The purpose of the Brandywine Trail is to help protect water quality, safeguard historic and cultural resources, improve air quality, maintain plant and animal biodiversity, sustain and enhance Delaware's scenic beauty, and provide space for recreation and active transportation. The trail serves many people in the greater Wilmington area, giving residents in nearby neighborhoods easy access to park land.

Trail stewards serve an important role in maintaining the Brandywine Trail. The trail stewards are the eyes-and-ears for the trail managers. They assist trail users with directions and advice, promote use of the trail, report trail conditions, and assess visitor needs and safety concerns. All trail stewards are volunteers and they choose their own time to perform their service. In return they receive an identification badge, gear, and free entrance into all Delaware State Parks.

This trail is wide on a gentle grade with a crushed stone surface. Trail users can catch glimpses of the Brandywine River, view unique geologic features, experience Piedmont wooded landscapes, spring wildflowers, and wildlife. The trail passes under Thompsons Bridge Road and continues north eventually onto lands owned by the First State National Monument. Aside from hiking, trail users can experience picnicking, fishing and canoeing along the Brandywine Creek.