1 Day Bushkill to Delaware Water Gap (16 mile trip)

Stretching 16 miles along the lively Delaware River, Adventure Sports offers an invigorating one-day paddle from Bushkill Boat Launch to the Delaware Water Gap in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. This route is a prized segment within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, where the river carves a wide corridor framed by rugged cliffs and dense hardwood forests. Paddlers will glide past scenic landmarks including the historic Shawnee Inn, a riverside resort dating back to the 1890s renowned for its classic architecture and ties to the local heritage.

Further downstream, remnants of the Old Karamac Resort and a long-abandoned train crossing offer glimpses into early 20th-century leisure and transport along the river. The river here is generally calm, free from rapids and technical obstacles, but the 6-hour paddle challenges stamina and skill, making it best suited for seasoned paddlers prepared for full-day trips. Wildlife sightings are a highlight: keep an eye out for bald eagles soaring overhead, deer drinking along the banks, and the occasional black bear in the thicker woods.

The riverbanks feature diverse flora typical of northeastern deciduous forests, with towering oaks, maples, and birch trees turning vivid colors in fall. Unique to this stretch is the much-photographed ‘jumping rock’ on the Pennsylvania side, a natural platform popular with locals for cliff diving during warmer months. Seasonal water levels rise in spring and fall, lending speed and ease to the paddle, while summer offers warmer conditions though lower water levels.

Adventure Sports anchors itself as a key outfitter in the Pocono region, blending safety, education, and access to this remarkable river corridor. They supply all necessary gear and knowledge required to confidently tackle this impressive paddle, making it a standout excursion for paddlers seeking both nature immersion and a moderate physical challenge. Whether you’re tracing history or wildlife along the water’s edge, this journey delivers an authentic touchstone of Pennsylvania’s outdoor offerings.