Cape Henlopen State Park Loop

Cape Henlopen is a true gem of a park, located in Southern Delaware. The park is situated at the point where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, creating a unique combination of natural wonders and cultural history. The bay and ocean ecosystems allow for a wide array of wildlife, and during WWII, the park became a military base named Fort Miles. Today, Cape Henlopen draws millions of beach visitors each year as well as those looking to discover the park’s rich history.

Take the Bike Loop Trail to experience the park’s many highlights. Begin the loop at the Seaside Nature Center. The multi-use trail is paved and suitable for biking or hiking. Parking is available in front of the nature center, and free bike rentals are available from the Bike Barn. There's a ~3.5 mile detour to head out The Point, which is mentioned below.

Enter the loop in front of the nature center from either direction (I recommend turning left as you leave the center). Notable highlights along the 3-mile bike trail with option to extend an additional ~3.5 miles include (in order from turning left):

• Parade Field: the large expanse of grass in front of the nature center. Look out for deer around dusk

• The Point: the point where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. Take a 3.5 mile detour from the main bike loop to look over the cape that separates the 2 bodies of water. The view is worth the detour!

• Main Beach Bathhouse: stop at the bathhouse for a snack, restroom break, and a swim in the ocean!

• Fort Miles: the WWII fort. Look at the new artillery park, explore the old bunkers, or take a guided tour of the battery

• Observation Tower: this tower was used during WWII to spot enemy ships on the water. Today, you can climb to the top of the tower for spectacular 360 views of the entire park

• Fishing Pier: bring your fishing poles or just walk along this 0.25-mile pier that extends into the bay. Explore the calmer waters of the Delaware Bay and look for shore birds, horseshoe crabs, and the East End Breakwater Lighthouse. Bring a picnic lunch to eat under the Fishing Pier pavilion

Look out for prickly pear cacti, white-tailed deer, eastern fence lizards, Fowler’s toads, osprey, and more as you make your way through the beautiful park! Check out the parks' website for more info.