Charles W. Cullen Bridge – Prickly Pear Trail loop from Bethany Beach
Charles W. Cullen Bridge – Prickly Pear Trail loop from Bethany Beach
4.5
(7011)
7,012
riders
Charles W. Cullen Bridge – Prickly Pear Trail loop from Bethany Beach
01:32
24.7km
20m
Cycling
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Assawoman Canal
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
4.60 km
Delaware Seashore State Park Fresh Pond
Nature Reserve
9.58 km
Charles W. Cullen Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
9.82 km
Coastal Road View of Indian River Bay
Highlight • Viewpoint
16.7 km
Prickly Pear Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
17.2 km
Beach Cove
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
20.6 km
Fred Hudson Road Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
24.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
11.2 km
8.28 km
2.02 km
1.94 km
1.08 km
110 m
Surfaces
12.3 km
5.29 km
3.51 km
3.45 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 17 June
27°C
18°C
38 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a touring cycling route that offers both iconic coastal views and a taste of natural Delaware landscapes, the Charles W. Cullen Bridge – Prickly Pear Trail loop from Bethany Beach delivers. This easy 15.3-mile (24.7 km) route, with a minimal 77 feet (24 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 32 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed outing with varied scenery. It's ideal for touring cyclists seeking a blend of smooth pavement and some adventurous mixed-surface riding near Bethany Beach, Delaware.
What to expect on Charles W. Cullen Bridge – Prickly Pear Trail loop from Bethany Beach
The journey begins with the impressive Charles W. Cullen Bridge, offering panoramic views of the ocean and Indian River Bay from its dedicated multi-use pathway. This smooth, paved section is a highlight, especially during sunrise or sunset. Once you transition to the Prickly Pear Trail, the scenery shifts dramatically. You'll wind through maritime forests, protected marshlands, and open meadows, with glimpses of Beach Cove. Be prepared for a change in surface here; while parts are crushed stone or packed dirt, the western stretch can feature a challenging sand base. This mixed terrain elevates the difficulty slightly from easy to moderate in sections, especially if you're on a road bike, but it's a rewarding experience for those who enjoy a bit of off-road adventure and wildlife spotting.
Planning your visit
This loop is generally accessible, but keep in mind the varying surfaces of the Prickly Pear Trail when choosing your bike. While the Charles W. Cullen Bridge is always smooth, the sandy sections of the Prickly Pear Trail might be less enjoyable on a road bike. Parking is available near the trailhead, but be aware that Delaware Seashore State Park may have parking fees, so check ahead. For the best experience, consider riding during cooler parts of the day or season, as the shaded forest sections offer a welcome retreat on warmer days, and the bridge views are spectacular in the soft light of morning or evening.
Trail details
- Distance: 15.3 miles (24.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 77 feet (24 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 32 minutes
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