Have you hiked the Jack A. Markell Trail yet? It’s “not exactly” a new trail, however it may be new to you. The JAM, as the trail calls itself, was officially opened on September 22, 2018. So, it is pretty young as far as trails go.
Perhaps the biggest pro for the creation of the trail is that it allows pedestrians and cyclists to get from Wilmington to New Castle safely and in much less time. The Trail is 7.9 miles long from end to end and is paved most of the way to accommodate cyclists. Named after former Governor Jack A. Markell for his contributions to the Delaware cycling community. It fills a critical link of the East Coast Greenway; a system of routes that connect Maine to Florida via on and off-road paths. If you want more information, visit East Coast Greenway Alliance.
Some of you might know that if you travel around northern Delaware, you will see that the scenery changes every 10 to 15 minutes. The Jack A. Markell Trail is no different. At one end, you have the Wilmington Riverfront and the Christina River. It is a modern place that is becoming more upscale as part of its revitalization. At the other end, you have the New Castle Historic District, a glimpse into what life in 1700’s Delaware was like, and the Delaware River. Already without leaving the ends of the trail, you have 2 very different cities and 2 very different views. The trail will take you through woods, past a neighborhood and under 2 highways, then safely next to a women’s work release center and a massive social services complex. You’ll also pass through a marsh and cross over the Christina River via the Jack A. Markell Bridge which is the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in Delaware.
There are two important places on the trail I want to mention, the DuPont Environmental Education Center (DEEC), and the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge. The DEEC is located just south of the Wilmington Riverfront on the northeast corner of the refuge and is the point where the city, river, and marsh meet. It has a visitor center, the views from the balcony on the top floor of the building are very nice, a 10-acre ornamental garden that is stunning and peaceful, and has direct parking access to the Jack A. Markell Trail. It is also free and open to the public year-round. The Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge has some of the nicest and most serene trails I have ever been on. The entrance to the trails is halfway between the Jack A. Markell Bridge and the start of the boardwalk that takes you to the Riverfront. Here you can see a variety of wildlife, such as deer, bald eagles, otters, and herons.
Every time I go here for a walk or for business, I enjoy it. There is so much to see and take in, no matter where you are on the trail. It is perfect pretty much year-round if the weather is nice, and the wind isn’t too strong. I highly suggest going and taking a bike or skateboard and cruising through the whole trail. If that isn’t your thing, that’s fine, take a nice casual stroll and just get some fresh air and enjoy the scenery.