Spotlight on Winter at Cape Henlopen State Park

Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes, Delaware attracts thousands of visitors during the summer months when sunbathing, sand castle building, and swimming are prime activities for beach-goers.  But did you know that Cape Henlopen has a lot to offer in the winter months too?  Here are 5 great activities for all ages that can be done any time of year:

  1. Visit the Seaside Nature Center
    Open from 9am-4pm all year round, theSeaside Nature Center has many exhibits and displays, tanks full of local fish, and even a touch-tank!  It’s definitely worth a visit.
  2. Take a walk on the beach
    Who says the beach is only for summer?  Taking a winter walk along the beach is invigorating!  Not only can you enjoy different scenery than in the summer months, but there are no crowds to fight for it!  I can’t think of anything better than a relaxing stroll under sun, listening to the waves crash nearby.  So, what are you waiting for?  Bundle up and get out there!  There’s nothing more beautiful than a beach you have all to yourself.
  3. Hike or bike the trails
    There are 8 trails within Cape Henlopen, ranging from just over half a mile to 5 miles in length.  Some trails are designated for hiking only, but there are lovely, paved bike trails as well, and even an equestrian trail.  If you like to hike, you can even take part in the Delaware State Parks Trail Challenge – 3 of the trails are within Cape Henlopen!  If biking is more your thing, stop by the Seaside Nature Center (see #1!) to borrow a free bike from the Friends Park Pedal program and pedal around these beautiful trails!  If you want to check out the trails in advance, you can even download trail maps here.
  4. Check out one of the organized programs
    Cape Henlopen offers a wide variety of public programs for all different ages.  Many programs are family-friendly and some are even geared specifically for children!  Upcoming programs include a Winter Moon Hike, Awesome Amphibians, and a Youth Saltwater Tying Workshop.  Some events require a small fee, but most are free.  Pre-registration is often required, even for free events, so it’s best to call early and save your spot!  There is a complete list of events on their website, and there’s plenty to choose from even in the winter months!
  5. Explore history
    Fort Miles was a key piece of our nation’s coastal defense during World War II, and it is located in what is now Cape Henlopen State Park.  Fort Miles is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is a great place for families and history buffs alike!  So take a tour, participate in the interpretive program, and find out more about the role of the Delaware shore in World War II.  The Fort Miles Orientation Building is open from 10am-4pm on Fridays and Saturdays through the end of March.  Beginning it April is open from 10am-4pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays as well.

These activities are available year round, but why wait for the heat and the crowds to take advantage of them?  Head over to Cape Henlopen soon and discover what the beach has to offer in winter!!  When you do, you’ll see for yourself why we love Cape Henlopen and the town of Lewes so much.

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