STROUDSBURG SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Days on the Delaware: A 16‑Mile Paddle from Bushkill to the Water Gap
A two‑day, 16‑mile river trip from the Bushkill boat launch to the Delaware Water Gap with roughly 6 hours of paddling—this guide distills the route, camps, and sights along the Pocono shoreline.
Two Days on the Delaware: A 16‑Mile Paddle from Bushkill to the Water Gap.
Adventure brief
Two Days on the Delaware: A 16‑Mile Paddle from Bushkill to the Water Gap
Set out from the Bushkill boat launch for a relaxed two‑day paddle down the Delaware River, framed by the low ridges of the Pocono Mountains. The trip threads past riverside history — the stately Shawnee Inn and the remains of the Old Karamac Resort and train crossing — while offering ample chances to spot local wildlife from deer to bald eagles as you float toward the Delaware Water Gap.
The Delaware River carves a remarkable route through the northeastern United States, with the Bushkill to Delaware Water Gap segment offering paddlers a vivid outdoor experience framed by the Pocono Mountains' rolling terrain. Starting from Bushkill, Pennsylvania, this two-day, 16-mile trip invites adventurers to glide through calm sections of the river while absorbing the layered ecosystem and storied history lining its banks. The journey boasts scenic river bends, towering limestone cliffs, and lush deciduous forests that shift dramatically with the seasons.
One of the key natural features along this route is the striking geology of the Delaware Water Gap itself, a dramatic notch where the river cuts through the Appalachian Mountains. Paddlers witness unique rock formations shaped over millennia and have opportunities to spot native wildlife such as white-tailed deer and bald eagles in flight. The Shawnee Inn, a historic lodge established in 1911, anchors the cultural landscape here, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century leisure culture and river-based recreation.
What distinguishes this trip is its balance: alternating longer paddling stretches interspersed with shorter, restful segments allow time to appreciate the effortless beauty of the river corridor without overwhelming beginners. It’s accessible yet engaging, making it a sought-after trip for families and intermediate paddlers looking to immerse themselves in Pennsylvania’s outdoor heritage.
Launching from 10 Moose Lane, Moose, Wyoming 83012—which is outside the immediate trip region but serves as the provided address—the itinerary captures the essence of East Coast river travel. The area encourages sustainable practices, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles to protect water quality and wildlife habitats along the riverbanks.
Whether tracing the river’s bends by day or camping under a canvas of stars, this Bushkill to Delaware Water Gap trip is a standout choice for those seeking a multi-day paddle filled with natural beauty, historical context, and serene adventure away from urban crowds.
Route Schematic
Route and key stops
Stops and notable sights along the Bushkill-to‑Water Gap corridor.
Bushkill Boat Launch (Launch)
The trip begins at the Bushkill boat launch in Lehman Township; this is the official put‑in for the two‑day route.
Historic Shawnee Inn (Riverside Landmark)
Paddlers pass the stately Shawnee Inn—an iconic riverside resort dating to the late 1800s—visible from the water as the river narrows toward the Gap.
Camp: Tocks Island or Labar Island (Overnight)
Overnight camping takes place at Tocks or Labar Island between the two paddling days, allowing for a longer first day and a shorter second day.
Delaware Water Gap (Take‑out)
The route finishes at the Delaware Water Gap—your two‑day float concludes here after roughly 16 miles of paddling.
The trip is organized as a two‑day, 16‑mile float with about 6 hours of paddle time overall and a longer first day (approximately 10–11 miles) followed by a shorter second day (about 5–6 miles); plan accordingly for stamina and daylight, and check with the operator for any route or schedule adjustments.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
This is an unhurried two‑day river excursion: a longer first day of roughly 10–11 miles followed by a shorter second day of about five–six miles after an overnight camp on Tocks or Labar Island. The flow is deliberate—enough paddling to feel like an outing, with room for lazy mornings at the campsite and time to take in riverside views and historic sites.
THE LANDSCAPE
Pocono ridge-lines and easy river miles
The route follows a scenic stretch of the Delaware River with open views of the Pocono Mountains—ideal for a relaxed float where the river’s pace lets the landscape set the rhythm.
THE WILDLIFE
Watch the riverbanks for deer, bears and bald eagles
Expect wildlife sightings along the banks: the itinerary calls out deer, bears and bald eagles among the species native to northeast Pennsylvania that you may see from your boat.
THE HISTORY
Riverside stories: Shawnee Inn and the Old Karamac remains
Paddlers pass notable historic points like the Historic Shawnee Inn and the visible remnants of the Old Karamac Resort and a former train crossing—small landmarks that punctuate the river journey to the Water Gap.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and what to check before you go.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The operator runs this trip in spring, summer, and autumn; the two‑day format allows for flexible starts and a relaxed pace across seasons.
Adventure Sports will provide the gear you need for the river trip; still plan for personal essentials (sun protection, layers for changing weather, any required medications) and confirm specifics with the operator when booking.
Launch is at the Bushkill boat launch in Lehman Township; the full route covers 16 miles with about 6 hours of paddle time reported for the outing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip in miles and paddle time?
The outing covers 16 miles in total with about 6 hours of paddle time.
Where do we put in and take out?
The trip launches at the Bushkill boat launch and finishes at the Delaware Water Gap.
How are the days structured?
Expect a longer first day of about 10–11 miles and a shorter second day of roughly five–six miles, with an overnight camp on Tocks or Labar Island.
What wildlife might we see?
The trip notes sightings of deer, bears and bald eagles among the local species along the riverbanks.
Do I need to bring my own gear?
Adventure Sports states they will provide everything you need for the river trip—confirm any personal items to bring when you book.
What historic sights are on the route?
Paddlers pass the Historic Shawnee Inn and can see the remains of the Old Karamac Resort and a former train crossing, plus the notable 'jumping rock' on the Pennsylvania side.
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: 2026-09-10T12:13:53.907Z
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.