Brandywine Creek State Park north of Wilmington protects one of Delaware's last stands of old-growth tulip poplar and oak forest, and the trail network here is far more varied and rewarding than Delaware's flat reputation would suggest. The park's 14 miles of trails range from riverside paths along Brandywine Creek to ridge-top routes through the forest canopy, with a few modest climbs to overlooks above the valley. The Hidden Pond Trail (1.5 miles) and the Tulip Tree Trail (1.2 miles) are particular highlights, the latter passing through trees 190 years old and over 100 feet tall.

The Northern Delaware Greenway connects Brandywine Creek State Park south toward Alapocas Run and ultimately to Wilmington's waterfront — making it possible to piece together a 7-mile one-way ramble through Delaware's finest natural corridor with a shuttle or via the Wilmington trail network. The creek sections offer great bird-watching; the park hosts nesting great blue herons and resident bald eagles. Spring brings Virginia bluebells and trout lilies in spectacular carpets along the creek floodplain.

Parking at the state park requires a Delaware State Park pass ($4/day for non-residents). Dogs are welcome on leash. The trails are generally passable year-round; the riverside sections flood briefly after heavy rain. No permit required.