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Chesapeake & Delaware Canal Trail (DE):
Delaware
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Description:
The Chesapeake and Delaware Canal connects the Delaware River, just south of Delaware City, to the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. The north and south banks of the canal include more than 5,100 acres of protected lands, managed by the Delaware Divisions of Fish and Wildlife and Parks and Recreation. More information, including background on the canal, a map and directions, can be found on ww.gorp.com. You can also e-mail Delaware State Parks at parkinfo@dnrec.state.de.us.
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Reviews: [0 trail ratings]
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Not a Bike Trail
By John Falk on July 15, 2004
This is not a bike trail. This is a rutted service road for the canal. What a wasted day and a wasted ride.
Not worth it
By Ron W. on September 09, 2002
"In short: Don't waste your time on this ""trail.""

Here's why: First, I'm not sure why they call this a trail. It's a road -- dirt and gravel, and well-used by vehicles. So unless you really enjoy that washboard effect, and getting lots of dirt in your mouth and eyes every time a vehicle passes, then you should pass on this trail.

If you're absolutely compelled to do it, you'll need some good advice on how to find it. Since this website -- in typical fashion -- has no directions, we relied on getting information from the locals when we reached Delaware City. Bad idea. Even the local police gave us wrong directions.

The trail is on the south side of canal, despite reports to the contrary. There's a similar road on the north side, but unless you can fly or float you won't be able to negotitate the various interruptions of the road.

If you've read this far, think twice! There are so many better trails than this one."
Trail Photo
Trail Facts
Trail End Points: Delaware City, DE to Chesapeake City, MD
Counties: Cecil County, New Castle
Trail Length: 14 miles
Trail Category: Canal
Trail Surfaces: Crushed Stone
Trail Activities: Walk, Horseback, Bicycle, Mountain Bicycle

Related Links
Guidebook: Learn more about other Mid-Atlantic rail-trails in RTC's Mid-Atlantic Guidebook.