Ring in the New Year with a family-friendly First Day Hike in one of Delaware's beautiful State Parks!
Explore the stunning scenery of Sussex County and the Slower Lower region with a rejuvenating hike on January 1st. Join fellow nature enthusiasts and park rangers for a variety of self-guided and guided hikes suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Here's what to expect:
- Scenic Hikes: Enjoy breathtaking views along Delaware's picturesque beaches, through lush forests, and across tranquil marshes.
- Family Fun: Create lasting memories with your loved ones while exploring the wonders of the outdoors.
- Passport to Adventure: Participate in the Delaware State Parks Passport Program and complete exciting challenges like guided hikes, lantern tours, and volunteer opportunities.
Don't miss out:
- Register: Check in at the Welcome Station at each park to register for your hike and receive a First Day Hike magnet or sticker (while supplies last).
- Dress for the weather: Bring a water bottle, wear appropriate footwear, and don't forget sun protection.
Start the New Year right with a healthy dose of nature and create a tradition your whole family will cherish.
Cape Henlopen State Park 9am-10:30am
Self-Guided Hike
This 2-mile hike is recommended for children 5 and older and is not handicap accessible.
No Pets are permitted on this section of the trials.
Guided Hike 9am-10:45am
Check in at the Point Comfort Station parking area. This 2-mile hike is recommended for children 5 and older and is not handicap accessible.
No Pets are permitted on this section of the trials.
Pre-registration is required.
Holts Landing : Sea Hawk Trail 10am-11:15am
Meet at the pavilion to start on this 1.3-mile trail winds that through a diverse landscape, showcasing lush hardwood forests, vibrant meadows, serene salt marshes, and unique freshwater bog habitats.
Trap Pond State Park 9:45am-noon * 10 am send-off GUIDED hike 12:30pm-1:30pm
Check in at the Welcome Station located at the Baldcypress Nature Center.
The American Holly Trail is an easy 1.1-mile trail consisting of gravel pathways good for strollers. The trail offers several educational stops and The Nature Center is fully handicap accessible. Pets are allowed as long as they’re on a maximum leash of 6 feet. No registration is required.
Killen Pond State Park 1pm-2pm
Check in at the Welcome Station located at the Sports Complex parking lot.
The Bike Trail is an easy 1.5-mile trail that is handicap accessible and stroller friendly. The Cross-Country Trail is a moderate 1.5-mile trail that is not handicap accessible. Pets are allowed on both trials as long as they are on a maximum leash of 6 feet. No registration is required.
Fort Miles Historical Area: History of the Pinelands -located in Cape Henlopen State Park- 10am-11am
Check in at the Fort Miles Trailhead.
Artillery Park is an easy .25-mile hike that is pet-friendly for four-legged friends on a maximum 6-foot leash and handicap accessible. You can jump onto the Pinelands Trail which is 1.5-miles long, not handicap accessible and not recommended for pets.
Fort Miles Historical Area: The Guns of Fort Miles -located in Cape Henlopen State Park- 11:45am-12:30pm
Check-in at the Orientation Building.
Discover the history of Fort Miles on this guided hike. Learn about its WWII-era weapons while enjoying stunning views from an Overlook.
Please note that some trails, while not designated handicap accessible, are all-terrain stroller friendly. Our family has done The Walking Dunes Trail, Salt Marsh Spur, and Gordons Pond Trail (to name a few) with our steel frame, all-terrain wheels, strollers.
WANT MORE FIRST STATE FAMILY FUN?
- New Castle County ā¶ļøMacaroni Wilmington- New Castle Macaroni KID makes it EASY to find your family fun around New Castle County. Subscribe to the weekly newsletter here. Follow @mackidnewcastlede on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
- Kent County ā¶ļø Macaroni KID Dover - Milford - Smyrna makes it EASY to find your family fun around Kent County. Subscribe to the weekly newsletter. Follow @mackiddoverde on Facebook and Instagram.
- Sussex County ā¶ļøMacaroni KID Sussex Delaware makes it EASY to find your family fun around Sussex County. Subscribe to the weekly newsletter here. Follow @mackidsussexde on Facebook and Instagram.
