EAST STROUDSBURG GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Days on the Delaware: A 20‑Mile Paddle from Eshback to the Water Gap
A two‑day, 20‑mile guided kayaking and canoeing trip launching from Eshback Boat Access and finishing at the Delaware Water Gap, offering seasonal wildlife viewing along the Kittatinny Ridge.
Two Days on the Delaware: A 20‑Mile Paddle from Eshback to the Water Gap.
Adventure brief
Two Days on the Delaware: A 20‑Mile Paddle from Eshback to the Water Gap
This guided, two‑day excursion follows twenty miles of the Delaware River from the Eshback launch down to the Delaware Water Gap, winding past islands, beaches and recreation areas beneath the Kittatinny Ridge. Expect to watch for bald eagles, deer and other northeastern Pennsylvania wildlife as you paddle through changing seasonal flows and move from open river into the iconic gap.
Located in northeastern Pennsylvania near East Stroudsburg, the Delaware Water Gap is a dramatic river pass separating the Kittatinny Ridge and Blue Mountain. This two-day, 20-mile paddling expedition from Eshback to the Delaware Water Gap offers a rare chance to glide through one of the region’s most celebrated natural corridors. Perfect for kayakers and canoeists of all skill levels, this trip combines impressive scenery with abundant wildlife, diverse waterways, and a steady sense of adventure.
The journey begins at Eshback, where the Delaware River widens and slows, ideal for both novices and seasoned paddlers. Along the route, you traverse calm channels weaving between forested islands and riverbanks peppered with iconic eastern hardwood forests. This stretch of river is a haven for bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and occasional glimpses of river otters, creating a vivid wildlife backdrop to your paddle.
Paddling toward the Delaware Water Gap—a striking notch carved through layered Silurian shale and sandstone cliffs—you’ll witness steep, rugged geology rising sharply from the water’s edge. The view is especially spectacular when autumn colors transform the landscape into a vibrant mosaic of reds and golds.
Beyond its natural allure, this waterway holds cultural and historical significance. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, established in 1965, protects over 70,000 acres of territory that has long been a crossroads for Native American trails, early European settlers, and modern outdoor enthusiasts.
Camping options near launch sites and mid-route allow paddlers to soak in the quiet wilderness at day’s end before setting out again. The mix of gentle currents and occasional mild rapids keeps the trip engaging without demanding expert technical skills. Local guides emphasize safety and environmental stewardship, ensuring the river's fragile ecosystems remain vibrant.
East Stroudsburg offers convenient lodging and dining after your paddle, making it easy to extend your visit and explore the surrounding Pocono Mountains.
Whether you seek a mellow river escape or a rugged, multi-day adventure with panoramic vistas and dependable wildlife encounters, the 2 Day Eshback to Delaware Water Gap trip delivers. Its blend of accessible paddling, rich biodiversity, seasonal shifts in scenery, and a touch of regional history marks it as a must-book for those looking to experience the Delaware River’s heartland from the water.
Route Schematic
Itinerary & key stops
Core stops trace the river from launch through islanded reaches and local bars to the Water Gap finish.
Eshback Boat Access (Launch)
The trip begins at the Eshback access — the planned put‑in for kayaks and canoes.
Buck Bar (nearby feature)
About a mile south of the Eshback access you'll pass the Buck Bar, one of several notable river features early in the route.
Island passages
The route threads past islands such as Tocks, Labar, Depew and Poxano, with shifting channels and small beaches to scout.
Delaware Water Gap (Finish)
The paddling section culminates at the Delaware Water Gap, the well‑known notch in the Kittatinny Ridge and a natural focal point for the journey.
Flows vary by season: higher spring flows can shorten the trip while lower summer levels can slow progress. The trip is suitable for average paddlers and is offered as a guided experience; conditions and operator plans can affect timing and route details.
What the day feels like
What the two‑day paddle feels like
Spread over two days, the route is a steady river journey that alternates long, reflective stretches with tighter passages around islands and bars; paddlers move from the wooded banks and small beaches near Eshback toward the dramatic breach of the Kittatinny Ridge at the Delaware Water Gap, taking in varied wildlife and riverside parks along the way.
THE WILDLIFE
Bald eagles, deer and birdlife along the banks
The river corridor supports abundant wildlife; paddlers commonly spot birds of prey and deer as they move between islands, bars and riverside parks.
THE ROUTE
Island‑studded river to the Water Gap
The put‑in at Eshback leads past a series of islands — including Tocks, Labar, Depew and Poxano — and local river features like the Buck Bar on the first mile, before the approach to the Delaware Water Gap.
THE SEASONS
A different river each season
Flows change through spring and summer; higher spring levels shorten the trip, while lower summer flows can make the 20‑mile passage feel longer — and each season redraws the scenery.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most out of this outing.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The guided outing covers about 20 miles total and is scheduled as a two‑day trip with approximately 7 hours of paddle time.
The route is typically paddled from the end of April through the end of October; higher spring flows shorten the trip while lower summer flows can extend transit time.
Adventure Sports provides all the gear you might need to have an excellent trip.
Launch is at the Eshback Boat Access and the trip finishes at the Delaware Water Gap; the route passes islands and local river features so expect varied channels.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the paddle time during this trip?
The trip is scheduled with approximately 7 hours of paddle time spread over the two‑day route.
What is the total distance covered?
This outing covers roughly 20 miles from the Eshback launch to the Delaware Water Gap.
When is the best season to paddle this section?
Average paddlers typically run this trip from the end of April through the end of October; spring flows are higher and shorten transit while summer flows can lower the river and lengthen the journey.
Do I need to bring my own gear?
No — Adventure Sports provides all the gear you might need for the trip.
Is this trip suitable for beginners or families?
Yes — the trip is described as great for paddlers of all ages and skill levels, and average paddlers can enjoy the two‑day route.
Where do we put in and take out?
The launch is at the Eshback Boat Access and the trip concludes at the Delaware Water Gap.
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: 2026-09-05T19:26:35.084Z
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.