This Delaware Landscape Turns Into a Serene Frozen Wonderland During Winter

Delaware’s natural beauty is evident in each season, but there’s something so awe-inspiring about the landscape in the winter when ponds and streams have frozen and snow blankets the ground. While an icy day is ideal for cozying up by the fireplace, those of us who love a good adventure know it's also the perfect time for heading outdoors on a brisk winter hike in Delaware.  

Brave the cold for a winter hike along the Huckleberry and Bob Trail Loop, an easy 1.8-mile path at Trap Pond State Park in Laurel. If you’re not a fan of the cold, something of which I am guilty, you don’t have to worry about being outdoors too long. The trail usually takes little more than an hour to complete if you hike at a steady pace.

Bring your leashed pooch and the kiddos along, or set off on your own if you’re craving alone time. Either way, you might luck out and have the trail to yourself. Even in the warmer months, the Huckleberry and Bob Trail Loop tends to be quiet, although you may occasionally run into another hiker or horseback rider.

Often compared to a walk through the woods, the predominately flat trail has a slight elevation gain of 29 feet and the few obstacles, including bugs and spider webs, typically aren’t an issue during the winter. Parking is available near the trailhead, making it easy to get started on your hike, once you’ve bundled up and slipped on comfortable hiking shoes.

As you stroll through the woods and over a footbridge, keep an eye out for the unexpected, including headstones in a small cemetery. The trail, known for deer and fox sightings, is popular for birdwatching, and you might spot such feathery residents as woodpeckers, owls, and great blue herons.

If you’re not in a hurry, sit on one of the benches or claim a picnic table near Trap Pond and admire the frozen scenery that, once winter’s snow and ice melt, will give way to colorful wildflowers and lush greenery. Plan a return visit once the seasons change, and consider picnicking by the pond.

Find more information on the official website of Trap Pond State Park.

Do you have a favorite winter hike in Delaware? Tell us about it by nominating it, and then start planning to explore more of Laurel, the friendliest small town in Delaware. If you’re planning to hike more while you're in Laurel, download AllTrails+ for a list of local trails. And if you're loving your Delaware adventures and want to discover something new, try our Travel Planner!