Paddling the Delaware: 10 Miles Through the Pocono Mountains in a 3‑Hour Kayak or Canoe Trip

EAST STROUDSBURG CANOE FIELD GUIDE

Paddling the Delaware: 10 Miles Through the Pocono Mountains in a 3‑Hour Kayak or Canoe Trip

A 10‑mile, three‑hour paddle from Bushkill to Smithfield on the Delaware River—essential practical notes for swimmers aged 6 and up.

Paddling the Delaware: 10 Miles Through the Pocono Mountains in a 3‑Hour Kayak or Canoe Trip.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
East Stroudsburg
Operator
Chamberlain Canoes
Category
Canoe
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Experience the thrill of paddling down the picturesque Delaware River in the Pocono Mountains on a three‑hour kayak or canoe trip that invites swimming‑capable participants, ages 6 and up, to take in riverside scenery and outdoor fun.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

Scenic Delaware River in the Poconos

The route follows the Delaware River through the Pocono Mountains, offering sustained riverside scenery across a roughly three‑hour paddle.

THE ROUTE

A 10‑mile Paddle from Bushkill to Smithfield

This outing covers a ten‑mile stretch on the Delaware River, designed to be completed in about three hours of paddling time.

THE BASICS

Who Can Go and Rental Return Rules

All participants must be able to swim and children must be at least six years old to use kayaks or canoes; rentals must be off the river by roughly 5/6pm, depending on season, or late fees will apply.

What the day feels like

What the Paddle Feels Like

Over approximately three hours of paddle time, participants move downstream between the Bushkill and Smithfield sections of the Delaware River, trading riverbank views and open water stretches with the steady rhythm of strokes—an experience built for those comfortable in the water and ready to spend time outdoors.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits — and who should reconsider.

1
Active FamiliesGood choice for families with children aged six and up who are comfortable in the water; the outing is family‑friendly so long as all participants can swim.
2
Confident SwimmersIdeal for people who are comfortable swimming and spending several hours on the river; non‑swimmers are not permitted to participate.
3
Casual Day‑trippersWell suited to casual paddlers seeking a multi‑hour outing in scenic surroundings, provided they meet the age and swimming requirements.
4
Young Children & Non‑swimmersNot a fit for children under six or participants who cannot swim; the operator requires swimming capability and enforces the minimum age for watercraft use.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring water, swim gear, suntan lotion, bug spray, dry clothes for after the trip, and a cooler for snacks and drinks (no Styrofoam). Do not bring glass or valuables.

Footwear

Wear old sneakers, water shoes, Crocs, or similar footwear suitable for wet conditions.

Prohibited & Practical Items

No glass containers; avoid bringing valuables. Coolers are allowed for food and drinks but not Styrofoam containers.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the paddle?

The trip is approximately three hours of paddle time.

How long is the route in miles?

The outing covers about ten miles between Bushkill and Smithfield.

Are there age restrictions for children?

Children must be at least six years old to use kayaks and canoes.

Do participants need to be able to swim?

Yes. All participants must be able to swim.

When must rentals be off the river?

All rentals must be off the river by approximately 5/6pm; exact times depend on time of year and late fees will apply for returns after the deadline.

What should I wear and bring?

Bring water, swim gear, sunscreen, bug spray, old sneakers or water shoes, a cooler for snacks/drinks (no Styrofoam), and dry clothes to leave in your car; do not bring glass or valuables.