Forests, and marshes, and beaches, oh my! It’s rare to find a hike that takes you through three distinct ecosystems, but the Seahawk Nature Trail does just that. This hiking trail in Holts Landing State Park is perfect for nature enthusiasts and scenery lovers alike. So tie on those boots and head over to Dagsboro for a memorable waterfront hike in Delaware by Indian River Bay.
Holts Landing State Park is hidden along the Indian River Bay, which is about seven miles northwest of Bethany Beach. The state named the park for the family that previously owned the land. This unique area offers bay shoreline, intertidal zones, salt marsh, and maritime forest. You will be able to see so much at just one park!
Note that there is a small entrance fee charged March 1 through November 30, payable by cash only.
The Seahawk Nature Trail is a 1.4-mile loop that will take you through all the park's habitats. Start south from the parking lot and walk through your first ecosystem, the maritime forest.
The wetland areas, not surprisingly, can be wet, so boardwalks provide dry transport through the marsh. Hikers have noted that some areas are muddy and buggy, so be sure to come prepared.
Following the ADA accessible path, you will come across ponds and freshwater habitats. The park is open year-round, but hikers have noted the trail is especially lovely in spring and fall.
Educational signs dot the trail. So be sure to stop and read them. They have a lot of interesting information about the land, the habitats, and the wildlife that resides there.
The loop trail eventually heads back north toward the bay. You will then arrive at the beautiful expanse of the Indian River Bay. Keep your eyes peeled for hawks, herons, and osprey.
As you return to the parking lot on the home stretch of your adventure, you cross over a long, low bridge through the salt marsh. You will be amazed by how many different habitats you've seen in just 1.4 miles!
There is so much to see as you hike through the three different wildlife areas at Holts Landing State Park. So grab some bug spray and some waterproof hiking boots and check it out today. Learn more about this waterfront hike in Delaware, here.
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