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Trails
Delaware Seashore State Park
Beach Area
- Mode: Hiking and Equestrian
- Distance: 4.6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Accessible: No
- Hiking Trailhead: Towers Ocean and Keybox Road parking lots
- Equestrian Trailhead: Towers Ocean - use crossing marked for equestrian access
Keybox Road - use vehicle dune crossing
Beach users can experience the constant change of the marine environment and nature enthusiasts can view shore birds foraging along the water's edge or Ospreys circling overhead. Stroll or ride along 4.6 miles of Atlantic Ocean beach within Delaware Seashore State Park. The beach is open for hiking year-round and seasonally for horse riding.
Equestrian Notes: 1) The designated beach for equestrian use runs from the Tower Ocean parking lot equestrian crossover, south for approximately 4.6 miles, to within 200 yards of the Indian River Inlet; and 2) seasonal horseback riding is permitted on the ocean beach. Please observe the riding guidelines, beach access schedule, parking and crossover connections in the Horseback Riding Guidelines.
Burton Island Trail
- Mode: Hiking only
- Distance: 1.5 miles (one way)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Accessible: No
- Trailhead: North end of the Indian River Marina
This loop trail begins at the causeway on the north end of the marina and travels over a packed and loose sandy surface through upland forests and over elevated boardwalks. The boardwalks provide views of the Indian River Bay, the Rehoboth Bay, and of the open salt marsh. The island features an inland bay habitat that supports a variety of birds, plants, fish, reptiles, and mammals.
Please note: Please stay on the trail while visiting the island. The island provides important nesting grounds for the Diamondback Terrapin. Trail use is recommended during the cooler months of the year.
Prickly Pear Trail
- Mode: Hiking, Biking, and Equestrian
- Distance: 3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Accessible: Yes
- Trailhead: Hickman Road parking lot
This trail offers a three-mile loop perfect for exploring the park, and a 0.3-mile side trail that leads to a view of the Indian River Bay. The trail is wide with a grass or packed sand surface and is open to hiking, bicycling, and seasonal horseback riding. A 1/8-mile paved connector trail provides access from Route 1 at the north end of Fresh Pond.
Thompson Island Trail
- Mode: Hiking only
- Distance: 3 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Accessible: No
- Trailhead: Spring Lake Condominiums Parking
The hike begins in a mature upland hardwood and conifer forest before traversing a small glade where hikers can catch a glimpse of the tidal marsh. The trail continues through uplands before meandering along the Lewes/Rehoboth Canal. Hikers will experience views of the Rehoboth Bay and the Dewey Beach skyline. The final section is a loop trail on Thompson Island.
Please Note: Leaving the trail is strictly prohibited. No dogs are allowed in the Thompson Island Area.