Forests in Delaware

Delaware has three main state forests, one in each county: Blackbird State Forest, Redden State Forest, and Taber State Forest. These areas are managed for timber, wildlife, and public recreation, featuring landscapes of mixed hardwoods and loblolly pine. This page aggregates routes within several tracts of these forests.

Notable forest areas in Delaware include several tracts within its state forests. In Blackbird State Forest, key areas are the Blackbird State Forest - Headquarters-Tybout Tract and the Blackbird State Forest - Cypress Complex. In Sussex County, the Redden State Forest - Long Tract is another significant area.

The primary activities in Delaware's forests are hiking, road cycling, and mountain biking. This page includes over 30 routes across these sports. The terrain is generally flat, making it suitable for various skill levels.

Blackbird State Forest offers numerous hiking opportunities across its various tracts. For example, the Blackbird State Forest - Headquarters-Tybout Tract and the Blackbird State Forest - Wright Tract both contain networks of hiking trails. The terrain is typically flat, passing through mixed hardwood forests.

Yes, Redden State Forest provides opportunities for cycling. The Redden State Forest - Long Tract features routes suitable for road cycling. The forest's extensive trail system, over 44 miles (70 km) in total, also accommodates bicycling through its loblolly pine and mixed hardwood landscapes.

The landscape in Delaware's forests varies by location. Northern forests, like Blackbird State Forest, feature mixed hardwoods such as oaks, maple, and hickories. Southern forests, including Redden State Forest, are dominated by loblolly pine with some mixed hardwoods. The terrain throughout the state's forests is generally flat.

Yes, many trails in Delaware's forests are suitable for families due to the generally flat terrain. Blackbird State Forest includes a half-mile, wheelchair-accessible wildlife and nature interpretation trail in the Tybout Tract. The extensive trail networks in all state forests offer options for shorter, less strenuous outings.

Dogs are generally permitted in Delaware's state forests, but they must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. It is advisable to check specific regulations for the particular tract or trail before visiting.

Blackbird State Forest supports hiking, jogging, and horseback riding on its extensive trail system. The forest is divided into multiple tracts, including the Blackbird State Forest - Bruce C. Ennis Tract, which offers trails through meadows and woods. The forest also has an education center and an accessible nature trail.

Redden State Forest is Delaware's largest state forest, covering over 14,000 acres (5,665 hectares). It features over 44 miles (70 km) of trails for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. The forest also has historical significance, with a former railroad executive's lodge on the property, and offers primitive camping and a catch-and-release fishing pond.

Primitive camping is available in some of Delaware's state forests. Redden State Forest offers eighteen primitive campsites in its Headquarters Tract. A permit from the Delaware Forest Service is required for camping, and reservations are recommended.