic nature views and a nice workout.
2. Swamp Forest Trail
Lums Pond State Park
Lums Pond is centrally located between burgeoning residential areas in Northern Delaware like Bear, Middletown and Brookside. This 6.9-mile loop takes hikers around the circumference of the pond. AllTrails users remind hikers to heed the warning in the name—the Swamp Forest Trail can certainly get muddy at times, so dress accordingly and wear the right shoes.
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1. Gordons Pond Trail
Cape Henlopen State Park
It’s no surprise that the stunning views of Cape Henlopen continue to sweep hikers off their feet. The top-rated hike with over 1,500 AllTrails reviews is the beloved Gordons Pond Trail at Cape Henlopen State Park. This 6.4-mile trail features a flat path with views of the pond and the ocean at Cape Henlopen. There’s plenty of sight-seeing whether you’re hiking, biking or walking your dog. Check out the historic Fort Miles from WWII, take a detour to walk along the beach and keep an eye out for all the local wildlife.
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