Looking to get out and enjoy the great outdoors? Take a trip to the Delaware Water Gap in PA! This 70,000-acre recreation area is located along the middle section of the Delaware River in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. It’s comprised of forested mountains, tumbling water, and beautiful rhododendron ravines. These are all in addition to the spectacular Delaware Water Gap itself. This distinct notch cut into the Kittatinny Ridge was once touted as a scenic Wonder of the World!
Visitors to the park can explore miles of hiking trails, kayak down the river, admire spectacular wildlife species, and much more. No matter which activity you choose, we promise your trip to the Delaware Water Gap in PA will be one you’ll never forget! Here are some of our favorite things to do there.
Spend a Day at the Delaware Water Gap in PA
1. Hiking
With over 100 miles of hiking trails open year-round, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has something for everyone. Routes range from easy to difficult and offer fantastic scenery during each season. Admire the sparkling snow-covered trees in the winter, or take in the sweet scent of wildflowers in the spring. Hikers can even follow the trails to beautiful waterfalls and cascades in the summer. Autumn is a particularly beautiful time of year, when the air is crisp and the leaves burst with color. Be sure to bring your camera!
2. Water Sports
Surrounded by the park’s gorgeous rural landscape, the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River offers some of the best water recreation in the northeast United States. This 40-mile section of the Delaware River has quiet pools and small sections of rapid current. It’s ideal for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and tubing! Feel free to bring your own equipment or contact a canoe livery in the area. They’ll provide you with everything you need for a day of fun on the water.
3. Wildlife Viewing
One of the best ways to enjoy the Delaware Water Gap in PA is to simply sit back and admire what’s around you. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems that provide a habitat for many surprising plant and animal species. You may encounter black bear, timber rattlesnakes, or even bald eagles. Bring a blanket to one of the park’s many picnic areas and enjoy eating your lunch amongst nature.
4. Camping
Take your time to explore the park in-depth when you reserve a Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area campsite. For hikers on extended trips, there are backcountry campsites available. You can also reserve a river campsite if you prefer to make your trip by water.
5. Fishing
If you’re looking for a place to have your next fishing trip, the Delaware Water Gap is an excellent choice! There are several streams and lakes to choose from, in addition to the Delaware River. (Before you go, make sure to get your Pennsylvania fishing license and check the park’s current regulations.)
Come Home to the French Manor Inn & Spa!
After a wonderful trip to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, treat yourself to a relaxing stay at the French Manor Inn & Spa! Our Poconos bed and breakfast is just a short drive away and is the perfect place to unwind. Feel free to rest in one of our comfortable guest rooms or suites, then join us for dinner at our onsite restaurant. You can even book a restorative massage at our spa. We can’t wait to hear all about your adventures in the Poconos!
For more information on the Delaware Water Gap in PA and other Poconos attractions,
request a copy of our free vacation guide.
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