Redden State Forest Headquarters Loop Trail

Delaware

6 Reviews

Redden State Forest, located just north of Georgetown in Sussex County, offers more than 44 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching and hunting on several thousand acres.

The most popular trail is a four-mile loop around the 1,836-acre Headquarters Tract. Visitors will find hardwood trees and loblolly pine as they explore this well-traveled trail. The trail cuts through dense woods, across bridges and through swamps and meadow areas. There are several smaller trails to explore off this main trail as well.

Redden Lodge is a historic highlight along this loop. Built in the early 20th century by the Pennsylvania Railroad, the lodge was used by railroad executives for conferences and hunting excursions. Now the structure is a popular spot for meetings, family gatherings and other events.

Hunters use the state forest during hunting season (typically between fall and January 1st); if you are using the trail then, wear bright orange to be safe.

Maps of all the forest trails are available at the headquarters building.

Parking and Trail Access

To access the trail from Georgetown, take State Route 113 north and turn east on E. Redden Road/Road 565. Turn right into the Headquarters Tract at Redden Forest Drive, just past the railroad tracks. Parking is available at the headquarters building on the right after the fishing pond.

Free and accessible.

March 2025 mih28271

An amazing free resource for the lower eastern shore. Flat sand trail mostly covered with pine needles. I would not recommend this trail if your tires are less than 50mm (2 inch) wide. Minimal but effective main trail markings. Multiple unmarked side trails. Adequate parking. Pack a lunch and make a day of it. This is a state forest not a park, there are port-a-john's near the parking area.

Beware - No trail markings!

January 2021 msscottwg

While scenic, this trail is not marked at all. Even while on the outside trail loop, it was difficult to tell which direction to go at major trail intersections. Trail markings are essential to communicate where a hiker is currently, and where you need to go next. If you don't have WiFi, you can't count on referencing GPS or TrailLinks online map--which can be downright unsafe if you're a novice hiker or have young children.