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Gordon Pond Wildlife Area: A Coastal Haven

Explore diverse habitats, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife at this coastal Delaware gem. Perfect for birdwatching, hiking, and nature lovers.

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Gordon Pond Wildlife Area, nestled within Cape Henlopen State Park, offers a serene escape with diverse habitats, abundant wildlife, and scenic trails connecting Lewes and Rehoboth Beach. It's a prime location for birdwatching, hiking, and enjoying Delaware's natural beauty.

A brief summary to Gordon Pond Wildlife Area

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best opportunities to see wildlife in their natural habitats.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking or biking on nature trails.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
  • Stay hydrated and bring snacks, as facilities within the wildlife area are limited.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk, head north on Ocean Drive for approximately 2 miles. The Gordon Pond Wildlife Area parking lot will be on your left. From there, follow the signs to the trailhead. No entrance fees are required for accessing the wildlife area from the parking lot.

  • Public Transport

    From the Lewes Transit Center, take the DART First State Bus Route 204 towards Rehoboth Beach. Get off at the stop closest to Rehoboth Avenue and walk north on Henlopen Avenue/Ocean Drive for approximately 1 mile to reach the Gordon Pond Wildlife Area parking. A single bus fare costs $2. Check the DART First State website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information.

  • Driving

    From Route 1, turn onto Rehoboth Avenue towards Rehoboth Beach. Continue onto Henlopen Avenue, which becomes Ocean Drive. Follow Ocean Drive north for approximately 1 mile. The Gordon Pond Wildlife Area parking lot will be on your left. Parking at the Gordon Pond Day Use Area costs $15 per day during the week. Parking fees are enforced from March 1 to November 30.

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Discover more about Gordon Pond Wildlife Area

Gordon Pond Wildlife Area, a part of Cape Henlopen State Park, is a stunning natural expanse of over 5,200 acres. Located north of Rehoboth Beach, this area features a diverse range of habitats, including salt marshes, freshwater ponds, and tidal estuaries, making it a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. The area's history dates back to the 1600s when it was known as Martin's Vineyard. By 1715, the land was passed to the Gordon family, and over time, ocean winds and water shaped the landscape into the pond we see today. The Civilian Conservation Corps played a role in the 1930s by digging ditches to manage water levels. During the 1940s, the U.S. Army Coast Artillery controlled the area as part of Fort Miles, constructing observation towers nearby. In 1966, Gordon Pond became part of Cape Henlopen State Park. Today, visitors can explore the area via the Gordon Pond Trail, a nearly 3-mile scenic path perfect for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The trail connects Rehoboth Beach and Lewes, offering breathtaking views of the 900-acre saltwater lagoon and surrounding landscapes. A highlight of the trail is the elevated boardwalk with scenic overlooks, providing excellent vantage points for spotting waterfowl and other wildlife. Gordon Pond is recognized as one of North America's migration super highways for waterfowl, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. The Great Dune, rising 80 feet above sea level, is another notable feature, offering stunning views and diverse habitats that attract various mammal, reptile, and bird species. Keep an eye out for threatened shorebirds like piping plovers, least terns, and black skimmers. The park actively protects nesting areas, ensuring these species thrive. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a birdwatching adventure, or a scenic hike, Gordon Pond Wildlife Area promises a memorable experience immersed in Delaware's natural beauty.

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