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Explore the Delaware River from the comfort of Shawnee Inn’s canoe trips, offering peaceful 3-mile routes and daring 13-mile journeys flanked by towering bluffs and native wildlife. Discover why this East Stroudsburg experience is a top pick for paddle lovers in Pennsylvania.
Explore the Delaware River from the comfort of Shawnee Inn’s canoe trips, offering peaceful 3-mile routes and daring 13-mile journeys flanked by towering bluffs and native wildlife. Discover why this East Stroudsburg experience is a top pick for paddle lovers in Pennsylvania.
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Operated by Shawnee Inn · East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
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.
moderate.
2–4 hours.
Moderate fitness required; suitable for beginners with basic paddling stamina.
No previous experience is necessary; basic paddling skills are easy to learn and all equipment is provided.
Yes, a shuttle takes you from the Shawnee Inn to Smithfield Beach upstream where you begin your canoe trip.
Yes, life vests are provided for all participants and must be worn during the trip.
Children may participate but the 3-mile trip is most suitable; younger children should be accompanied by adults.
It’s recommended to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and a dry bag for valuables.
Yes, trips may be canceled or rescheduled in case of severe weather conditions for safety reasons.
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area was established in 1965, protecting 70,000 acres of natural and cultural resources along the river corridor.
Shawnee Inn encourages Leave No Trace principles and supports local conservation efforts to keep the Delaware River clean and wild.
Shawnee Inn is a historic resort and activity provider located in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, sitting on the banks of the Delaware River within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The property offers a broad mix of outdoor, educational, and family-friendly experiences that launch from the inn and nearby access points. Activities available at Shawnee Inn include guided hikes on sections of the Appalachian Trail, guided canoe trips and open canoeing options (including 3-mile and 13-mile paddles), all-electric historic tram tours with on-site interpretation, archery in the Bamboo Garden, golf cart tours of the championship course, craft hour sessions, candle making workshops, seasonal Fall Harvest Tram Tours, stargazing tram tours, and special holiday programs such as Breakfast with Santa. Programs are led by trained staff who provide safety briefings, interpretive information about local history and river formation, and practical guidance like Leave No Trace hiking ethics and river safety. Seasonal offerings run on set dates, for example the Fall Harvest Tram Tour operates from late September through mid-November. Shawnee Inn’s combination of riverside location, structured programming, and interpretive guides makes it a convenient base for families, couples, and groups seeking curated outdoor experiences in the Poconos.
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