The Wild 8.5-Mile Trail in Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge That’s Worth the Time and Effort

There are plenty of epic Delaware hiking trails, but if you're looking for a rather long one in an especially beautiful place, then you're going to love this one we found for you inside Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. When you embark upon and conquer this 8.5-mile trail, you'll see lots of birds and other wildlife, and that's something every hiker loves.

Read on to learn more about this very special hike. You'll want to hit the trail right away after reading. Get ready—and happy trails to you!

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is an absolute gem. It's not only a wonderful place within the state of Delaware but also one of the most beautiful and accessible wildlife refuges in the entire nation. This huge coastal refuge, established in 1937, covers 15,978 acres—that's 25 square miles.

It exists to offer refuge and a breeding ground for migratory birds that travel up and down our nation's east coast. Many birds pass through this area when traveling in both directions each year, and many others live in the refuge all year round. Over 300 different species of birds have been recorded in this protected space.

The fact that this wildlife refuge exists is so important. It's mostly made up of tidal salt marsh, which is one of the most threatened habitats in the world. Marshy areas like this one provide food, shelter, and breeding ground for countless birds, mammals, and marine organisms. Without this protected space, all of these creatures would struggle to find space for all of the above along the heavily populated East Coast.

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic place for people, too. There is a 12-mile wildlife driving route that offers excellent access to the refuge and that is also great for wildlife watching. However, you'll see even more if you take the time to explore on foot. The 8.5-mile Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge Loop is a long trail within the refuge that encourages visitors to experience this very special place in an up-close-and-personal way.

This trail is quite easy, other than its length. Hiking this entire trail will take most hikers about three hours. There's very little elevation gain along the way on this trail; you'll only gain about 32 feet of elevation over the entire 8.5 miles.

You're sure to see lots of birds on this hike, and you may even see some mammals as well. Scientists have found that at least 35 different species of mammals live in the park. Reptiles and amphibians also live in this environment. You'll be amazed at all the different creatures that you see during your visit, and there are lots of interesting plants to discover and view.

Dogs are welcome in Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, but they must remain on a leash. This hike is best in the spring, summer, and autumn months, but you'll want to bring insect repellent when the weather is warm—insects love salt marshes!

You might consider going on this hike early in the day when the refuge is quiet and empty—it will just be you and lots and lots of birds—and the sunrises in Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge are spectacular.

This wildlife refuge is just one of many amazing things you'll find in Delaware, and many people might even go as far as to say that its one of the very best. You'll love this place, and you'll love this hike. Plan a visit as soon as you can—the birds and other wildlife await you!

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.