Autumn truly is a delightful season in Delaware, and you don't need to go very far to see it. While the beautiful fall is definitely a time of cozying up with a book and a warm drink, it's also an excellent opportunity to take a walk or a long, leisurely drive. Fortunately, you have a wide variety of options, and you don't have to plan to hike or camp unless you want to. Follow our guide to the best sights in Delaware in the fall.
Which Locations Have the Most Impressive Autumn Leaves?
You don't have to leave the state to see impressive views in the fall. Here are seven of our favorite places to go see autumn leaves. Pick one for a getaway, or enjoy all of them throughout the season.
Curious about how you can enjoy a beautiful fall day without having to leave home? Check out our outdoor living design trends for 2021.
1. Blackbird State Forest
Blackbird State Forest has a little for everyone. It's close to Wilmington, which means you could easily turn it into a brief day trip. Take a short, accessible nature trail and explore some of the delights of the forest, perfect for young children and families of all ages. If you're looking for something a bit more rustic, there are five primitive camping sites that you'll have to search in order to find. You can wander through the woods and imagine what it is like to be completely away from civilization.
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2. Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge
If you prefer your fall foliage visit to include a bit more wildlife, the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge has plenty for you to do. Hundreds of thousands of ducks and geese migrate here during the fall to make a winter home. If you're an avid birder or nature photographer, you can spend many happy hours here.
3. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
For something a bit different, you might want to check out the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. Located on Delaware Bay, you can wind your way through trails on this tidal salt marsh. While you're there, you will see how the seascape changes from summer to winter.
4. Killens Pond State Park
Don't be scared away from the name, because Killens Pond is an excellent place to visit. Positioned on the Murderkill River, Killens Pond is 66 acres of cool, glassy waters. Take a walk on the trail that circles the pond, with the leaves falling at your feet and the trees shading you from the autumn sun.
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5. White Clay Creek State Park
If you love to fish or hike, you'll find endless opportunities to do it at White Clay Creek State Park. Bring the family and spend a day fly-fishing for largemouth bass surrounded by beautiful, turning leaves. You can also get fresh air and some great photos on nearly 40 miles of trails.
6. Lums Pond State Park
Lums Pond is one of the most outstanding parks to visit in the fall. Perfect for a getaway, the state park features a variety of campgrounds, picnic areas, and even golfing. Take a long trail through forests aflame with color, or paddle the pond surrounded by red, orange and yellow.
7. Trap Pond State Park
A visit to Trap Pond State Park shows you the last remnants of a major wetland. Walking the boardwalks makes it easy to see the changing colors from a comfortable vantage point. You can also sign up for a tour on a pontoon boat, to show you a close-up view of a cypress swamp.
Want more ways to enjoy the Delaware colors from your own yard? Read our guide about adding a patio to your home.
Where Is the Fall Foliage in the Delaware Water Gap?
If you're up for an out-of-state getaway, there are few autumn drives that are better for fall foliage than the Delaware Water Gap. If you take Route 209, you will make your way through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which runs along the border of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. This protected area features 70,000 acres of hikes to glorious waterfalls, plus miles of unspoiled forest.
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What Is There to Do in Delaware in the Fall?
If you're dying to see fall foliage but you are hoping for a short trip that you don't have to plan, you have plenty of options. Wilmington & Western Railroad has an Autumn Leaf Special that gives you two choices, with a brief layover at each destination to take a few great pictures. The first takes you to the Mt. Cuba Picnic Grove, where you can leave the train for a break or continue on to see more. The second is a longer route that stops in Hockessin, a perfect location for a walk or a bite to eat before you get back on the train.
If you find yourself in the area for any reason, you might want to check out the Mt. Cuba Center, an outstanding botanical garden featuring species that are native to Delaware. Or take a hop, skip, and a jump over to Winterthur, to explore the gardens or the enchanted woods.
When you're done with a lovely visit to one of these fabulous fall locations in Delaware, it's wonderful to see your home looking beautiful and bright for the season. At First Class Lawn Care, we help ensure that your property always looks its best. For a free quote, contact us today.
