Alapocas Run State Park — Attraction in Wilmington

When I arrived here, I was expecting a nice, flat idyllic hike through greenery. That is very much not what I got. But what I did get was quite exhilarating, a nice party experience through unexpectedly rugged terrain. There are solid, sheer cliffs here that are quite surprising to someone like me that typically associate this area with rolling flat hills and waterways. I cannot quite say the landscape is as majestic and imposing as what I am used to back home in Colorado, but it reminded me of back home a little more than I expected. The landscape here is quite wooded and thick. Please stay on the paths if you can. If you venture out of the paths, the terrain can become quite challenging and arduous. I once had to scramble down this steep slope to get back to a path on the lowlands. And I suffered the misfortune of having these thin vines wrap around me. I did nothing, they looked innocent enough. I was naive.

The harder I pulled the tauter these vines became and I eventually had to take a deep breath and manually go through the process of untangling my limbs from these vines. The topography here is quite demanding, and if you are going to venture off the paths, I highly recommend you bring hiking boots. Even if you are planning to stay on the path, I highly recommend bringing the boots anyway. The landscape can become quite steep, and the changes in elevation are not always forgiving. But I hope I do not dissuade anyone from coming into this park from what I've been saying. It is an opportunity for exploration, evoking sparks of wonder and enchantment at exploring this unfamiliar and quite vibrant terrain, characterized by stark geologic uplifts that elevate up these layers and striations of rock formed over millions of years, resulting in a symphony of...

Nestled just on the outskirts of residential Wilmington, the park offers an unexpected retreat into nature that feels like a well-kept secret. This hidden gem manages to provide a serene escape while being conveniently close to downtown and the surround suburbs. We hiked the Blue Ball barn to the Brandywine Creek trail. The trail's seclusion is its charm, creating an immersive experience that transports hikers into a tranquil world, seemingly far removed from the everyday hustle.

What sets this trail apart is its elevation changes, a rarity in the otherwise flat landscape of Delaware. As you ascend, the air becomes crisper, and the surroundings transform into a lush, vibrant greenery. The trail navigates through the woods, revealing occasional glimpses of the breathtaking Brandywine Creek below. The pièce de résistance, however, is the stunning view of the Delaware Blue Rock Cliff. This natural marvel serves as a picturesque backdrop, instilling a sense of awe and appreciation for the region's geological wonders.

The ambiance is pure serenity, enhanced by the distant murmur of the creek and the rustle of leaves underfoot. It's easy to forget you're in Delaware, as the trail immerses you in a landscape that seems worlds away from the typical suburban scenery. The secluded nature of the hike fosters a feeling of solitude, allowing hikers to reconnect with nature and find a peaceful escape without venturing too far from home. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual nature enthusiast, this trail offers a perfect blend of accessibility and tranquility, making it a must-visit for those seeking a rejuvenating outdoor experience.

Dog and...

This park is amazing! It's vast and has many different types of terrain. There are a few different parts of the park. This review is mainly about the area near the cliffs and Bancroft mill. There are many ways to get to this area, but I find 2 are easiest for parking purposes. If you come from the Brandywine Zoo end, you have some serious hiking ahead of you. The paths are paved and have some extremely steep hills. Not for the faint of heart or those with knee problems. These paths are popular with locals since they offer an excellent workout on foot or on 2 wheels. If you park behind Bancroft mill and enter across the bridge, it brings you right to the red cliffs and trails. This is a much easier and faster way to reach the cliffs and mill area. There is still some good steep hiking if you head left along the river and then up to your right onto the cliffs. If you're into rock climbing, the cliffs are a good spot. Many people take to the cool meandering waters of the Brandywine river. Tubing is very popular here and up steam from the mill, there are a few man-made waterfalls when kids enjoy swimming. There is some wonderful history here, which you can learn about at various well maintained info stations. The surrounding streets have some good places to eat and...