If you’re not one of the millions who will be walking across the Ben Franklin Bridge to the Art Museum on September 26 to welcome Pope Francis, perhaps you’ll join us for an interesting day of low impact biking. Not a serious biker? That’s good because beach-cruisers are the preferred mode of transportation for this tour, a tour that is perfect for anyone interested in natural scenery, World War II history and local craft brews.
Meet up with Nature Center tour guides at 9:30 A.M. on Saturday, September 26th at the Cape May Lewes Ferry terminal. From there we’ll start our trip with a relaxing boat ride over to Lewes. Once on the “other” side, we’ll take in the sights and history as well as the flora and fauna of our sister cape, Cape Henlopen. Established as Fort Miles during WWII, this patch of sand was the most heavily defended piece of real estate in the United States with its huge 16” 12” and 8” guns protecting the entrance to the Delaware Bay. The history buffs among us will marvel at the bunkers, fortifications and spotting towers, one of which is open to the public.
From the Park, we’ll head south via the Gordon’s Pond Trail. This unique trail only opened in 2014 and it winds through six miles of tidal flats, sand dunes and the outskirts of Rehoboth Beach. Once in Rehoboth Beach we’ll discover the world famous Dogfish Brewery. After lunch and rehydration we’ll head out of town via the shady and secluded Junction & Breakwater “Rail-to-Trail” and peddle another 6 miles back to Lewes. As the First City of the First State, Lewes is a very popular biking destination thanks to its deep history, eclectic shopping and diverse restaurant experience. Finally, by 6:30 P.M. we’ll head over to the Lewes Ferry terminal and hitch a ride back home across the Bay.
Expect to cover approximately 25 miles throughout the day, but rest assured that this is a benign trip with frequent stops. Bring your own bike or bike rentals can be arranged. A wide brimmed hat, long sleeves, sun block, and water bottle are recommended. Pack refreshments and lunch, or bring money for our stops at the ferry terminals, breweries and local eateries.
Size of group will be limited to 25 bicyclists. Call the Nature Center of Cape May, 609-898-8848 for details and to preregister. The cost of your walk-on, round trip ferry ticket is included in your over-all cost of $40 for members ($60 for nonmembers).