The best family-friendly hikes and walks in New Castle County

New Castle County offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features over 80 routes, with more than 50 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain, from gentle paths through dense woodlands and open meadows to scenic waterfront trails along the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal and the Delaware River. While much of the county is relatively flat, some parks like Brandywine Creek State Park offer gentle hills for a bit more variety.

Yes, New Castle County has several excellent loop trails perfect for families. The Brandywine Park Loop is an easy option, offering a pleasant walk. Another great choice is the Delcastle Recreation Area Loop Trail, known for its open meadows. For a slightly longer but still easy experience, consider the Fox Point State Park Loop.

Absolutely! Many parks in New Castle County feature paved paths ideal for strollers and young children. The Northern Delaware Greenway Trail, for example, offers extensive paved sections. Glasgow Park also has a 2.8-mile paved path encircling much of the park, providing great accessibility for families with strollers.

Many trails in New Castle County offer points of interest. Along the Jack A. Markell Trail, you might encounter the JAM Trail (Jack A. Markell Trail) itself, which is a highlight. The Michael Castle Trail features the St. Georges Trailhead and the Mike Castle Trail. You can also find historic bridges like the St. Georges Bridge and the Ashland Covered Bridge near some routes. The Northern Delaware Greenway Trail also passes by the Brandywine Zoo.

Many trails in New Castle County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in most state and county parks. For example, trails in Brandywine Creek State Park and White Clay Creek State Park typically allow leashed dogs.

Spring and fall are particularly beautiful for family hikes in New Castle County. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and comfortable temperatures, while fall offers stunning foliage. Summer can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are best. Winter hikes are also possible, especially on well-maintained paths, offering a different kind of quiet beauty.

Most state and county parks in New Castle County offer dedicated parking areas. For example, Lums Pond State Park, White Clay Creek State Park, and Brandywine Creek State Park all have ample parking. Smaller parks like Carousel Park and Talley Day Park also provide convenient parking for trail access. Some state parks may require an entrance fee or permit.

Yes, New Castle County is rich with water features. The Swamp Forest Trail in Lums Pond State Park winds through wooded areas and wetlands around Delaware's largest pond. The The Rocks at Brandywine Creek route offers lovely views along the Brandywine Creek. You can also find extensive waterfront trails along the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal and the Delaware River, such as those in Battery Park.

The komoot community highly rates the trails in New Castle County, with an average score of 4.56 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the diverse natural scenery including quiet woodlands and open spaces, and the suitability of many routes for families with children. The accessibility and variety of trails are frequently highlighted.

For families seeking a longer adventure without significant difficulty, the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail offers over 29 miles of interconnected, mostly paved trails. While the entire length might be too much for one day, you can easily choose a section to explore. The Redd Park North Loop is another option that provides a good distance while remaining easy.

Many trails in New Castle County provide a lovely blend of environments. The Hermitage Natural Area, for instance, features trails that meander through meadows, forests, and even marshlands, offering diverse scenery and opportunities for birdwatching. White Clay Creek State Park also has well-maintained routes that traverse both meadows and stream-side woodlands.