Online registration for the annual Hike Across Delaware (HAD), which is organized by the Wilmington Trail Club, opens on Thursday, September 1. The HAD will take place on Saturday, November 5, 2022. This non-competitive, annual community event offers the opportunity to hike fifteen miles, the entire width of Delaware.
Check-in takes place at the Gazebo in Delaware City’s Battery Park between 8 and 8:45 a.m. at which time buses take participants to the start in North Chesapeake City, Maryland. Delaware City public parking is available one block from Battery Park at 82 Washington Street.
The hikers use the biking/ walking path along the north side of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. The route is mostly flat, mostly paved, and lies mainly on land designated as the C&D Canal Conservation Area. At the town of St. Georges, 10 miles along the trail, light refreshments and rest rooms are available. At this juncture, provisions are made to transport people back to their cars, if necessary.
The early November weather is usually ideal and the trees and shrubbery sporting their fall foliage, combined with a close view of boats, ships and barges using the waterway, make for a pleasant journey along the trail.
The trail is paved and comfortable sneakers or walking shoes, not hiking boots, are recommended. Although the terrain is not difficult, the distance requires adequate preparation. But, just think – you’ll be able to tell people you walked across an entire state!
If any Mountain Club members are interested in registering for the HAD, or getting more information, go their web site at Hike Across Delaware (HAD) – Wilmington Trail Club.