The best road cycling routes around Delaware

Delaware offers diverse terrain for road cycling. You'll find generally flat routes, especially along the coast and through farmlands in Central Delaware. Northern Delaware features gently rolling hills, providing a bit more challenge. Routes often traverse coastal areas with dunes and beaches, extensive marshes and wetlands, and woodlands, offering varied scenic backdrops.

Yes, Delaware has several excellent family-friendly options. The Lake Wasigan – Lime Kiln loop from Kalarama is a moderate route that can be enjoyed by families. Additionally, the Michael N. Castle C&D Canal Trail and the Junction & Breakwater Trail are known for being mostly flat and paved, making them suitable for riders of all ages. Many state parks also offer accessible trails.

Absolutely. Delaware's coastline is a highlight for scenic cycling. The Gordons Pond Trail and Junction & Breakwater Trail near Rehoboth Beach offer stunning views of the coast and saltwater lagoons. The Scenic DE-9 Bike Route provides views of the Delaware River, while the Delaware Bayshore Byway meanders through tidal marshes, showcasing significant wildlife habitats.

Yes, several routes incorporate historical and cultural points of interest. The Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway in Northern Delaware passes attractions like the Delaware Art Museum, Du Pont Mansions, and the Hagley Museum and Library. The Scenic DE-9 Bike Route ends near Fort Delaware State Park and the charming colonial town of New Castle. The Amish Country Bike Route also offers a glimpse into rural history with views of farms and potential sightings of horse-drawn buggies.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Delaware are designed as loops. For example, the Lake Wasigan – Lime Kiln loop from Kalarama and the Jenny Jump State Forest loop from Hope Township are popular loop options. The Amish Country Bike Route is also a 14.8-mile loop through the countryside.

For longer and more challenging rides, consider routes with greater elevation gain. The View of the Paulins Kill River loop from Kalarama is a difficult 48.4-mile route with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain. The North Delaware Drive – Apple Pie Bakery loop from Belvidere also offers a substantial distance and elevation. Additionally, the Delaware Bicycle Route 1 spans the entire length of the state, providing options for extended rides.

Spring and fall are generally considered the best times for road cycling in Delaware, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, especially in coastal areas, but early mornings or late afternoons are still enjoyable. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can vary, with colder temperatures and potential for ice or snow.

Some routes, particularly those closer to urban centers, offer better public transport access. The Jack A. Markell Trail starts at the Wilmington Riverfront, which is generally accessible. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local DART First State bus routes or regional rail connections to see if they align with trailheads. Parking is often available at state parks and trail access points.

Parking is typically available at state parks and designated trailheads across Delaware. For example, Cape Henlopen State Park, Lums Pond State Park, and the Wilmington Riverfront (for the Jack A. Markell Trail) offer parking facilities. Always check specific route information or state park websites for details on parking availability and any associated fees or permits.

Yes, many routes pass through or near towns and communities where you can find amenities. The Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway, for instance, runs through areas with cultural attractions that may have cafes. The charming colonial town of New Castle, accessible via the Scenic DE-9 Bike Route, offers places to stop. Coastal towns like Lewes and Rehoboth, connected by trails like the Junction & Breakwater Trail, also provide numerous dining and refreshment options.

Delaware's marshlands and wetlands are excellent for wildlife viewing. The Jack A. Markell Trail, with its elevated boardwalk through the Russell Peterson Wildlife Refuge, offers opportunities to spot shorebirds and other marsh inhabitants. The Michael N. Castle C&D Canal Trail also runs through a wildlife preserve, making it a good spot for bird and animal watching. Coastal routes like Gordons Pond Trail are known as 'migration superhighways' for waterfowl.

Delaware's road cycling routes generally feature relatively gentle elevation profiles, especially in the central and southern parts of the state. Coastal routes are often flat. However, Northern Delaware, particularly in New Castle County, offers more rolling hills. For example, the View of the Paulins Kill River loop from Kalarama has over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, while routes like the Lake Wasigan – Lime Kiln loop from Kalarama have moderate climbs around 1,300 feet.

Over 16 road cyclists have explored Delaware's varied terrain using komoot, indicating a growing interest in the region. Cyclists often praise the state's extensive trail system, the diverse natural beauty ranging from coastal views to woodlands, and the generally well-maintained paths. The variety of routes, from flat, scenic rides to those with moderate elevation changes, is also frequently highlighted.