Do you know there’s an enchanting, historic abandoned mill town just outside of Wilmington? Travel 10 miles from the city and you’ll find yourself surrounded by abandoned buildings and a winding trail that showcases New Castle County’s industrial history. Take a trip back in time when you visit Yorklyn Mills.
Just outside of Wilmington, Yorklyn is a tiny mill town that dates back to the 1700s. For years, it was a tobacco mill, grist mill, and a fiber mill, and for 200 years it was a vibrant manufacturing town.
AllTrails / Shangua Chi
As the years wore on, the mills closed, one by one. Finally, in 2008, Yorklyn’s milling industry was closed for good.
AllTrails / Sherry Martinez
The area isn’t completely abandoned, though - thanks to local preservation efforts, there are pathways and trails that showcase the historic buildings.
AllTrails / Shangua Chi
The Yorklyn Bridge Trail is the most popular and easily-accessible trail through the Yorklyn Mills area. This mile-and-a-half loop trail showcases nature and decaying industry intertwined.
AllTrails / David Boyer
It even seems like the earth is reclaiming some of these buildings and structures, and as the years pass by, they become as much a part of the landscape as the trees, weeds, and grasses.
AllTrails / Sherry Martinez
Take a short hike along a gorgeous and desolate trail to encounter Delaware history and natural beauty all at once. Yorklyn is such an escape from busy city life, you’ll feel like you were completely transported!
AllTrails / William Hughes
Visit the Yorklyn Bridge Trail’s page on AllTrails for more information on Yorklyn Mills and the trail itself.
AllTrails / Shangua Chi
AllTrails / Sherry Martinez
AllTrails / David Boyer
AllTrails / William Hughes
Be aware that the mills are posted “No Trespassing” properties, so enjoy your view from the designated trails. As always, be careful near abandoned property!
For more of the coolest abandoned places in the First State, read 5 Abandoned Forts In Delaware That Hold Historic Keys To The Past.
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Address: Yorklyn Mills, 153 Gun Club Rd, Hockessin, DE 19707, USA
