James F. Hall Trail

The James F. Hall rail-with-trail packs a lot into a short stretch: Its paved surface is great for bicycling, inline skating and strolling, and there are multiple playgrounds, picnic areas and access points along the route. Best of all, this urban trail never crosses a road, so you can coast uninterrupted for its entire length. The trail also offers alternative transportation benefits, connecting Newark neighborhoods with a regional transit station, the University of Delaware and shopping centers.

If you're a train aficionado, it's almost guaranteed that you'll spot a car riding along the adjacent rail corridor, used by Amtrak, CSX and the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). But you won't get too close to the trains, since a large fence separates the trail from the active rails. Families with young children will especially enjoy this route, which passes three playgrounds featuring swings, slides, baseball diamonds and soccer fields, plus basketball, handball and tennis courts. The trail also crosses streams and wetlands and runs through a semi-forested area. Police call boxes are provided every 0.1 mile, and the trail is lit for use after dark.

To reach Delaware Technology Park at the northern end of the trail, from Interstate 95, take State Route 896 north toward downtown. Turn right on East Park Place, and then turn left onto South Chapel Street and right onto Wyoming Road. Park across from the College Square Shopping Center. The trail begins right at the intersection of Wyoming Road and Library Ave.

To reach College Ave./Septa Station, from I-95, take SR 896 (College Ave.) north to head downtown. After the University of Delaware field house and sports arena, go over an overpass. The trail is under this overpass. Take a quick left at the end of the overpass, where you will find parking and the Septa station.

To reach Bradford Lane at the southeastern end of the trail, from I-95, take SR 896 north and turn left onto West Park Place. Turn left onto Apple Road, and then turn right onto Chrysler Ave. Turn right onto Bradford Lane, just after passing Devon Drive. The trail is at the end of the road. There is no dedicated parking at this location.