Horseback Riding
Delaware State Parks offer a diverse network of scenic trails that invite adventurers of all levels to explore the beauty of the First State. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll through lush forests or a challenging hike up rugged terrain, there's something for everyone. With over 150 miles of trails ranging from easy, family-friendly paths to more strenuous routes for seasoned hikers, our parks provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor fun. From coastal views to historic landmarks and wildlife sightings, each trail promises a unique adventure. So, lace up your shoes, bring the family, and discover the natural wonders waiting for you on Delaware’s trails!
Horse Trail
Trail users will travel through the Bellevue Woods Nature Preserve, and pass the garden plots, the Percheron Barn, the Equestrian Training Center and the Arts Center.
Trail Length: 2.7 miles
Accessible? No , Difficulty: Easy
Trail Head: Arts Center Parking Area
Ride horseback on the Equestrian Trail and experience many areas within Bellevue State Park. Trail users will travel through the Bellevue Woods Nature Preserve, and pass the garden plots, the Percheron Barn, the Equestrian Training Center and the Arts Center.
Equestrian Note: Please observe the riding guidelines, beach access schedule, parking and crossover connections in the Horseback Riding Guidelines.
Beach Trail
Ride horseback along the ocean beach or hike the Atlantic Ocean between Cape Henlopen and Gordons Pond. Beach users can experience the constant change of the marine environment and nature enthusiasts can see shore birds foraging along the water's edge or Osprey circling overhead.
Trail Length: 4.6 miles
Trail Head: Point Comfort Station parking lot, Bathhouse parking lot, Herring Point parking lot, Gordons Pond parking lot (Equestrian Trail Head: Point Comfort Station parking lot or Gordons Pond Area parking lot)
Stroll or ride horseback along the ocean beach or hike the Atlantic Ocean between Cape Henlopen and Gordons Pond. Beach users can experience the constant change of the marine environment and nature enthusiasts can see shore birds foraging along the water’s edge or Osprey circling overhead. See the military bunkers, which housed heavy artillery during World War II, tucked under high sand dunes or watch large cargo ships entering the mouth of the Delaware Bay. Please Note: The beach north of the Point parking lot is subject to closure from March 1 to September 1. Please consult the Park Office at (302) 645-8983 for details before entering this area.
Equestrian Note: 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.
Delaware Seashore Equestrian Trails
Delaware Seashore has 3 trails open for horseback riding.
Trail Length: 1 mile
Trail Head: Hickman Road parking lot
This one-mile connector trail links the Fred Hudson Road Pathway to the stone-surfaced segment of the Prickly Pear Trail, creating a north-south all-weather trail alternative to Route 1. The entire trail is open to hiking and bicycling, and a 0.6-mile portion of it is open to horseback riding.
Prickly Pear
Trail Length: 3.5 miles
Trail Head: Hickman Road parking lot
This trail offers a 3.5-mile loop perfect for exploring the park’s open meadows, young hardwood and pine forests, and a view of the Indian River Bay. The trail is 8′ wide with a variable surface and is open to hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. Two connector trails provide community access at several locations throughout Fresh Pond.
Equestrian Note: Please review our Horseback Riding Guidelines.
Beach Area
Trail Length: 2.6 miles
Trail Head: Fenwick Island State Park Bathhouse parking lot, use maintenance vehicle 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. The 2.6 miles of Atlantic Ocean beach within Delaware Seashore State Park are open for hiking year-round.
Equestrian Note: Please observe the riding guidelines, beach access schedule, parking and crossover connections in the Horseback Riding Guidelines.
Beach Area
The Seahorse Trail provides access to the western portion of the park.
Trail Length: 2.6 miles
Trail Head: Fenwick Island State Park Bathhouse parking lot, use maintenance vehicle 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. The 2.6 miles of Atlantic Ocean beach within Delaware Seashore State Park are open for hiking year-round.
Equestrian Note: Please observe the riding guidelines, beach access schedule, parking and crossover connections in the Horseback Riding Guidelines.
Seahorse Trail
The Seahorse Trail provides access to the western portion of the park.
Trail Length: 1.2 miles
Trail Head: Marlin Drive
The Seahorse Trail provides access to the western portion of the park. The trail travels over packed earth along the forest edge, open meadow, and dense forest.
Little Jersey Trail
The Little Jersey Trail is an outer loop through the park on packed earth surface. Trail users will pass through hardwood forests and open areas.
Trail Length: 8.1 miles
Trail Head: Across from the Nature Center; Buck Jersey Road parking lot; Boat Launch parking lot off Red Lion Road
The Little Jersey Trail is an outer loop through the park on packed earth surface. Trail users will pass through hardwood forests and open areas. The trail links to the campground, Equestrian Center, and boat ramp and crosses the park entrance road. The trail is wide to accommodate shared use among hikers, bikers, and equestrians.
Equestrian Note: Please refer to the Horseback Riding Guidelines.
Bob Trail and Huckleberry Trail
Bob Trail winds around Trap Pond and links the Park Office, campground, and Baldcypress Nature Center. Huckleberry Trail loops around the southern part of Trap Pond State Park.
Trail Length: 4.6 miles
Trail Head: Across from the Baldcypress Nature Center
This trail winds around Trap Pond and links the Park Office, campground, and Baldcypress Nature Center. Nature enthusiasts will find abundant warblers, kingfishers, Great Blue Heron and baldcypress trees in their wetland habitats. The trail follows a crushed stone surface and traverses a fresh water wetland over an elevated bridge. This area is popular among birding enthusiasts. The Bob Trail allows for a full experience and appreciation of the park. Please Note: Horseback riding is permitted on the trail section which coincides with the Boundary Trail in the southwest area of the park. Please consult the park map and check trail use markers.
Huckleberry
Trail Length: 1.8 miles
Trail Head: Across from the Baldcypress Nature Center
This Trail loops around the southern part of Trap Pond State Park.
Equestrian Note: Please refer to the Horseback Riding Guidelines.
PennDel Trail
PennDel, also known as Creek Road Trail, is a flat terrain trail taking you through hardwood forests with great views of the White Clay Creek.
Trail Length: 2.8 miles
Trail Head: Nature Center Parking Area at 1475 Creek Rd. Newark, DE 19711
PennDel, also known as Creek Road Trail, is a flat terrain trail taking you through hardwood forests with great views of the White Clay Creek. PennDel Trail extends north from a connection with the Pomeroy Trail north of the University of Delaware and continues into Pennsylvania to the White Clay Creek Preserve. Park at the Nature Center to travel north towards Pennsylvania or south towards the university. Near the Wedgewood Road Parking Area, you can take a connector trail across the creek on the Shirley Russel Bridge to the Pomeroy Trail.