Want to see changing leaves in Delaware? Here's where to road trip to see fall foliage

As fall arrives in Delaware, we know plenty of you are hoping to catch scenic views of changing leaves as autumnal colors take over the local landscape.

To help with that, we’ve got a list of spots to road trip to around the state brimming with fall foliage, and great whether you're driving through the area or adventuring on foot.

Where to see fall foliage in Delaware

Lums Pond State Park, near Glasgow

Lums Pond State Park is a 1,790-acre site near Glasgow that is home to the state’s largest freshwater pond.

They have many trails to traverse; a GoApe aerial ropes course that allows you to swing through trees; and water activities such as kayaking and canoeing, all of which can be used to view changing leaves.

The park also offers fall-themed hikes and other seasonal events like hayrides and bonfires.

Ashland Nature Center, near Hockessin

Ashland Nature Center is home to the Delaware Nature Society’s headquarters and has 130 acres of marsh, meadows, Red Clay Creek and woodlands.

The center is open year-round, has an overnight lodge and a picnic area, features 4 miles of pet-friendly nature trails and holds a variety of wildlife-viewing activities.

Trap Pond State Park, near Laurel

Trap Pond State Park’s pond and cypress swamp offer picture-worthy views year-round, but with the park’s mix of hardwood trees bursting with the reds, oranges and yellows of fall, it would be a shame to pass up on an opportunity to catch these amazing autumn views.

Don’t want to walk? The park’s Terrapin Branch Water Trail allows you to get close to the foliage via a canoe or kayak.

Trap Pond is home to the northern-most, naturally occurring stand of Baldcypress trees.

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, near Smyrna

Established in 1937, Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Smyrna is one of the largest remaining expanses of tidal salt marsh in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The site offers an auto tour of fall foliage with a glimpse of changing tidal marsh grasses, too.

As a refuge directly in the path of the Atlantic Flyway, a visit here also will grant you a sneak peek at migrating birds. Other wildlife on-site includes bald eagles, white-tailed deer and the northern diamondback terrapin.

Rockwood Park & Museum, near Wilmington

Rockwood Park near Wilmington is a 72-acre park featuring gardens, a picnic grove, paved trails connecting to the Northern Delaware Greenway, urban wildlife habitat and pet-friendly areas.

Fall foliage in the park is accented by paths providing views of Rockwood Mansion and “Edward’s Playhouse,” a ruin near a walking path.

Whether you explore Rockwood alone or bring a furry friend, you’re in for a couple of hours of history and fall fun.

Redden State Forest, near Georgetown

Near Georgetown, Redden State Forest has over 12,900 acres to explore filled with a mix of hardwood trees including oak trees, maple trees and gum trees.

With over 44 miles of trails, the forest features 18 tracts ideal for an afternoon spent hiking, a scenic bike ride, bird watching in the morning or a weekend of horseback riding.

Mt. Cuba Center, near Hockessin

Mt. Cuba Center is a botanical garden near Hockessin filled with a variety of nature opportunities.

Visitors can enjoy a scenic view of the Brandywine Valley, picnic on the lawn or in a cozy hideaway throughout the garden or enroll in fall photography stroll, among other offerings.

The center also is home to native plant gardens and provides classes on the conservation of native plants and their habitats.

Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge, near Milton

Prime Hook near Milton features marshes and wetlands that offer a unique fall foliage excursion.

The warm hues of falling leaves are set against the backdrop of a diverse ecosystem. The tranquil area boasts an untouched landscape that is perfect for foliage-seekers wanting a peaceful, immersive experience.

Aside from all the foliage, there’s plenty of wildlife to keep an eye out for, too.

Brandywine Creek State Park, near Wilmington

Brandywine Creek State Park features a mix of beech and oak trees that fade into a beautiful display of red, orange and gold leaves during the fall. With more than 14 miles of trails within northern Delaware’s piedmont region, visitors traversing through the park will be met with the views of a remnant old-growth forest.

The park also features historic structures, the Brandywine and plenty of scenic trails for a bit of fall foliage me-time.

Junction & Breakwater Trail, Lewes

The Junction & Breakwater Trail offers 7 miles of hiking from Lewes to Rehoboth.

Whether you walk the trail or bike it, there’s plenty of foliage and wildlife to observe among the hardwood and pine forests, coastal marshes and open fields.

Take a hike: Best, underrated hiking trails in Delaware to explore this fall

Aside from the nature views, both ends of the trail put you out in areas with many restaurants to explore in case you need a bite to refuel or want to celebrate the day with a craft beer.

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at kgriffin@delawareonline.com .

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Want to see changing leaves in Delaware? Here's where to road trip to see fall foliage