If you’ve spent any time in Sussex County, you’ve probably driven over Waples Pond dozens of times, without really noticing. This small pond is technically in Milton, but it’s far from the town’s vibrant center. And on any drive down Route 1, the pond and marshes all start to blend together. What’s truly amazing about this small pond is the secret it’s keeping. If you own (or rent) a kayak, canoe, or other watercraft, you can drop in right here and paddle into paradise on Prime Hook Creek.

The Prime Hook Canoe Trail Map Can Be Found Right Here
Photo Credit
Prime Hook Creek flows from Waples Mill Pond to the Broadkill River. It's easy to launch from the pond - the trail starts off shallow for the first 700 feet. Once you get going, it widens into a deep and slow moving stream.
Facebook / Delaware State Government
Enjoy the view as the creek meanders through forested wetlands into an open marsh. After about 1.5 miles in fairly open water, Prime Hook Creek starts to wind into a narrower stream.
Facebook / Prime Hook NWR, Mary Lou Wuest Pavlovec
Two miles downstream from the narrowing of the creek, youll find yourself at Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. You can dock near the visitors center if you want to explore the park on foot.
Flickr / Shell Game
Whether you paddle Prime Hook or stroll the refuge, keep an eye out for rare birds such as Ospreys, Eagles and more. These migratory birds make Prime Hook their home.
Flickr / Shell Game

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Other wildlife is plentiful. Small songbirds and shorebirds, butterflies, snakes, lizards and foxes are frequently seen in and around the refuge.
Flickr / Michele Dorsey Walfred
Before your day is up, launch back into Prime Hook Creek and head out to catch a sunset.
Flickr / USFWS Northeast
I truly believe that there is no better place to catch a Delaware sunset than out on the water, and if you paddle Prime Hook creek, you'll be taken to the most beautiful sunset spot in the state.
Flickr / James O'Guinn
This little slice of paradise is one of the most breathtaking places in Delaware.
Flickr / Michele Dorsey Walfred
And all you need to explore it is a canoe or kayak, and some good company.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie

Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most important places in Delaware for birds and wildlife of all types. It truly is a wonder, hiding right here in the First State! To learn more about Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge, read The Hidden Park That Will Make You Feel Like You’ve Discovered Delaware’s Best Kept Secret.

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