Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill
A 12-mile paddle through the Delaware Water Gap — where the river cuts a 1,200-foot gorge through the Kittatinny Ridge.
At a Glance
Distance
12 miles
Estimated Time
4-6 hours
Difficulty
Beginner
Route Type
One-Way
Water Body
Delaware River
Activities
Best Seasons
Route Map
About This Route
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area protects 40 miles of the Delaware River along the Pennsylvania-New Jersey border. This section through the famous "gap" — where the river cuts through the Kittatinny Ridge — is one of the most scenic paddles in the Northeast.
The river here is wide, gentle, and clean enough for swimming. The Gap itself features 1,200-foot ridges on both sides of the river, creating a dramatic mountain corridor. Bald eagles nest along the forested banks, and the river is rich with smallmouth bass and shad in spring.
Multiple gravel bar islands provide perfect lunch stops and swimming beaches. The National Park Service maintains the riverbanks, keeping the experience natural and undeveloped.
Highlights
- •Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
- •1,200-foot ridge corridor
- •Gravel bar islands for swimming
- •Bald eagle nesting territory
Safety & Hazards
Recreational boat traffic on summer weekends. River can rise rapidly after rain — check USGS gauge. Wear a PFD.
Shuttle Information
Drop vehicle at Bushkill access, then drive north to Dingmans Ferry (~15 min via US-209). Outfitters in the Gap offer shuttle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How difficult is Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill?
- Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill is rated beginner difficulty. Recreational boat traffic on summer weekends. River can rise rapidly after rain — check USGS gauge. Wear a PFD.
- How long does Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill take?
- Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill covers 12 miles and typically takes 4-6 hours.
- Do I need a shuttle for Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill?
- Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill is a one-way route. Drop vehicle at Bushkill access, then drive north to Dingmans Ferry (~15 min via US-209). Outfitters in the Gap offer shuttle.
- When is the best time to paddle Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill?
- The best seasons for Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill are summer and fall. Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill is on Delaware River.
- What activities are available on Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill?
- Delaware Water Gap: Dingmans to Bushkill supports Kayaking, Canoeing. Highlights: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, 1,200-foot ridge corridor, Gravel bar islands for swimming, Bald eagle nesting territory.
Quick Facts
- Put-in
- Dingmans Ferry Access
- Take-out
- Bushkill Access
- Water Body
- Delaware River
- State
- Pennsylvania
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