Cape Henlopen State Park Bike Trails
Located along the coast of Delaware lies the quaint Cape Henlopen State Park. Offering sunny beaches, a nature center, aquariums, dolphin sightings and history museums, Cape Henlopen has become a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. The observation tower, a relic of World War II, is a popular destination spot that lies just off another attraction — the Bike Loop trail.
10 Miles of Cycling Trails Near Lewes & Rehoboth
Cape Henlopen is home to more than 10 miles of cycling trails near Lewes and Rehoboth, making it a popular destination for those looking to bike ride near Rehoboth Beach. The Bike Loop trail is on paved asphalt and is rated easy-to-moderate difficulty.
Where Can I Park?
Once you get to Cape Henlopen State Park, you can choose to park wherever makes sense for you. Depending on your plans, you may park at the Campgrounds, Greate Dune, the Bathhouse or the Nature Center. The entry fee is $8 for out-of-state motorists and $4 for in-state.
Where Is the Trailhead?
Because the trail runs as a loop, there are a few different places you can get started on your ride. The Bike Loop trailheads can be found near the Seaside Nature Center, the Bathhouse parking lot, the Fishing Pier parking lot and the Fort Miles Historic Area.
The Bike Loop also acts as the source of many other trail tributaries if you want to extend your ride, such as the Seaside Nature Trail, Pinelands Nature Trail, Walking Dunes Trail and Salt Marsh Spur. Some of these offshoots will allow you to discover the area's dunes and visit the local deer population, while others are right off marshes and provide a beautiful unobstructed view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Can I Bike in a Group?
Because the trails are wider, you are able to bike in small groups. Just keep in mind that this is a public park and that there will be others using the trail too. Do your best to be aware of your surroundings and be considerate of other cyclists and pedestrians.
If you do choose to ride in a group, you may only ride two abreast, meaning only aside one other cyclist, and your group should not impede other trail users.
Where Can I Ride?
On Cape Henlopen State Park Bike trails, bicycling is only allowed on roadways and trails designated for their use. Stay on the trail and don't veer into the woods or onto the beach or marsh. There will be signs to notify you of off-limit trails. Riding anywhere not designated for biking is against Delaware State Park regulations.
In addition, bicycles must be ridden as far to the right as possible on trails.
Is There Any Bike Etiquette?
Though Cape Henlopen is a place for you to relax and be active, there are rules that must be followed. Many of these rules are common sense, and if you use your best judgment, they should be easy to follow.
Some of these are spelled out in Delaware's Regulations Governing State Parks. These include rules such as:
Bicyclists riding on designated trails will yield right of way at all intersections. Bicyclists will also yield to equestrians and hikers and allow them to pass.
Bicyclists shall obey traffic control devices, like stoplights and stop signs, and obey trail markings.
Bicyclists riding at night must equip their bikes with a lamp on the front shining a bright light and reflectors on the rear and sides.
Where Can I Use the Bathroom?
There are facilities throughout Cape Henlopen State Park where you can stop and use the restroom. There are facilities at the Bathhouse at the eastern end of the trail, and there are two restroom and shower areas on the southwest end. These are located between the Observation Tower and Tower Number 12.
Restaurants Near Cape Henlopen State Park
Cape Henlopen State Park has so many attractions that it can feel like there are endless things to do. No matter how energetic you are, it's going to take a lot out of you. If the Cape Henlopen State Park concession stand located at the Bathhouse doesn't have what you had in mind, Thompson Island Brewing Co probably does.
Thompson Island is a local craft brewer that offers a farm-inspired menu, which was cooked up by nationally recognized chefs. Most of our meals are cooked on our wood fired grill for a robust flavor.
Our menu is packed with food that will help reinvigorate you for another day on the Rehoboth bike trails, and our beer will give you another reason to come back to relax afterward. We are located at 30133 Veterans Way in Rehoboth Beach, just a few minutes from Cape Henlopen. If you have any questions about the menu, feel free to give us a call or contact us.
