As Delaware State Parks celebrate 75 years of conservation, recreation, and outdoor adventure, we’re spotlighting the individual parks that make the First State such a remarkable place to explore. 

Next up, Auburn Valley State Park, a hidden gem in northern Delaware where industrial history meets scenic beauty. Nestled along the Red Clay Creek in Yorklyn — just minutes from Wilmington and the Pennsylvania border — the park blends preserved mills, estate grounds, and multi-use trails into one walkable, bikeable landscape. Whether you’re planning a weekend hike, a bike ride along the creek, or a day exploring vintage steam cars, Auburn Valley offers a little bit of everything. 

A Park Built on Industry & Innovation 

Auburn Valley State Park is comprised of lands once held by the Marshall family — pioneers of paper milling and vulcanized fiber manufacturing and among Delaware’s most influential 19th-century industrialists. Their legacy helped shape the Red Clay Valley and America’s early manufacturing history. 

Today, the park includes: 

  • The Marshall family’s Queen Anne-style home and estate grounds 
  • The historic Marshall Brothers Paper Mill 
  • The National Vulcanized Fiber plant (Closed. Planned for future park growth.)
  • The Marshall Steam Museum, home to one of the largest operating collections of Stanley steam cars in the country 
  • Nearby Oversee Farm, reflecting the area’s agricultural roots 

Formerly known as Auburn Heights Preserve, the property officially joined the Delaware State Parks system in 2018 — opening a new chapter that balances preservation, recreation, and public access.

Hiking at Auburn Valley State Park  

Looking for hiking near Wilmington, Delaware? Auburn Valley State Park offers a mix of paved, crushed stone, and packed earth trails that wind through rolling fields, historic industrial sites, and along the scenic Red Clay Creek. 

Auburn Valley TrailAuburn Valley Trail  

Length: 1.3 miles 
Type: Paved (shared-use) 
Difficulty: Moderate 
Trailhead: Farm Lane (off Benge Road) 

 

 


This wide, paved trail runs between the Red Clay Creek and the Delaware–Pennsylvania state line, offering sweeping valley views and pastoral scenery. It’s also open to historic steam cars during special events — a rare glimpse of the park’s past in motion.  Note: The trail crosses a private access road. Use caution at crossings.   

Oversee TrailOversee Farm Trail 

Length: 1.2 miles 
Type: Packed earth 
Difficulty: Moderate 
Trailhead: Snuff Mill Road parking lot 

 

 


This figure-eight loop features gentle slopes and overlooks the Red Clay Valley. Hikers pass a beautiful stone farmhouse and barn dating back to circa 1800. The wide trail makes it approachable for beginners while still offering engaging terrain. 

Yorklyn Bridge TrailYorklyn Bridge Trail 

Length: 0.7 miles 
Type: Packed earth 
Difficulty: Easy 
Trailhead: Benge Road parking lot (near Marshall Family Bridge) 

 

 

This short but story-rich trail loops through historic industrial Yorklyn. Highlights include a 19th-century truss bridge, remnants of the National Vulcanized Fiber site, the Garrett Snuff Mills, and the former Yorklyn school — now the Center for the Creative Arts. Amenities include a pavilion and picnic tables, making it ideal for families. 

Trolley TrailTrolley Trail  

Length: 0.5 miles 
Type: Crushed stone 
Difficulty: Easy 
Trailhead: Benge Road parking area 

 

 


Named for an early 20th-century trolley right-of-way, this short loop follows the Auburn Mill millrace before descending into a meadow along the Red Clay Creek. It accommodates both hikers and bicyclists and is perfect for beginners. 

Which Trail Should You Choose? 

  • Best for Creek Views: Auburn Valley Trail 
  • Best for Historic Scenery: Yorklyn Bridge Trail 
  • Best Moderate Loop: Oversee Farm Trail 
  • Best for Families or Beginners: Trolley Trail 
  • Best for Biking: Auburn Valley Trail and Trolley Trail 

Together, these routes make Auburn Valley State Park one of the most versatile hiking destinations in northern Delaware. 

Outdoor Fun for Families 

Beyond hiking, Auburn Valley offers wide-open spaces perfect for picnicking, kite flying, and casual exploration. 

Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy: 

  • Steam car demonstrations 
  • Community events 
  • Educational programming 
  • Seasonal outdoor activities 

Its blend of history and recreation makes it especially appealing for multigenerational outings. 

Why Auburn Valley State Park Is Worth the Visit 

Unlike state parks that focus solely on beaches or forests, Auburn Valley stands out for its combination of:  

  • Industrial heritage 
  • Scenic waterways 
  • Accessible trail systems 
  • Unique museum experiences 
  • Proximity to Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley 

It’s ideal for visitors looking to pair outdoor recreation with cultural discovery — all within a compact, easy-to-navigate setting. 

Planning Your Visit 

Location: Yorklyn, Delaware 
Best For: Hiking, biking, history lovers, family outings 
Nearby Attractions: Wilmington, Hockessin, Brandywine Valley 

The park is open year-round, with seasonal programming and museum hours varying throughout the year. For travelers planning a Delaware weekend getaway or locals rediscovering the outdoors, Auburn Valley State Park offers a peaceful escape just minutes from the city. 

Auburn Valley State Park FAQs 

Where is Auburn Valley State Park located? 

Auburn Valley State Park is located in Yorklyn, Delaware, near Wilmington and the Pennsylvania border. 

What can you do at Auburn Valley State Park? 

Visitors can hike and bike along the Red Clay Creek, explore historic mills, visit the Marshall Steam Museum, and attend seasonal events. 

Is Auburn Valley State Park family-friendly? 

Yes. The park offers accessible trails, open picnic areas, and educational programming suitable for families. 

How long are the trails at Auburn Valley State Park? 

Trail lengths range from 0.5 to 1.3 miles within the park, with connections to the larger Red Clay Valley trail system. 

A Legacy 75 Years in the Making  

As Delaware State Parks mark their 75th anniversary, Auburn Valley State Park reflects the spirit of the system — preserving history while creating space for today’s adventures. From steam cars and stone farmhouses to paved trails and peaceful creek views, it’s a park that invites visitors to slow down, explore, and return. 

For more on this historic year, visit: https://www.destateparks.com/75-years/  

Stay tuned as we continue our Delaware State Park Spotlight Series.