12-14 miles, a mix of inland trails and beach walking. Meet at the Seaside Nature Center (38.784016, -75.0982107), not far from the park entrance, ready to begin hiking at 10 a.m. It is roughly a two-hour drive from Delaware County.
Why go to the beach in February? Because Henlopen's "The Point" that juts out between the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay will soon be closed for nesting birds. Look for horseshoe crabs on the bay side, as we walk the sandy shoreline for half of the hike, turning inland at Gordon's Pond for a mix of open, forested, and boardwalk walking above the dunes. Tide will be going out as we hike. Depending on wind direction, we may do this hike either clockwise or counterclockwise. Have sturdy footwear, bring lunch and water. Cost: $1.00. Please have a face mask in your pocket for when social distancing is challenging. RSVP required at https://www.meetup.com/Batona-Hiking-Club/ or by contacting the leader. Limit 15 participants, including Leader. Leader: Gary Sawyer, 484-478-2607, muddyboots@comcast.net.
