Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

🌄 Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a stunning 70,000-acre expanse straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey, where the Delaware River slices through the Appalachian Mountains, forming the dramatic "gap" between Mount Minsi and Mount Tammany.

🏞️ Landscape & Natural Features

• River Corridor: 40 miles of the Middle Delaware National Scenic River flow through the park, offering serene views and water activities.
• Waterfalls: Home to some of the tallest in the region, including Raymondskill Falls (PA’s tallest) and Buttermilk Falls (NJ’s tallest).
• Trails: Over 150 miles of hiking paths, including 28 miles of the Appalachian Trail, wind through forests, ridges, and riverbanks.

🐾 Recreation & Activities

• Hiking & Biking: Trails range from easy boardwalks to rugged climbs with panoramic overlooks.
• Water Sports: Canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and fishing are popular along the Delaware River.
• Camping: Includes riverside sites for paddlers and backcountry options along the Appalachian Trail.
• Winter Fun: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even ice climbing at Raymondskill Falls.

🏛️ Cultural & Historical Highlights

• Minisink Region: Rich in Native American and colonial history, with archaeological sites and preserved 19th-century villages like Millbrook.
• Tocks Island Legacy: The park was born from a controversial dam project that was canceled in 1978, leaving behind a vast natural refuge.

📍 Visitor Info

• Location: Headquarters in Bushkill, PA; spans Monroe, Pike, and Northampton counties in PA and Sussex and Warren counties in NJ.
• Access Points: Popular spots include Dingmans Falls, Smithfield Beach, and Milford Beach.
• Fees: No entrance fee, but some beaches and parking areas charge seasonal fees.