McDade Recreational Trail wilderness guide
Recreational Trail · PA
Mountain%20Biking Guide

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
DesignationRecreational Trail
Total Wilderness Area70,000
Elevation / TerrainDiverse 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.

Daily Tickets
ADVEXPEDITION
Sussex, New Jersey
ZooADV Bookable

Daily Tickets

Buy once, visit any day in 2026: these Daily Tickets unlock a self-guided zoo and museum experience in Sussex, NJ. Flexible timing, outdoor enclosures, and hands-on museum displays make it an easy half-day outing for families and curious travelers.

ZooZoo & Museum self guided walk through tickets. Open daily through November, 10-5. Last entrance 4pm.Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Across the Bridge: A Golf Journey
ADVEXPEDITION
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
GolfADV Bookable

Across the Bridge: A Golf Journey

Cross the bridge to the island where Shawnee's golf story began. This 45-minute guided walk blends riverside scenery, course history, and practical tips for golfers and curious travelers alike.

GolfA guided exploration of the course and surrounding areaCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Shawnee Heritage Symposium Series
ADVEXPEDITION
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
History TourADV Bookable

Shawnee Heritage Symposium Series

Spend a Sunday afternoon at The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort and move beyond postcards into the stories that shaped this stretch of the Delaware River. The Shawnee Heritage Symposium Series pairs a heritage-inspired lunch with expert-led conversations and optional guided island outings.

History TourIn-Depth Conversations on 115+ Years Along the DelawareCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Water Aerobics
ADVEXPEDITION
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Water Aerobics

Slip into the Shawnee Inn’s heated indoor pool for instructor-led water aerobics open to the public. Low-impact, music-driven classes are ideal for recovery after river days or as a steady cardio session during your Pocono escape.

Water ActivitiesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
River Stone Remembrance – Stones of the River
ADVEXPEDITION
Shawnee on Delaware, Pennsylvania
Walking TourADV Bookable

River Stone Remembrance – Stones of the River

Choose a river-polished stone along the Delaware River—take it home or add it to The Shawnee Inn’s labyrinth and remembrance garden. This intimate, 90-minute experience is included for overnight guests and turns a riverside walk into a meaningful keepsake.

Walking TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
The Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area Experience
ADVEXPEDITION
Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania
HikingADV Bookable

The Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area Experience

Spend two easy hours along the Delaware River on a guided walk from the Front Desk to George Childs Park. Learn the geology of the Kittatinny Ridge, spot osprey and migrating birds, and enjoy accessible river views with a small, interpretive group.

HikingA guided walk through an official National Park Recreation Area trailCertified 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