Delaware River Paddling: 2-Day Bushkill to Water Gap Trip
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; able to paddle 6-10 miles daily comfortably.
Overview
Paddle the scenic Delaware River from Bushkill to Delaware Water Gap over two days. Experience the Pocono Mountains, wildlife, and historic Shawnee Inn along this 16-mile trip.
2 Day Bushkill to Delaware Water Gap (16 mile trip)
6 Hours Paddle Time
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a memorable two-day adventure down the Delaware River, starting from Bushkill. Enjoy stunning views of the Pocono Mountains, spot local wildlife, and explore historic sites like the Shawnee Inn. With a mix of longer and shorter paddles, this trip is perfect for a relaxing outdoor experience.
About
Take your time and relax on this fun two-day trip down the Delaware River from the Bushkill boat launch in Lehman Township all the way to the Delaware Water Gap. Float down this scenic river and admire the beautiful sites of the Pocono Mountains.
Look for local wildlife along the banks of the river, like deer, bears, bald eagles, and other species native to northeast Pennsylvania. Your trip brings you past many points of interest, including the Historic Shawnee Inn, a stately riverside resort whose roots date back to the late 1800s.
You can also see the remains of the Old Karamac Resort and train crossing as you paddle on toward the Delaware Water Gap. You can’t miss the ‘jumping rock,’ located on the Pennsylvania side of the river (to your right).
This trip offers a longer paddle on the first day, about 10 or 11 miles, and a shorter paddle on the second day, about five or six miles, when camping at Tocks or Labar Island. This is the perfect river trip if you can’t spend a full second day on the river or just want to have a lazy morning around the campsite and get a later start.
Adventure Sports will provide everything you need to have a fantastic outdoor adventure whether it’s spring, summer, or autumn. Book your river excursion online.
Distance: 16 miles Launch Location: Bushkill Boat Launch Paddle Time: 6 Hours
Adventure Tips
Check weather before launch
River conditions can change rapidly; ensure calm weather to avoid strong currents.
Wear a life jacket at all times
Safety first: the Delaware River can have unpredictable sections, even on calmer days.
Bring insect repellent
The river valleys attract bugs, especially in warmer months—repellent keeps paddling comfortable.
Pack layered clothing
Temperatures vary from morning to afternoon; layers help maintain comfort on the water.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagle
- White-tailed deer
History
The Delaware Water Gap has served as a vital corridor for indigenous peoples and early settlers, with the Shawnee Inn established in 1911 as a historic lodge.
Conservation
Local groups promote Leave No Trace ethics to protect river water quality and preserve surrounding habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Philadelphia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight paddle
Efficient paddling tool eases long-distance travel on river water.
PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
Provides essential safety support for paddlers on open water.
Dry bags
Keeps gear dry during river transit and potential splashes.
Camping tent
Shelter for overnight stays along the riverbanks during the trip.
summer;fall;spring specific