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McDade Recreational Trail wilderness guide
Recreational Trail · PA

McDade Recreational Trail

The McDade Recreational Trail offers a scenic journey through the natural beauty of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, perfect for hiking and exploring the rich history of the region.

Recreational Trail70,0003+ Trails

Designation

Recreational Trail

Total Wilderness Area

70,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About McDade Recreational Trail

The McDade Recreational Trail offers a scenic journey through the natural beauty of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, perfect for hiking and exploring the rich history of the region.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The McDade Recreational Trail runs parallel to the scenic Delaware River within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, situated in Pennsylvania. This trail provides visitors with an immersive way to experience the facets of the area's geography and ecology, stretching about 31 miles. From the trail, you can see diverse habitats that include forests, fields, and wetlands, offering opportunities to spot local wildlife like white-tailed deer, red foxes, and a variety of bird species. Historically, the trail corridor was used by indigenous peoples and later European settlers. Visitors can enjoy recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching, with accessible trailheads at various points offering flexibility in activity length and intensity. Notable landmarks include overlooks that offer vistas of the Delaware River and surrounding countryside. The McDade Trail's design accommodates both leisurely family outings and more vigorous pursuits, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts.

Field Guide · Recreational Trail
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near McDade Recreational Trail

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover the Natural Splendor of Delaware Water Gap★ 7.0⌖ 7 miHiking
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Discover the Natural Splendor of Delaware Water Gap

Explore Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Bushkill, PA. Enjoy hiking the Appalachian Trail, canoeing on the Delaware River, and exploring Raymondskill Falls. The area offers diverse wildlife and stunning vistas, perfect for adventure seekers and photographers.

Majestic Cascades of Bushkill Falls★ 8.2⌖ 10 miHiking
Bushkill Falls

Majestic Cascades of Bushkill Falls

Bushkill Falls offers a scenic escape with over 2 miles of hiking trails and 8 stunning waterfalls. The trails provide various views and photo opportunities, perfect for nature lovers. Enjoy activities like fishing and paddle boating. Best visited in spring or fall.

Winter Hiking in Blue Hills Reservation★ 7.2⌖ 11 miWinter hiking
Boston

Winter Hiking in Blue Hills Reservation

Explore winter hiking at Blue Hills Reservation near Boston. With various trails suited for all skill levels, enjoy scenic views, peaceful walks, and a family-friendly environment. Pack traction aids for icy trails.

Winter hikingView Details→
Majestic Views at Milford Knob Trailhead★ 8.2⌖ 11 miHiking
Milford Knob Trailhead

Majestic Views at Milford Knob Trailhead

Explore the Milford Knob Trailhead near Milford, PA, known for its panoramic views of the Delaware River and moderate hiking difficulty. It's a great spot for photographers and nature lovers. Ideal seasons for visiting are spring and fall.

High Point State Park: A Scenic Escape★ 5.5⌖ 11 miHiking
High Point State Park

High Point State Park: A Scenic Escape

Explore the scenic High Point State Park in Sussex, NJ. With its stunning 360-degree views and diverse hiking trails, the park is ideal for family-friendly adventures. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience and enjoy swimming at Lake Marcia.

Tranquil Waters of Sunfish Pond★ 7.0⌖ 16 miHiking
Sunfish Pond

Tranquil Waters of Sunfish Pond

Explore the serene Sunfish Pond in Hardwick Township, NJ. Hiking and nature watching are popular, with the Appalachian Trail offering scenic views. Ideal for picnics and birdwatching, this quiet spot is best visited in spring or fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Delaware River views from various overlooks✦ Rich biodiversity with opportunities for bird watching✦ Historical sites along the trail with informational markers✦ Scenic picnic spots along the river
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in McDade Recreational Trail

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in McDade Recreational Trail.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees required, open access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in McDade Recreational Trail

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Dingmans Campground

Convenient location near the trail, with facilities including showers and a camp store.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near McDade Recreational Trail

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Frankford Township
⌖ 2.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Frankford Township, New Jersey

A rural township offering peaceful outdoor escapes with diverse terrain, suitable for paddling, hiking, and winter sports in serene natural settings.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Branchville
⌖ 4.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Branchville, New Jersey

A quiet gateway to wooded trails, rivers, and seasonal outdoor activities in Sussex County’s rural northwest corner.

Spring through Fall; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Newton
⌖ 7.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Newton, New Jersey

A peaceful small-town gateway offering access to rolling hills, scenic trails, and waterways ideal for year-round outdoor pursuits.

Spring through Fall, with winter for snow activitiesExplore Town
Lafayette
⌖ 8.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lafayette, New Jersey

A serene rural town offering peaceful outdoor escapes with rolling hills, quiet lakes, and easy access to forest preserves.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Hardwick Township
⌖ 8.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hardwick Township, New Jersey

A quiet escape in northwest New Jersey, perfect for exploring nature with hiking trails, scenic paddles, and peaceful campsites.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Bushkill
⌖ 9.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bushkill, Pennsylvania

A charming gateway to the Delaware Water Gap offering diverse outdoor activities amid stunning natural landscapes.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in McDade Recreational Trail

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.