Delaware: Home To One Of The Best Bike Trails On The East Coast!

Delaware was the very first state (of the original 13) to ratify the Constitution of the United States of America. And though it's a tiny state-the second smallest in our nation-you'll still find plenty of biking trails to make this a great biking destination. This small wonder is filled with rolling hills and fun challenges for bikers of all levels.

Biking as a family with bikers of various experience levels? Head down toward Glasgow to the 10-mile loop called Lums Pond. Everyone will enjoy the rolling hills and pleasant ride and you can take a side trip onto an unpaved route near the creek for added adventure. Don't plan to ride after a heavy rain, though, because the trails get muddy and slippery. Pack the insect spray and be alert for hikers and horses and riders-then plan to have fun!

The Woodlawn Trustees area near Wilmington is a plot of land that is privately owned. The residents have created 10 miles of trails right next to Brandywine State Park. There isn't a lot of technical stuff, but it makes for a beautiful ride with all the trees and fields. Then if you want to keep on going, you can continue your ride into the state park.

Brandywine Creek State Park has quite a number of trails to choose from. First of all, you should definitely check with the park office and get a good map, because not all trails are open to bikes. The last thing you want is a fine and possibly getting your bike confiscated! There are some long uphill climbs, rocky sections, logs, and one long, rocky descent. Beware of riding after a heavy rain. The trail can get very slick and muddy. Many of the wider paths are covered in wood chips which can make for some interesting riding as well.

Another trail constructed by local residents is the Middle Run Park in Newark. There are no hills in this one, but this means you can really fly through this trail at high speeds if you're looking for adventure. And just because it's flat doesn't mean there aren't other challenges to make it fun and interesting. This series of looping trails has some technical routes that include creek crossings, fallen logs, tree roots, and rocks. Check to see if there is a fee to ride here, as there may be a charge in the summer months.

Also in Newark, you'll find one of the best technical trails for advanced riders anywhere along the entire East coast of our nation. Not far from the university, White Clay Creek features a 10-mile network of complex trails with steep drops and skinnies, rapid downhill descents, teeter-totter bridges, and fallen logs. These exciting trails are always being updated and maintained, and they're worth a special trip to Delaware!

What Delaware lacks in mountains, it makes up for in forests, rivers, and parks. Don't forget to enjoy the gorgeous scenery while you ride! Happy Trails!