The Preserve Loop is an enjoyable and easy walk 2-mile walk. Options of entering Pennsylvania's segment of the preserve afford a longer hike. Begin the hike across the dirt entrance road by the nature center's parking area. In summer, hikers will immediately encounter cooler temperatures created by the lush shade of Delaware's most common trees: poplars, sycamores, maples and oaks. Birdsong from a variety of woodpeckers and warblers greet the hiker as they venture into the young woodland where White Clay Creek parallels nearly half the hike and longer if continued into Pennsylvania. Open fields are graced with a succession of wildflowers throughout the warmer months. Bees, butterflies, and small wildflowers add enjoyment for the nature lover. Most commonly spotted in the forest or field is the lovely trillium, wood violet, trout lily, Queen Anne's lace, and goldenrod. Where the park property meets the state line of Pennsylvania, hikers choosing to stay on the park's path should bear left on the wide path blazed by a white arrow. Note that the trail travels over Chambers Rock Road twice.

Directions: From Newark, DE, Take State Route 896 north almost 3 miles turning right (east) onto Hopkins Road. Travel another mile to the park entrance. The park road takes you to the nature center in less than half mile. Trailhead is located across the road from the nature center parking lot.

Elevation: 500 feet

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Difficulty: Easy

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