Northern Delaware Greenway Trail

Yes, the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail is generally dog-friendly. Hikers and trail runners are welcome to bring their leashed dogs along the path. Please remember to clean up after your pet to keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

Parking is available at several points along the trail, as it connects multiple parks. Major access points with parking include Bellevue State Park, Alapocas Run State Park, and Brandywine Park. It's advisable to check specific park entrances for the most convenient parking for your chosen section of the trail.

The trail is considered intermediate in difficulty. While it is a multi-use path, sections can be hilly and curvy. There are also potentially slick wooden boardwalks and tree litter to be mindful of, especially after rain. However, its varied terrain means there are also easier, flatter sections suitable for a more relaxed experience.

The Northern Delaware Greenway Trail is recognized as the longest off-road trail in Delaware. While its exact total length can vary depending on how connections are counted, it spans a significant portion of northern New Castle County, offering extensive mileage for walking, running, and cycling.

Absolutely! The trail passes by numerous historical and natural landmarks. You can see the Colonial Revival-style Cauffiel House with panoramic views of the Delaware River, the Gothic Revival-style Rockwood Mansion, and the historic Mount Pleasant Meeting House. It also offers views of historical mills and connects to attractions like the Brandywine Zoo and the Jasper Crane Rose Garden.

Given its urban and park connections, there are various amenities available. The trail links to schools, corporate business centers, and museums, which often have nearby cafes or dining options. Additionally, the trail itself provides many public bathrooms and water points along its route, particularly within the connected state parks.

While sections of the trail are wide and paved, making them suitable for strollers and some wheelchairs, other parts consist of crushed stone or can be hilly and curvy. It's best to consult specific park maps for the most accessible sections, such as those within Bellevue State Park where adaptive tricycles are available for rent.

The trail winds through Piedmont forests, streams, and open spaces, providing habitats for various wildlife. Hikers and cyclists might spot common woodland creatures such as deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Keep an eye out, especially in the quieter, more wooded sections.

While the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail is primarily a linear multi-use pathway connecting various parks, many of the parks it traverses, such as Bellevue State Park and Alapocas Run State Park, offer their own internal loop trails that can be combined with sections of the Greenway for varied route options.

As a popular National Recreation Trail, the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail can experience moderate to high visitor traffic, particularly on pleasant weekends and holidays. Sections passing through major parks like Bellevue and Alapocas Run tend to be busier. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekday mornings or later afternoons.

The trail's inception dates back to the early 1990s, driven by local residents' efforts to preserve open space. This led to the formation of Delaware Greenways, which collaborated with various stakeholders to plan and construct the trail. The entire trail took 25 years to complete, with its most recent section finished in 2009, as part of a broader initiative to preserve open space and reuse historic structures.