Located on Rehoboth Bay, Burton's Island offers an easily accessible hike from the large parking lot off Route 1. The 1.5-mile hike affords expansive views of three different habitats: inland bays, salt marsh and upland forest.

Short cedars and marsh grass mark the beginning of the trail along with a view of an osprey nesting platform. These birds are identified by their large size and crook in the wings. Several boardwalks ease the trip over wetlands. Linger along the boardwalks looking for muskrats or at the very least, their tracks. You're likely to spot the funny little fiddler crab. Notice how they scoot into a mud hole with claw waving. In addition, blue herons and egrets are frequently spotted in the marshland flats in search of food. The boardwalk ends spilling you out onto a soft upland trail. Within a short distance, a spur trail intersects offering more panoramic marshland views. Back on the main trail, it weaves through woods and wetlands coming to a picnic table overlooking Indian River Bay. Here you can enjoy more birdlife and soak up pleasant breezes off the bay. The trail follows the bay's edge weaving back into the woods, crossing another boardwalk and eventually backs to the trailhead. Binoculars, drinking water, and bug repellent are suggested during the warmer months.

Directions: From Dewey Beach, DE, Travel south along State Route 1 about 5-6 miles turning right on Inlet Road. Travel to the end where a parking lot marks the trail's beginning.

Elevation: Sea Level

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Difficulty: Easy

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