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5 Spots to go Leaf Peeping in the Brandywine Valley

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Brandywine Creek State Park

The du Pont family originally owned parts of this 933-acre park. Brandywine Creek State Park is sectioned off by stone walls, built when the park was a dairy farm in the 1880s. Declared a state park in 1965, Brandywine Creek State Park now hosts Delaware’s first two nature preserves—Tulip Tree Woods and Freshwater Marsh. The trails run for 14 miles and are perfect for observing wildlife. The park also hosts a number of seasonal events, including the Halloween Haunted Trail. 

41 Adams Dam Road, Wilmington, Del.

 

Lums Pond State Park

Surrounding the biggest freshwater pond in Delaware, Lums Pond State Park is full of both land and aquatic adventure. Watch the multi-colored leaves zoom past as you fly by on a zip line or Tarzan swing. If staying grounded is more your style, check out the hiking trails or consider renting a boat for great nature views.

1068 Howell School Road, Bear, Del.

 

Ridley Creek State Park

Ridley Creek State Park offers visitors an all-encompassing outdoor experience. Walk or bike through thousands of acres of meadows and woodlands, go horseback riding on the trails, and keep an eye out for wildlife. Be sure to visit the mansion, too.

1023 Sycamore Mills Road, Media, Pa.

 

Rocky Run at Wawa Preserve

Once a cattle grazing farm for Wawa, Rocky Run is now a scenic, hiker-friendly preserve. Dense forests surround the creek, and a number of trails run through the woodlands. Admirers of fall foliage will not be disappointed by the leafy bursts of orange, red and yellow. Hikes are 3-6 miles in length, and the preserve houses a number of different wildlife habitats.

Wawa Preserve, Valley Road, Media, Pa.

 

White Clay Creek State Park

This park is the ideal day-trip destination. With 37 miles of trails, visitors can return time and again to explore different parts. Trails range from easy to moderate and allow for hikers of all skill levels. White Clay Creek State Park also hosts many public programs throughout the year.

750 Thompson Station Road, Newark, Del.