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Michael N. Castle Trail C&D Canal Trail

  • gar62022
  • Oct 9
  • 2 min read

Why It’s Worth the Trip

  • It’s so close — just a short drive from Middletown, Odessa, or Townsend.

  • The trail is paved, mostly flat, and very versatile for different kinds of users.

  • The views — over the canal, under bridges, across wetland marshes — are lovely, especially at sunrise or golden hour.

  • You get both nature and local flavor (hello, ice cream stop!).

  • And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can continue past the state line into Maryland for more miles.

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A Scenic Escape Just Around the Corner

The Michael N. Castle Trail follows the north bank of the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal in northern Delaware, running about 12.4 miles in the Delaware segment. TrailLink+2walkrideusa.com At its east end, it meets up with the trail system around Delaware City, and on the west end it links with the Ben Cardin C&D Canal Recreational Trail at the Delaware–Maryland state line. From there, the trail continues deeper into Maryland toward quaint Chesapeake City.

Because the trail is paved and mostly flat, it’s very friendly to all kinds of users — families, casual walkers, serious runners, or bikers wanting to stretch their legs. The only real “hump” is around the Summit North Marina area, where the trail veers a little inland and gains a bit of elevation.

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Where to Start & Stop Along the Way

If you’re coming from Middletown, Odessa, or Townsend, you can reach the trail in a matter of minutes.

Some popular trailheads and parking spots include:

  • South Lums Trailhead on Old Summit Road

  • St. Georges Trailhead near US-13 / S Dupont Highway

  • Biddle Point / Cox Neck Road access points

From any of these starting points, you can pick how far you want to go — whether that's an easy out-and-back or a full-length ride across state lines.


Fun & Flavor: Ice Cream at St. Georges

When you’re ready for a rest and a cool treat, swing by The Creamery at St. Georges. This ice cream shop sits just off the trail along the canal and is a favorite spot to stop, rest, and cool off with a scoop, shake, or snack. Locals and visitors alike praise its riverside view, friendly vibe, and homemade-feel flavors. Be sure to check their facebook page for their current hours. https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Creamery-at-StGeorges-100067298181482/

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Life On the Trail: People, Nature & Vibe

One of the best things about the Castle Trail is how vibrant it feels. On any given day you’ll share the path with:

  • Walkers enjoying a leisurely stroll

  • Runners training with the view of water

  • Cyclists exploring longer stretches

  • People pausing on benches to watch boats pass through the canal

You’ll see bridge crossings, the hum of canal traffic, stretches of marsh and wildflowers, and maybe even wildlife like herons, ducks, or the occasional raptor overhead.


It really is a beautiful place and the perfect way to get some steps (or cycles) in!

 
 
 

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