The Delaware Bay Loop invites riders to a compelling blend of history, sea, and shifting landscapes across approximately 45 miles of varied terrain. This route threads along coastal roads and quieter backroads around the bay’s edge, connecting key historic forts with wind-whipped beaches and marshes where breezes seem to push you onward.

Starting near Fort Delaware State Park on Pea Patch Island, the tour immediately immerses you in stories of the Civil War era. The fort’s brick walls and cannon placements stand firm, guarding memories that make the bay’s edge fiercely tangible. Pedaling northward, the loop leads to Fort Mott State Park, where the imposing 19th-century earthworks stretch alongside tidal creeks daring you to explore their quiet strength.

The terrain balances coastal asphalt with stretches of packed gravel that hold steady beneath your tires, punctuated by gentle rolling hills that reward effort with panoramic water views. Expect around 600 feet of elevation gain—not mountainous, but enough to feel the wind engage with every push of the pedal.

The Delaware Bay doesn’t just surround you; it breathes into the ride. Salt air mingles with pine scents drifting from forest patches, while marsh grasses sway and challenge your senses to keep pace. Birdcalls punctuate the ride, white egrets dipping low and ospreys scanning the water in relentless focus.

Practical planning is part of the adventure. Hydration stations are sparse—bring at least two liters of water, more in summer heat. Footwear with firm grip and padded comfort will keep legs fresh through varying surfaces. Early morning or late afternoon rides avoid the harshest sun and capture shifting light on water and fort walls, perfect for pacing your day. Bikes with wider tires handle the gravel segments best, but hybrid cycles will manage comfortably.

Fuel up in nearby towns like Salem or Pennsville, where local diners serve sturdy meals and outlets welcome bike repairs or rentals. The loop is accessible from these hubs, allowing a flexible start and end point.

This ride isn’t about conquering nature, but about moving with it—facing the coastal winds that sculpt every turn, reading the water’s whispers, and honoring the forts that stand fiercely as reminders of the past. It’s a practical and invigorating journey for cyclists seeking history, scenic variety, and the steady call of the sea breeze.