T he Gu i de • 12- 18- 24 FIRST DAY HIKES IN DELAWARE: Kick Off the New Year Outdoors! Delaware State Parks is inviting everyone to start the new year with a refreshing outdoor adventure on January 1st. First Day Hikes has trails all over the state, with options for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek. Check out these awesome parks for your First Day Hike: Sussex County: • Cape Henlopen State Park - Explore the beauty of Cape Henlopen, where you can walk on towering dunes, check out a historic fort that once protected the Delaware Bay, and see all sorts of wildlife, included migrating shorebirds and harbor seals. The park offers trails of varying lengths and difficulty, so you can choose the perfect hike for your fitness level. 2.0 mi., moderate & self guided 1.0 mi. round trip, easy. • Fort Miles - Step back in time at Fort Miles, an old military base that played a crucial role in World War II. Explore the museum filled with artifacts and exhibits, climb the observation tower for panoramic views of the coastline, and learn about the fort’s history through guided tours and interpretive signs. 1.5 mi., moderate. Loose sand. • Trap Pond State Park - Chill out at Trap Pond, a unique cypress swamp teeming with wildlife such as bald eagles, ospreys, and river otters. Paddle around in a canoe or kayak, hike the trails that wind through the swamp, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. 1.1 mi., easy. Kent County: • Killens Pond State Park - Discover the different habitats of Killens Pond, including forests, wetlands, and meadows, which are home to a variety of plants and animals. Hike the trails, go fishing or boating on the pond, and enjoy the park’s natural beauty. 1.5 mi., moderate. Pets on leash. • First State Heritage Park - Learn about Delaware’s rich history at First State Heritage Park, which includes several historical sites in Dover, the state capital. Check out the Old State House, a beautifully preserved colonial building, the John Bell House, a fascinating example of Georgian architecture, and other cool landmarks that tell the story of Delaware’s past. 0.25 mi., easy. New Castle County: • Alapocas Run State Park - Challenge yourself on the rugged trails of Alapocas Run, which wind through forests and along a scenic stream, offering breath taking views and a chance to experience the beauty of nature. 3.0 mi., easy/moderate. •Auburn Valley State Park - Enjoy the scenic views of Auburn Valley, which features rolling hills, forests and meadows, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 3.0 mi., moderate. •Bellevue State Park - Explore the historic grounds of Bellevue, a former estate that now offers hiking trails, gardens, and scenic views of the Brandywine River. 2.3 mi., easy/moderate. •Brandywine Zoo - Visit the Brandyview Zoo, a family-friendly attraction that houses a variety of animals from around the world, including monkeys, tigers, lions, and red pandas. 2.2 mi., moderate. Rugged Pathways. 0.1 mi., easy. • Lums Pond - Hike through the scenic forests and along the picturesque shoreline of Lums Pond in Bear. 2.0 mi., moderate. Pets on leash. • Fort DuPont State Park - Discover the history of Fort DuPont, a former military installation that now offers hiking trails, fishing, and scenic views of the Delaware River. 1.25 mi., easy. Parking lot at the end of Old Battery Lane and Wilmington Ave. • Fox Point State Park - Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Fox Point, a small park located on the Delaware River that offers stunning views of the water and opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and birdwatching. 2.5 mi., easy. Paved. • White Clay Creek State Park - Explore the diverse habitats of White Clay Creek, including forests, wetlands, and meadows, which are home to a variety of plants and animals. The park offers a variety of trails for hikers. 2.1 mi., group hike, easy. Check out the DE State Parks website, .destateparks.com/firstday for more info and plan your First Day Hike!
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