Do I need previous canoeing experience?

No previous experience is necessary; basic paddling skills are easy to learn and all equipment is provided.

Is transportation provided to the launch point?

Yes, a shuttle takes you from the Shawnee Inn to Smithfield Beach upstream where you begin your canoe trip.

Are life vests included?

Yes, life vests are provided for all participants and must be worn during the trip.

Can children participate?

Children may participate but the 3-mile trip is most suitable; younger children should be accompanied by adults.

What should I bring with me?

It’s recommended to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and a dry bag for valuables.

Is the trip weather dependent?

Yes, trips may be canceled or rescheduled in case of severe weather conditions for safety reasons.

Paddling the Delaware: Shawnee Inn Canoe Trips for Scenic and Adventurous River Journeys | Guided Tour | Canoe

The Delaware River carves a serene path through the forests and rolling hills of northeastern Pennsylvania, offering both a peaceful retreat and an adventurous playground for paddlers. At the heart of this experience lies the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, a longtime bastion of outdoor recreation located near East Stroudsburg. From here, Shawnee’s Canoe Trip presents an ideal way for visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty—whether you’re seeking a relaxed afternoon or a more extensive river expedition. Guests can choose between a gentle 3-mile paddle or a more ambitious 13-mile journey, both beginning from the historic Smithfield Beach, just a short shuttle ride upstream from the inn.

Launching from Smithfield Beach, canoeists float down the Delaware’s calm waters, framed by steep rocky bluffs and lush woodlands. The river’s glassy surface reflects towering sycamores and eastern hemlocks, while native wildlife—like white-tailed deer drinking at the riverbank or bald eagles soaring overhead—adds to the scenic richness. The 3-mile trip is perfect for families, beginners, or those wanting a quick, rejuvenating escape. For paddlers seeking a challenge and more time on the water, the 13-mile route stretches deeper into the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, where towering sandstone cliffs and diverse ecosystems highlight the river’s geological significance.

What sets Shawnee’s Canoe Trip apart is its seamless blend of accessibility and wilderness immersion. Launch and return points are conveniently situated so you can start and finish right back at the Shawnee Inn, enabling easy access to the resort’s amenities after your paddle. The outfitter provides all essential gear—canoes, paddles, and life vests—along with shuttle transport upstream, making it a worry-free adventure no matter your skill level.

The Delaware River itself carries centuries of history as a critical transport route and natural boundary, with the nearby Delaware Water Gap designated as a protected national area since 1965. Paddle beneath towering cliffs formed from ancient sandstone, and soak in the quiet spots steeped in local heritage and natural preservation efforts.

Whether it’s a family day out or a couple’s adventure, Shawnee’s Canoe Trip delivers an intimate, waterborne perspective of Pennsylvania’s scenic heartland. The combination of easy access, reliable gear, and the breathtaking surroundings make it a standout paddling destination in the Northeast. For visitors staying in East Stroudsburg or passing through the Delaware Water Gap, this canoeing experience is a must when looking to connect with both nature and a slice of American river history.