Biking in Delaware

Enjoy a bike ride on one of Delaware’s scenic bike trails while taking in beautiful views and spotting local wildlife. Try one of the trails below in order from northernmost to southernmost. Happy riding! 

Delaware Greenways : Advocating for land conservation and trails, Delaware Greenways has created and supports numerous scenic byways to be explored. For more, click here! 

• Northern Delaware Greenway Trail – Connecting Bellevue State Park, Brandywine Park and the City of Wilmington through a series of trails, this 10.4-mile trail will immerse you in nature, with views of the Delaware River and rock formations, and in a bit of history with close proximity to Bellevue Hall, Rockwood Mansion and Nemours Mansion and Gardens. 

• Jack A. Markell Trail – Beginning at the beautiful Riverfront in Wilmington, this 7.9-mile trail will take you past the DuPont Environmental Center. Then, you will ride a boardwalk through the marshland of the Russell Peterson Wildlife Refuge where you’re likely to see shorebirds. Along the way, you can stop at signposts showing a map of the route along with information about the area and wildlife you may see. Upon your return, cool down with a stroll along the Riverfront, and consider grabbing a bite to eat or an ice cream cone. 

• Michael N. Castle C & D Canal Trail – Mostly flat and paved, this trail starts under Summit Bridge and can be enjoyed for nearly 9-miles along the C&D Canal. You’ll pass nautical boats, and you may spot some interesting birds and animals as you ride along a wildlife preserve. This out-and-back route ends in Delaware City. Plan for approximately an hour and a half round trip ride. 

• Georgetown-Lewes Trail – This 17-mile, paved bike trail connects the towns of Lewes and Georgetown. Start in Lewes by parking at the trailhead right next to the Lewes Public Library. This may be a lengthy ride but it’s low stress with a flat paved route crossing under busy Route 1. Consider ending this expedition with a walk in charming downtown Lewes or a stroll along the beach. 

Delaware State Parks : With 17 different state parks, Delaware is home to numerous bike trails that weave through forests, open spaces and coastal shores. For more information, click here! 

• Lums Pond State Park – The 6.2-mile Swamp Forest Trail is a great option for more adventurous bikers as the path is mostly unpaved and winds through the trees with a great view of the pond. This route is more suited for mountain bikes rather than road bikes. Catch your breath at any of the picnic tables or piers you’ll pass during the ride. 

• Killens Pond State Park – Stretch your legs on this quick 2.3-mile trail starting on Killens Pond Road and circling the northern portion of the park. The trail is very flat with partly paved and partly crushed rock, making it enjoyable for all fitness levels.  If you want a little more out of your exercise session, take in the views of the 2.6-mile pondside trail. 

• Cape Henlopen State Park – With various trails, and some off the beaten path, Cape Henlopen State Park is a gem. Many choose to bike Gordons Pond Trail. Travel between Lewes and Rehoboth Beach through salt marshes for a little over 5 miles. Between the various forms of wildlife and natural landscapes, this trail is a popular choice. 

• Seashore Bike Route – Beginning and ending at two of Delaware’s beachside state parks, begin your journey at Fenwick Island State Park and turn around at Delaware Seashore State Park – a distance of 11.4 miles. This route is mostly along a narrow portion of Route 1. Depending on the direction you’re headed, you will either be right along the ocean or bay. Enjoy the sea breeze you’ll feel during the ride and keep an eye out for turtles and seabirds that have homes along the route. Please note you will need to pay an entrance fee at whichever location you park your car. 

Additional Routes : And that’s not all! For more unique biking paths and routes, see the list below. 

• Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway – You can choose to park at the Delaware Museum of Natural History before embarking on your journey. This trail runs north for 12.25 miles along Routes 52 and 100, from downtown Wilmington to the Pennsylvania border. Pass attractions such as the Delaware Art Museum, the Du Pont Mansions and the Inn at Montchanin Village and Spa (which is a great place to stop for lunch at Krazy Kat’s!). 

• Scenic DE-9 Bike Route – Begin your ride at Battery Park in New Castle. Admire the view of the Delaware River, before beginning the 10-mile ride which ends in Delaware City, where you can stop for a bite to eat, take some rest beside the water and see the Civil War island fortress of Fort Delaware State Park in the distance. Upon your return to New Castle, consider taking a walk around the charming colonial town with its cobblestone streets. You can expect the route to take approximately 50 minutes each way. 

• Woodland Bike Route – Park at Woodland Beach Wildlife Area, a 6,000-acre plot of tidal marsh, woods and fields. Before your ride, take some time to look around and catch a glimpse of local wildlife that call the area home. Pedal down the path and onto the road for the 8.3-mile trek to Big Oak County Park in Smyrna. Expect this route to take around 40 minutes each way. 

• Amish Country Bike Route – Starting in historic downtown Dover, this 14.8-mile loop will take you through Central Delaware’s countryside on flat, paved roads. You’ll see peaceful farms and animals but be sure to check the map ahead of time as you will need to make several turns to stay on course. The loop should take about an hour to complete, and The Green and Legislative Hall both make great picnic spots for a post-workout snack. 

Places to Rent : Can’t bring your bike to Delaware? No problem. Try renting from one of these businesses! 

• Lewes Cycle Sports or Seagreen Bicycle – As great options in Lewes, these businesses are close to the Georgetown to Lewes Bike Trail and Cape Henlopen State Park. With everything you need including helmets, child trailers and infant seats, you can bring the kiddos along on your ride. 

• Rehoboth Cycle Sports – As a locally-owned and female run business, Rehoboth Cycle Sports offer cruisers, hybrids, E-bikes, kids’ bikes, child seats, trailers and more to fit your needs.  

• Atlantic Cycles – In downtown Rehoboth Beach, you’ll find rental options for the whole family. Want to really ride together? Try a tandem bike or one of their Surrey bikes with two bench seats and four sets of pedals! 

• Fenwick Islander Bicycle Shop – Perfect for rentals for the Seashore Bike Route or for riding around town during your vacation, check out Fenwick Islander’s wide variety of bikes available for rent.