[1] It partially follows the former Junction and Breakwater Railroad's Rehoboth Beach branch that opened in the mid-19th century.

It later came under control of the Pennsylvania Railroad and transported passengers to several Methodist resort camps along the Atlantic coast.

The first 3.6 miles (5.8 km) of the trail was opened in December 2003 after acquiring parcels and easements from private landowners.

On June 4, 2007, an additional 2.4 miles (3.9 km) were added, extending the trail to Kings Highway in Lewes.

[3] The trail includes two bridges, including an 80-foot (24 m) long railroad bridge originally built in 1913 that crosses Holland Glade and provides views of coastal wetlands and of a World War II observation tower located on the coast.