McDade Recreational Trail wilderness guide
Recreational Trail · PA

McDade Recreational Trail

The McDade Recreational Trail offers a scenic journey through the natural beauty of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, perfect for hiking and exploring the rich history of the region.

Recreational Trail70,0003+ Trails

Designation

Recreational Trail

Total Wilderness Area

70,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About McDade Recreational Trail

The McDade Recreational Trail offers a scenic journey through the natural beauty of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, perfect for hiking and exploring the rich history of the region.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The McDade Recreational Trail runs parallel to the scenic Delaware River within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, situated in Pennsylvania. This trail provides visitors with an immersive way to experience the facets of the area's geography and ecology, stretching about 31 miles. From the trail, you can see diverse habitats that include forests, fields, and wetlands, offering opportunities to spot local wildlife like white-tailed deer, red foxes, and a variety of bird species. Historically, the trail corridor was used by indigenous peoples and later European settlers. Visitors can enjoy recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching, with accessible trailheads at various points offering flexibility in activity length and intensity. Notable landmarks include overlooks that offer vistas of the Delaware River and surrounding countryside. The McDade Trail's design accommodates both leisurely family outings and more vigorous pursuits, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts.

Field Guide · Recreational Trail
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near McDade Recreational Trail

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Delaware River views from various overlooks✦ Rich biodiversity with opportunities for bird watching✦ Historical sites along the trail with informational markers✦ Scenic picnic spots along the river
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in McDade Recreational Trail

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in McDade Recreational Trail.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees required, open access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in McDade Recreational Trail

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Dingmans Campground

Convenient location near the trail, with facilities including showers and a camp store.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near McDade Recreational Trail

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Frankford Township, New Jersey
⌖ 2.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Frankford Township, New Jersey

Frankford Township offers peaceful forests, quiet hiking and biking trails, and scenic paddling along the Delaware River. Visitors enjoy year-round outdoor activities including winter skiing in protected natural areas.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Branchville, New Jersey
⌖ 4.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Branchville, New Jersey

Branchville offers quiet access to wooded trails, paddling on pristine lakes, and winter skiing opportunities. It’s a low-key destination for outdoor lovers looking to explore New Jersey’s scenic northwest in all seasons.

Spring through Fall; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Newton, New Jersey
⌖ 7.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Newton, New Jersey

Newton, New Jersey, is a quiet town surrounded by parks and waterways perfect for hiking, paddling, and winter sports. Its peaceful trails and natural areas make it a solid choice for outdoor lovers seeking a less crowded destination.

Spring through Fall, with winter for snow activities
Explore Town
Lafayette, New Jersey
⌖ 8.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lafayette, New Jersey

Lafayette, NJ offers quiet outdoor escapes with hiking, fishing, and paddling in nearby state parks. Ideal for travelers seeking peaceful nature trails and scenic water activities in a rural setting.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Hardwick Township, New Jersey
⌖ 8.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hardwick Township, New Jersey

Hardwick Township in New Jersey offers a tranquil escape with outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and paddling. Ideal for those seeking solace in nature.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Bushkill, Pennsylvania
⌖ 9.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bushkill, Pennsylvania

Bushkill, PA is a hub for adventure seekers with stunning waterfalls, abundant trails, and rich wildlife. Known as the 'Niagara of Pennsylvania', Bushkill Falls are a must-see, alongside countless other natural wonders in the Delaware Water Gap area.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in McDade Recreational Trail

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Dinner aboard Miss Lotta: An Evening Cruise on Lake Hopatcong
ADVEXPEDITION
Jefferson, New Jersey
Dinner BoatADV Bookable

Dinner aboard Miss Lotta: An Evening Cruise on Lake Hopatcong

A two-hour dinner cruise departing Nolan’s Point Park that pairs lakeside vistas with a casual meal and discounted wine—this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.

Dinner BoatPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
An Hour of Quiet: Guided Journaling at Shawnee Inn
ADVEXPEDITION
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Guided TourADV Bookable

An Hour of Quiet: Guided Journaling at Shawnee Inn

A one-hour guided session in East Stroudsburg that helps you find a peaceful space to collect your thoughts—this guide explains what to expect and how the experience is structured.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
A gentle walk to notice Shawnee at its natural pace
ADVEXPEDITION
Shawnee on Delaware, Pennsylvania
Walking TourADV Bookable

A gentle walk to notice Shawnee at its natural pace

A short, 45-minute riverside stroll from the Shawnee Inn that focuses on natural views and peaceful waterside scenery — this guide distills what to expect and where to meet.

Walking TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip