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.
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.
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Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Adventure Sports · Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
The Delaware River carves a remarkable route through the northeastern United States, with the Bushkill to Delaware Water Gap segment offering paddlers a vivid outdoor experience framed by the Pocono Mountains' rolling terrain. Starting from Bushkill, Pennsylvania, this two-day, 16-mile trip invites adventurers to glide through calm sections of the river while absorbing the layered ecosystem and storied history lining its banks. The journey boasts scenic river bends, towering limestone cliffs, and lush deciduous forests that shift dramatically with the seasons.
One of the key natural features along this route is the striking geology of the Delaware Water Gap itself, a dramatic notch where the river cuts through the Appalachian Mountains. Paddlers witness unique rock formations shaped over millennia and have opportunities to spot native wildlife such as white-tailed deer and bald eagles in flight. The Shawnee Inn, a historic lodge established in 1911, anchors the cultural landscape here, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century leisure culture and river-based recreation.
What distinguishes this trip is its balance: alternating longer paddling stretches interspersed with shorter, restful segments allow time to appreciate the effortless beauty of the river corridor without overwhelming beginners. It’s accessible yet engaging, making it a sought-after trip for families and intermediate paddlers looking to immerse themselves in Pennsylvania’s outdoor heritage.
Launching from 10 Moose Lane, Moose, Wyoming 83012—which is outside the immediate trip region but serves as the provided address—the itinerary captures the essence of East Coast river travel. The area encourages sustainable practices, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles to protect water quality and wildlife habitats along the riverbanks.
Whether tracing the river’s bends by day or camping under a canvas of stars, this Bushkill to Delaware Water Gap trip is a standout choice for those seeking a multi-day paddle filled with natural beauty, historical context, and serene adventure away from urban crowds.
moderate.
2 days.
Moderate fitness required; able to paddle 6-10 miles daily comfortably.
Basic paddling skills and river safety knowledge are recommended but beginners can manage with guidance.
Yes, established camping areas near the Delaware Water Gap allow overnight stays during the trip.
Expect to see white-tailed deer, osprey, bald eagles, and various waterfowl along the river corridor.
Late spring through early fall offers mild weather and lower water levels for comfortable paddling.
No special permits are needed for paddling this stretch, but camping fees may apply at designated sites.
Seek safe shelter immediately and monitor weather updates before and during your trip.
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.
Local groups promote Leave No Trace ethics to protect river water quality and preserve surrounding habitats.
Adventure Sports is an activity provider based in Warwick, England offering a diverse program of outdoor adventures, specialist sessions and private events. The company runs off-road driving, axe throwing, quad biking, Segway treks and laser tag on site in the Warwickshire countryside, with expert instructors and age-appropriate sessions. 4x4 Off Road Driving welcomes participants aged 10 and up; Laser Tag sessions accommodate players aged 8 to 80. Adventure Sports also operates water-based experiences in the Bay of St Tropez, including wakesurfing, wakeboarding, inflatable towables and private boat tours aboard a Super Air Nautique 210 and private charters on a Beneteau 6.5. Multi-day paddling itineraries are listed for the Delaware River, including one- and multi-day trips between Bushkill, Dingmans Ferry, Smithfield Beach and the Delaware Water Gap. Services include private party and group bookings, team building programs, meeting room facilities and a range of shooting, archery and paintball formats. Safety briefings, instructor-led training and user-friendly equipment are provided where noted, including guided quad bike and Segway sessions on mapped terrain across 100 acres. Adventure Sports presents both open sessions and private hires, catering to families, corporate groups and experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Activity summaries and session durations are provided per trip; no prior experience is required for many sessions. All information above reflects the trips and services listed for Adventure Sports and their locations in Warwick and select coastal and river destinations. Booking details, session lengths and age limits are listed for each trip to help plan visits and group outings.
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