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Summer Fun for Everyone
For most
people, Memorial Day Weekend marks the “official” start of the
summer season. The population of Delaware’s resorts swells to the
breaking point in one long weekend of enthusiastic revelry. For locals,
this is a warning of the hectic, congested summer months to come. We are
reminded of what “summer in the resorts” really means…sun, fun,
crowds and chaos! Of course, following Memorial Day, the area returns to
its relatively peaceful nature. For a few short weeks, we are lulled by
smaller, more manageable crowds. Well, get ready…the real “SUMMER”
is finally here!
Throughout
the Delaware state park system and especially at the beach parks, we
have been busy handling the “fallout” from the holiday weekend. The
renovation of the Gordons Pond parking lot continues, but the facility
is now open daily to users. Seasonal staff are now on board, trained and
ready to serve the needs of our park visitors.
At home,
things also have settled into a comfortable pattern. My partner Bob and
I are still putting the finishing touches on our house. He recently
surprised me by venturing into the “far reaches” of our half-acre
wooded lot to help me blaze a trail for the next phase of landscaping.
This was no small feat since Bob’s urban upbringing had previously
caused him to consider the woods “off limits.” The fact that he
didn’t encounter any snakes or other unwanted creatures must have
bolstered his courage. Several weeks later, on his own, he created a
“secret garden” for me at the end of our new trail. This was
unprecedented behavior!
Bob also
decided to make an effort to be more health conscious. Along with our
neighbor Brenda, he has started to hike the boardwalk…two miles every
day! A person who previously slept daily until 11 a.m. is now getting up
faithfully at 7 a.m. to exercise…amazing! The walks have actually
become something of a “social event,” with various neighbors joining
Bob and Brenda on their morning jaunts. It can be very comical to see
the group cram themselves into Bob’s jeep for the trip to the
boardwalk. Of course, an important part of the ritual is a stop at
Lori’s Café for coffee and toast. Frequently, the break takes longer
than the entire walk! I’ve joined them on many weekends and I think
they’ve hit on a great idea…fresh air and exercise in a beautiful
setting, great fellowship with friends and neighbors, and the reward of
the leisurely coffee break. What could be better?
Of
course, whenever I join the walks, state park issues are a frequent
topic of conversation. On a recent expedition, our neighbor Greg wanted
to know if the new legislation banning smoking in public buildings would
have any effect on the state parks. The law does not address smoking in
the out-of-doors and the Division of Parks and Recreation has no policy
or regulation that prohibits the activity. However, we are launching a
public education campaign to reduce litter on the beaches from cigarette
butts and remind smokers to be respectful of other park visitors. Signs
will soon be posted at many beach access points warning smokers that
they run the risk of being fined if they use beach sand as an ashtray.
I’m sure this topic will generate more comments-both pro and con-in
the future.
Last
weekend I decided a change of pace was in order for the walking group.
Following the break at Lori’s Café, I “hijacked” them and took
them to Cape Henlopen State Park’s Gordons Pond area to experience the
three-quarter mile hike to the observation platform overlooking the
pond. Everyone was amazed at the quality of the trail and the incredible
beauty of the pond and marsh. I was especially pleased that they wanted
to plan future visits to the area, as well as trying other park sites.
In addition to hiking, there was even discussion of “dusting off”
old bikes to travel longer, more challenging trails in the park. My
mission was complete!
Many
people never take the time to discover the wide array of activities
available in the parks. This is especially true of the coastal parks
where the majority of visitors never make it beyond the beautiful
beaches. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying the sand and surf,
there are many wonderful opportunities awaiting the adventuresome
visitor. Some examples at Cape Henlopen State Park include:
Gordons
Pond Trail. This hidden gem is located off the northwest corner of the
parking area. It is a multi-use, accessible trail that hugs the
perimeter of the large freshwater pond. Beautiful vistas greet hikers
and bikers at the wildlife observation platform. It is well worth the
effort!
Main
Park Multi-Use Trails. 4.9 miles of paved trails encircle the park,
taking hikers, bicyclists and rollerbladers past incredible vistas and
fascinating coastal habitats. Enjoy scenic overlooks from the highest
points along the Delaware coast.
Park
Pedalers Program. You can enjoy the multi-use trails around the park on
bikes borrowed from the Seaside Nature Center. They are available from 9
a.m. to 3 p.m., first come-first served for up to two hours merely by
leaving a driver’s license as a guarantee. Bikes are suitable for ages
11 years or older.
Disc
Golf. An 18-hole course awaits players of all ages; bring your own discs
or “Frisbees.” The goal is to tee off from designated pads and take
the fewest throws to land your disc in metal baskets. Great fun for all
ages and skill levels!
Delaware
Breakwater Kayak Trip. One of the most exciting of Cape Henlopen’s
adventures is the naturalist-led kayak trip around the Delaware
breakwater and Lewes harbor that launches at 10 a.m. each Wednesday
through Sunday at the park’s fishing pier. Participants, who must be
at least 16, will receive basic instruction before heading out for two
hours of paddling. These trips are designed for beginners but can be
strenuous depending on water and wind conditions. All equipment is
provided. The expeditions are $25 per person and pre-registration is
required by contacting the Seaside Nature Center at 302-645-6852. Bring
plenty of drinking water and be prepared to get wet.
So,
there you have it…lots of new and exciting activities to enjoy over
the summer months. Whatever you choose, have fun but remember to play
safe! Best wishes for a wonderful July 4th!
For
information about park programs and activities, visit www.destateparks.com.
And if you have any questions or suggestions for future topics, e-mail
me at stephen.schilly@state.de.us.
Or look for me at the beach!
Stephen Schilly is Park
Operations Administrator Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation.
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