Climb 125 stairs for breathtaking views of the Delaware River and explore 500 acres of history and nature at Bowman’s Hill Tower in New Hope, PA.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Visitors should have basic fitness to climb the 125 stairs and walk on uneven paths comfortably.
Wildlife
History
Bowman’s Hill Tower commemorates George Washington’s famous crossing of the Delaware River in 1776, a pivotal moment in the American Revolution.
Conservation
Friends of Washington Crossing Park work to preserve the natural habitat and historic landmarks, promoting responsible visitation to protect this shared heritage.
Friends of Washington Crossing Park
Climb 125 stairs for breathtaking views of the Delaware River and explore 500 acres of history and nature at Bowman’s Hill Tower in New Hope, PA.
Friends of Washington Crossing Park connects visitors with the history and landscapes of Washington Crossing Historic Park in Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania. The organization facilitates guided experiences across more than 500 acres of parkland, including the Thompson-Neely House, the Thompson-Neely grist mill, Bowman's Hill Tower, and programs that interpret George Washington's actions during the Ten Crucial Days.
The Thompson-Neely House Tour highlights a stone structure built between 1740 and 1788, notable for serving as an encampment for Lord Stirling's Brigade and functioning as a regimental hospital. The Thompson-Neely Grist Mill experience pairs historic farm interpretation with the house and grounds to illustrate 18th‑century life. Bowman's Hill Tower invites visitors to climb 125 stairs to panoramic views extending up to 14 miles along the Delaware River and Bucks County countryside.
A Preserve and Tower Combination Ticket offers access to Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve and the tower in one purchase. The Traversing the Ten Crucial Days Bus Tour follows George Washington's maneuvers from December 25, 1776, to January 3, 1777, with expert interpreters recounting battles and local history.
Interpretive tours, preserved historic buildings, and managed natural areas provide layered learning opportunities for families, history enthusiasts, and school groups. Information is presented through tours and ticketed experiences that emphasize documented dates, structures, and landscapes, enabling visitors to explore verified historical sites and scenic vantage points within Washington Crossing Historic Park. All tours and experiences take place on park properties in Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania, with multiple on-site access points throughout the historic park grounds nearby.
Park Area
500+ acres
Historic landscapes and trails
Historic Structures
Thompson-Neely House (1740–1788)
Stone house with documented Revolutionary use
Tower Views
14-mile panorama
Climb 125 stairs for scenic vistas
Ten Crucial Days
Dec 25 – Jan 3
Follow Washington's 1776–1777 maneuvers
Reserve tickets for Thompson-Neely House tours, the Preserve & Tower combination, or the Ten Crucial Days Bus Tour and experience documented Revolutionary War sites.
Wear sturdy shoes for the climb
The ascent to Bowman’s Hill Tower involves 125 steps, so comfortable footwear with good grip is recommended.
Bring water during warmer months
Stay hydrated on your walk, especially when visiting in summer or on sunny days.
Check park hours before arrival
Ensure the tower and park facilities are open by verifying hours ahead of your visit.
Use caution in wet conditions
Stone steps and paths can become slippery after rain—take your time to avoid slips.
Comfortable hiking shoes
Provide support and traction for walking trails and climbing tower steps.
Water bottle
Helps keep you hydrated during warmer conditions and physical activity.
summer
Weather-appropriate layers
To stay comfortable as temperatures and weather fluctuate throughout the day.
all
Camera or smartphone
Capture stunning panoramic views and park highlights from the tower.