Junction and Breakwater Trail, Cape Henlopen State Park Travel Guide

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Explore the scenic Junction and Breakwater Trail, a historic rail trail connecting Lewes and Rehoboth Beach with stunning views and natural beauty.

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Junction and Breakwater Trail

The Junction and Breakwater Trail, a 6-mile rail trail between Lewes and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, offers a scenic route for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts. Following the path of a former 19th-century railway, the trail provides a peaceful escape with beautiful views of forests, marshes, and local wildlife.

A brief summary to Junction and Breakwater Trail

35536 Wolfe Neck Rd, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, 19971, US
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Monday 7 am-7:30 pm
Tuesday 7 am-7:30 pm
Wednesday 7 am-7:30 pm
Thursday 7 am-7:30 pm
Friday 7 am-7:30 pm
Saturday 7 am-7:30 pm
Sunday 7 am-7:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Junction and Breakwater Trail.

Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities along the trail.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking or biking on varied surfaces like crushed stone and pavement.
Be aware of other trail users, including cyclists, walkers, and families, and follow trail etiquette.
Take time to read the interpretive signs to learn about the local history, plants, and wildlife.
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve

Zwaanendael Museum

Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse

Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Fort Miles Museum

Explore Junction and Breakwater Trail on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Junction and Breakwater Trail, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the intersection of Wolfe Neck Road and Route 1, walk west on Wolfe Neck Road for approximately 0.3 miles. The trailhead will be on your left, with parking available. Be mindful of traffic as you approach the trailhead. No fee is required for accessing the trail.
Driving

From Rehoboth Avenue, head west onto Rehoboth Avenue Ext. Continue onto Wolfe Neck Road. The trailhead parking will be on your right in approximately 1.5 miles. Parking is free. During peak season, parking can be limited, especially on weekends. An alternative parking location is behind the Tanger Outlets off of Holland Glade Road in Rehoboth.
Public Transport

The DART First State Route 204 serves the area near the Junction and Breakwater Trail. From the bus stop at the intersection of Route 1 and Wolfe Neck Road, walk west on Wolfe Neck Road for approximately 0.3 miles to reach the trailhead. A single ride fare is $2.00.

Discover more about Junction and Breakwater Trail

The Junction and Breakwater Trail offers a delightful journey through Delaware's coastal landscapes. This 6-mile rail trail, built on the former Junction and Breakwater Railroad line, connects the vibrant towns of Lewes and Rehoboth Beach.Established in the early 2000s, the trail is named after the historic rail line that transported passengers to the Atlantic coast resorts in the mid-1800s. The Pennsylvania Railroad later controlled the line before it was abandoned in the early 1970s. The trail officially opened on December 4, 2003, with an additional corridor added on June 4, 2007.Winding through hardwood and pine forests, open fields, and coastal marshes, the trail provides a serene escape from the nearby bustling Route 1. The flat terrain, with a mix of paved paths, crushed stone, and asphalt, makes it accessible for all ages and abilities. Keep an eye out for an 80-foot-long railroad bridge, constructed in 1913, which crosses Holland Glade and offers stunning views of the coastal wetlands and a World War II observation tower.Interpretive signs along the trail provide insights into the local history, plants, and wildlife of the Delaware Coastal Region. The trail is popular among locals and tourists alike, so remember to practice good trail etiquette. Whether you're a cyclist, walker, runner, or a family with a stroller, the Junction and Breakwater Trail promises a fun and educational outdoor adventure.