2021-12-08 00:37:34
EXPLORING THE DELAWARE RIVER History, culture, and spectacular views make the Delaware River a special site for outdoor adventure, quiet hikes, and discovering the rich history of the region that includes ancient Native American settlements and remnants of the region’s Industrial Era glory years. The diversity of things to do on and near Pennsylvania’s portion of the waterway is as impressive as the Delaware River itself. The Delaware Water Gap Natural Recreation Area encompasses a portion of the Appalachian Trail with numerous spots for hiking, kayaking, and canoeing. Check out Mt. Minsi, Mt. Tammany, and the waterfalls found throughout the park. In Easton, just east of Allentown and Bethlehem, you’ll find the confluence of the Delaware and Lehigh rivers. Two noteworthy parks are found on the waterfront. Scott Park with its open-air amphitheater (perfect for catching a show) is situated near numerous historical bridges. Within walking distance you’ll find Riverside Park, which also has an amphitheater and is especially popular for its playground. At 165 miles stretching between Wilkes-Barre and Bristol, the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor (also known as the D&L Trail) is ideal for discovering the rich history and topography of eastern Pennsylvania. In the Anthracite Region—the heart of coal country—the trail winds through deep forests, Jim Thorpe, and other picturesque towns. The Lehigh Valley Region takes visitors to the National Canal Museum and the thriving cityscapes of Allentown and Bethlehem. And the D&L Trail’s Delaware Canal Region is filled with Colonial-era sites and verdant waterfront scenery. State-managed sites that incorporate the Delaware River are Delaware Canal State Park in Upper Black Eddy and Neshaminy State Park in Bensalem. The Delaware Canal, running parallel to the river between Easton and Bristol, features a historical canal, miles of shoreline, and no fewer than 11 river islands accessible to visitors. Neshaminy, taking its name from Neshaminy Creek, is a small, 339-acre park perfect for family outings. Bring swimsuits for the children’s spray park and swimming pool, and bring your boat as well—you can access the river at the on-site marina. Aficionados of American history and civic-minded travelers alike should plan a visit to Washington Crossing Historic Park in the aptly named town of Washington Crossing. This is the site of the famed general’s dramatic crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas Day 1776, to attack Hessian soldiers during the Revolutionary War’s early days. At the park, you’ll find historical buildings, spots for picnicking and boating, and, depending on when you visit, period-appropriate reenactments.
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