Autumn Leaves
Every season has its charms—spring’s flowers, summer’s sun,
winter’s snow—but for me there is nothing that surpasses the beauty
and majesty of autumn’s changing leaves. Everywhere you look, once
familiar landscapes erupt in brilliant explosions of crimson, orange and
yellow. It’s almost as if Mother Nature is making a last desperate
attempt to get our attention before succumbing to the cold winter months.
Whatever the reason, this awesome display is not to be missed. One of my
favorite fall pastimes is to hit the trails in our parks. Whether on foot
or on bike, there is no better way to escape the demands of the workweek.
There’s something inspirational about being in such beautiful
surroundings. The grandeur of the natural surroundings has a way of
putting life in better perspective for me. I always come home from such an
outing feeling invigorated, refreshed and better able to face daily
challenges.
Enjoying Life
Autumn has already settled into a comfortable and more leisurely
pattern for my partner, Bob, and me. After the hectic summer months, it is
fun to kick back and enjoy the many events scheduled in the resort area.
From sidewalk sales to the Jazz Festival, Sea Witch to the Film Fest,
there’s always something to do. Each event is unique and has become an
important part of life at the beach. The challenge is finding the time to
get to them all!
This past weekend was especially important to me. Bob and I celebrated
our 4th Anniversary! It’s hard to believe four years could go by so
quickly. Where does the time go? I just know that I am incredibly lucky to
have such a wonderful partner. He has made my life richer and more special
in every way. He encourages me to try new things and to be more open to
life’s possibilities. I often joke that through his love of travel, he
has "given me the world." The truth of the matter is, he has
given me so much more.
Hurricane Isabel—Blowing in the Wind
You couldn’t live in the mid-Atlantic region and not in some way
have been affected by Hurricane Isabel. The mid-September storm kept
everyone on their toes for days wondering if this was going to be
"THE STORM" that would batter the Delmarva coast. Park staff
throughout our system spent days securing property in preparation. In the
resort area, equipment and vehicles were moved inland to get them away
from potential flooding. After days of frantic preparations, everyone
breathed a tremendous sigh of relief when the state was spared a direct
hit from the storm. While we did not receive a direct "hit," the
high winds and heavy rains still caused tremendous damage throughout
Delaware. Surprisingly, the coastal areas seemed to have the least amount
of damage.
While coastal flooding caused minor erosion, all in all the beaches
made out very well.
The real damage
occurred inland, especially in the more northern and western areas of the
state. Northern Delaware was especially vulnerable due to torrential rains
that had drenched the area just days before Isabel arrived. The already
waterlogged soils were no match for the hurricane force winds. Huge trees
toppled in many areas damaging property and taking out power lines. An
assessment of park property revealed close to $100,000 in damages. If you
factor in staff time for clean up, as well as lost revenues from day use
and camping, this Hurricane has had a significant impact on our Division.
Although our staff will be working hard in the upcoming weeks to cleanup
after the storm, we count ourselves very fortunate the damage was not
worse!
Junction and Breakwater Trail
After years of planning and development, the first phase of
construction on the highly anticipated "Junction and Breakwater
Trail" is nearly completed and is expected to be open to the public
in November. Located in Cape Henlopen State Park on the west-side of the
Lewes-Rehoboth Canal, the trail will eventually serve as a pedestrian and
bicycle connection between the two resort communities. Current
construction has created a 3.5 mile trail that goes from West Rehoboth
northward past Wolfe Neck Road. For easy public access, the project
includes a 56-car parking facility constructed adjacent to the historic
Wolfe House. The trail offers exceptional views across tidal marshes and
upland forests in the coastal area. It’s a facility you will not want to
miss!
Trail Challenge Program
Looking for a change of pace and a fun way to get physically fit? Why
not take the Delaware State Parks "Trail Challenge?" Hike 15
designated trails in 10 parks within 12 months and earn our "Golden
Boot Award."
The Trail Challenge is something most everyone can do—young or old,
couch potato or fitness fanatic. It gives participants the incentive to
visit many state parks and the opportunity to enjoy some of Delaware’s
most spectacular scenic wonders. All of this, while taking part in an
activity that contributes to physical fitness. Did you know that hikers
can burn up to 600 calories per hour if they keep up a brisk pace? So, why
not take the "Challenge?" You could be one of the
"elite" group of people who have earned this unique award. For
information check our website or call the Cultural and Recreation Services
Section, 302-739-4413.
Nature’s Best Bets
If you’re looking for fun ways to spend your spare time, check out
the Seaside Nature Center at Cape Henlopen State Park. The Center is open
year round. During the fall and winter, it is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4
p.m. It will be closed October 20 through October 28, November 27 and 28,
December 25, 26 and 31, and January 1. The Center provides public programs
designed for individuals and families. A highlight of any visit is viewing
the five 1000-gallon aquariums that feature different aquatic habitats.
You’ll be glad you took the time to explore this exciting facility. Be
advised park entrance fees remain in effect daily through October 31.
Fifteenth Cape Henlopen Halloween Trails • Fantasy Trail: $3 per
person
Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25, 6 - 8 p.m. Sunday, October 26,
5 - 7 p.m.
Trail of Terror: $5/person • Fri., Oct. 24 and Sat., Oct. 25, 8:30
- 10 p.m.
Join us if you dare for these popular Halloween events. Bring the
children, dressed in their costumes, (to please the staff) and meet
fairytale characters along our jack-o-lantern illuminated Fantasy Trail.
Later, monsters, ghouls and frights take over the trail to scare even the
bravest of all.
Battery Tour • Sunday, November 9, 1 p.m.
During the summer of 1941, as war raged in Europe, the U.S. Army began
fortifying the dunes of Cape Henlopen to protect the Delaware Bay from
enemy invasion. Learn about the construction of Fort Miles and then tour
the first battery completed at the cape. Limited to 20. Pre-registration
is required. $3 per person.
Volunteer Trail Day • Saturday, November 2, 9 a.m. - Noon
Join the Friends of Cape Henlopen as they work to maintain the park’s
trails or take on some other light maintenance project.
For information on these and other park programs, contact the Seaside
Nature Center at 302-645-6852 or check out our website at www.destateparks.com.
Stephen Schilly is Park Operations Administrator for the Delaware
Division of Parks and Recreation. He may be reached at
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