EAST STROUDSBURG GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Calm 6-Mile Float from Smithfield Beach to the Delaware Water Gap
A guided, family-friendly 6-mile paddle from Smithfield Beach to the Delaware Water Gap — this guide explains the route, timing, and what the operator provides so you can plan a relaxed day on the Delaware River.
A Calm 6-Mile Float from Smithfield Beach to the Delaware Water Gap.
Adventure brief
A Calm 6-Mile Float from Smithfield Beach to the Delaware Water Gap
This short, scenic float carries paddlers six miles down the Delaware River from Smithfield Beach in East Stroudsburg to the dramatic notch of the Delaware Water Gap. The guided outing — offered by Adventure Sports — is an easy, beginner-friendly excursion through a national recreation area dotted with islands and wildlife, ending at one of the region’s most famous geological landmarks.
Stretching six miles along one of the East Coast’s most iconic waterways, the 1 Day Smithfield Beach to Delaware Water Gap trip offers a calm yet captivating paddle through Pennsylvania’s Delaware River. Hosted by Adventure Sports based in East Stroudsburg, this journey suits beginners, families, and anyone craving an accessible water adventure without sacrificing scenic drama.
The trip begins at Smithfield Beach, a wide, grassy launch site perfect for a pre- or post-paddle picnic or a quick swim to cool off. Set off in a canoe, kayak, or raft, and let the gentle current guide you downstream through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. This region features the Delaware Water Gap itself—a striking notch through the Kittatinny Ridge that has drawn travelers for centuries. The waterway flows past several islands including Tocks, Labar, Depue, and Shawnee, each presenting quiet coves and serene shorelines that invite wildlife observations.
Wildlife sightings are a highlight here; keep an eye out for bald eagles wheeling overhead, white-tailed deer grazing along the banks, and the occasional black bear exploring the forest’s edge. The surrounding hills rise with mixed hardwoods, offering seasonal colors in the fall and vibrant greens in summer.
Adventure Sports delivers all necessary gear and expert guidance, emphasizing safety and fun—especially for first-timers. The flatwater conditions ensure a stress-free drift, making this a wholesome outdoor experience for kids and adults alike. The six-mile stretch typically takes around two hours on the water, making it an ideal half-day escape into nature.
With its blend of tranquil river scenery, accessible paddling, and abundant wildlife, this trip stands out as a top option for outdoor adventurers visiting the Poconos and the greater Delaware River area.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Key stops and moments along the six-mile float from put-in to the Water Gap.
Smithfield Beach Canoe Launch
Launch and staging area on the grassy beach, a place to picnic, relax or swim before you set out.
Island Passage: Tocks, Labar, Depue, Shawnee
A gentle passage past multiple named islands that define this stretch of the Delaware and create a scenic, sheltered float.
Wildlife Viewing Corridors
Opportunities to spot deer, bears and bald eagles from the water as you move downstream.
Delaware Water Gap
The trip’s terminus at the dramatic notch in the Kittatinny Ridge — the historic scenic landmark that concludes the six-mile journey.
This trip does not feature difficult river features or rapids and is described as suited for beginners and families; plan accordingly for a non-technical, recreational paddle.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
This is one of Adventure Sports’ shorter guided outings: launch from the grassy beach at Smithfield, settle into a canoe, kayak or raft, and spend roughly two hours drifting and paddling downstream (longer if you choose a raft) through a slow-moving, scenic stretch of the Delaware River before arriving at the Water Gap.
THE ROUTE
A slow, island-strewn float
The six-mile run from Smithfield Beach threads past multiple river islands — including Tocks, Labar, Depue and Shawnee — offering a relaxed downstream cruise rather than technical paddling.
THE WILDLIFE
Big mammals and raptors along the banks
Keep an eye ashore: the corridor is known for deer, bears and bald eagles that can appear as you float between islands and under mountain views.
THE DESTINATION
The Delaware Water Gap
The trip finishes at the Delaware Water Gap, an obvious notch in the Kittatinny Ridge long admired as a scenic wonder and once the site of popular summer resorts — a fitting payoff after a short, restorative paddle.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip works for — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This guided trip is a single-day outing; Adventure Sports runs this shorter six-mile float year-round and supplies the necessary equipment, so you plan around availability and weather.
Light day-gear, sun protection, a change of clothes if you plan to swim — Adventure Sports provides boats and essential equipment for the trip.
Choose canoe or kayak for roughly two hours of paddle time for the six-mile run; raft trips are longer (approximately 3.5 hours).
The put-in is Smithfield Beach Canoe Launch in East Stroudsburg; follow Adventure Sports’ booking and check-in instructions when you reserve.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the paddle?
Paddle time is approximately two hours in canoes or kayaks; raft trips take about 3.5 hours.
What is the trip distance?
The guided float covers six miles from Smithfield Beach to the Delaware Water Gap.
Where do we put in and finish?
The launch is at the Smithfield Beach Canoe Launch in East Stroudsburg; the trip finishes at the Delaware Water Gap.
Is this trip suitable for beginners or children?
Yes — the operator describes the trip as suited for beginners and whole families; there are no difficult features or rapids on this route.
What wildlife might I see?
Paddlers commonly see deer, bears and bald eagles along this stretch of the Delaware River.
Do I need to bring boats or gear?
Adventure Sports provides the equipment you need for the trip, including choices of canoe, kayak or raft.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-10T12:13:53.888Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.