Mason Dixon Trail, New Castle County Travel Guide

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Hike through history and nature on the Mason Dixon Trail, a 193-mile adventure across Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware.

The Mason Dixon Trail is a 193-mile hiking trail that spans Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware, offering a diverse landscape of farmlands, forests, and historic sites. Named after the historic Mason-Dixon line, it provides a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

A brief summary to Mason Dixon Trail

664-698 Benge Rd, Hockessin, Yorklyn, Delaware, 19707, US
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Monday 7 am-8 pm
Tuesday 7 am-8 pm
Wednesday 7 am-8 pm
Thursday 7 am-8 pm
Friday 7 am-8 pm
Saturday 7 am-8 pm
Sunday 7 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mason Dixon Trail.

Wear appropriate footwear for varied terrains, as the trail includes both footpaths and road sections.
Bring plenty of water, especially during summer, as some sections have limited access to water sources.
Be aware of ticks and mosquitoes, especially in wooded areas, and use insect repellent.
Check the official Mason Dixon Trail System website for updated trail conditions and possible relocations due to private land considerations.
Plan your hike to include a visit to the Susquehanna River section, a designated National Recreation Trail known for its scenic views.

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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.

New Castle Battery Park

First State National Historical Park

Packet Alley

Dutch House Museum

New Castle Visitor Center at The Arsenal

Explore Mason Dixon Trail on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Mason Dixon Trail, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the intersection of DE-41 and Yorklyn Rd in Hockessin, proceed northeast on Yorklyn Rd for about 1.6 miles. Turn right into the parking lot just before the bridge to Creek Rd. From Lums Pond State Park, follow the park's trails to DE-896 N, then walk/bike along the shoulder for 5 miles to Benge Rd. Turn left onto Benge Rd and continue for 1 mile to the Mason Dixon Trailhead. No parking fee is required.
Public Transportation

Take a DART First State bus to the Wilmington area, then transfer to a bus heading towards Hockessin. From Hockessin, walk approximately 1.5 miles to Benge Rd, where the Mason Dixon Trailhead is located. Check the DART First State schedule for bus timings and routes, as they may vary. A one-way bus fare is typically around $2 - $4.

Discover more about Mason Dixon Trail

The Mason Dixon Trail, stretching 193 miles, offers hikers a unique journey through the landscapes and history of Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. Conceived in the early 1980s, the trail aims to connect eastern Pennsylvania's Brandywine Trail with the Susquehanna River. It was initially named the Brandywine Susquehanna Trail before being renamed after the Mason-Dixon Line.The trail crosses the Mason-Dixon line at several points, though it doesn't directly follow the line laid out in 1767. The trail begins at the Appalachian Trail in south-central Pennsylvania and re-enters Pennsylvania before ending at Chadds Ford. Approximately one-third of the route follows roads through rural areas, while the remainder consists of traditional footpaths.The Mason Dixon Trail provides a mix of rural and semi-urban landscapes. In Pennsylvania, the trail features farmlands and forested areas, while in Maryland and Delaware, hikers encounter historic sites and small towns. The trail also passes through White Clay Creek State Park in the Delaware Wedge area and Auburn Valley State Park.The trail offers various activities, including hiking and walking, with a natural dirt surface. The trail is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience its beauty in different seasons.