Duration: 49 minutes
Distance (five trails): 4.5 miles total
Address: 490 Woodland Road, Seaford, DE 19973
Coordinates: 38.632140, -75.637992
Link to page: http://www.nanticokeconservancy.org/
Difficulty: Medium
If you’re looking for a more expansive hike with multiple trails, you can’t go wrong with Chapel Branch Nature Trail. The area is free to access, and there is a gravel parking lot right by the trail entrance. Not very well-known except by locals, the trail includes beautiful ponds and is a bit of a hidden gem. The Nanticoke River Watershed Conservancy manages this trail.
Chapel Branch Nature Trail is a part of the Nanticoke Heritage Bypass, a 40-mile-long byway built along the Nanticoke River. The concept of the bypass is to connect preserved nature areas with a rich history. The three towns that make up the bypass (Bethel, Laurel, and Seaford) were once centers for trading and shipbuilding until the 19th century. The trail has been home to Seaford High School’s cross country team since at least 2007.
Due to stairs and frequent elevation changes, the trail is not wheelchair-accessible. There are also no amenities. However, there are plenty of benches to rest on during your hike. Additionally, the area is well-shaded and includes bright yellow markers with several arrows that indicate the distances. Lastly, be sure to bring bug spray as mosquitos can be vicious.
