Canoeing the Delaware River: What to Know Before You Go

Canoeing the Delaware River is one of those experiences that sticks with you — the rhythm of the paddle, the quiet stretches between rapids, bald eagles circling overhead, and the feeling that you're a world away from everything even though you're less than 90 minutes from New York City.

Whether you're a seasoned paddler or picking up a paddle for the first time, the Delaware offers some of the best canoeing in the Northeast. Here's what you need to know before you go.

Why the Delaware River for Canoeing?

The Delaware is a Class I river through the Water Gap — that means gentle current with occasional mild riffles and small waves. It's perfect for beginners and families while still being interesting enough for experienced paddlers. The river does the heavy lifting; you just steer and enjoy.

The scenery is the real draw. This section runs through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, a protected 70,000-acre park with no commercial development along the banks. You'll paddle past forested ridgelines, rocky bluffs, islands, and some of the cleanest water on the East Coast. Wildlife sightings are common — eagles, herons, deer, and the occasional black bear on the bank.

Trip Options

Chamberlain Canoes offers day trips ranging from a quick 6-mile paddle to a full-day 16-mile adventure. Here's a quick overview:

• Smithfield to Kittatinny Gap (6 miles, ~2 hours) — great for beginners, families with young kids, or anyone who wants a shorter day on the water.
• Bushkill to Smithfield (10 miles, ~3.5 hours) — the sweet spot. Enough river to feel like a real trip without being exhausting.
• Eshback to Smithfield (14 miles, ~4.5 hours) — a solid half-day paddle with more scenery and quiet stretches.
• Bushkill to Kittatinny Gap (16 miles, ~5.5 hours) — the full-day experience. Pack a big lunch.

Want more? We also offer overnight canoe trips ranging from 20 to 49 miles for multi-day camping adventures on the river.

Do I Need Experience?

Nope. The Delaware is one of the best rivers in the country for first-time canoeists. The current is forgiving, the water is warm in summer, and there are no rapids that require technical skill. We'll give you a quick orientation before you launch, covering basic paddle strokes and river safety.

If you've never been in a canoe before, the 6-mile Smithfield to Kittatinny trip is a great starting point. Two hours is enough to get comfortable without overdoing it.

What to Bring

• Cooler with food and drinks — pack a picnic. No glass containers, please.
• Water shoes or old sneakers — you will get wet getting in and out.
• Sunscreen and a hat — there's limited shade on the river.
• Dry bag for phones, keys, and anything you want to keep dry.
• Layers if you're going early or late season — mornings on the water can be cool.
• Camera — seriously, the scenery is worth it.

Can I Bring My Dog?

Yes! Dogs are welcome on canoes (and kayaks). We've had every breed from chihuahuas to golden retrievers enjoy a day on the river. Your dog must be leashed at all times. Most dogs love it once they settle in — just make sure they're comfortable around water first.

Canoe vs. Kayak — Which Should I Pick?

Both are great choices, and it really comes down to preference:

• Canoes hold 2–3 people plus gear. They're more stable, have more room for coolers and supplies, and are the better choice for families with kids or anyone bringing a dog.
• Kayaks are single or tandem, sit lower in the water, and are more responsive. They're a better fit if you want a sportier paddling experience.

Not sure? Check out our kayak trips to compare, or give us a call and we'll help you pick.

How It Works

1. Check in at our base at 103 Five Star Lane, East Stroudsburg, PA.
2. We'll outfit you with a canoe, paddles, and life vests.
3. Our shuttle takes you upriver to your launch point.
4. You paddle downstream at your own pace — stop for lunch, swim, explore islands, or just drift.
5. At the takeout, our shuttle brings you back to base.

Remember: you're renting the equipment for the day, not by the hour. Take your time and enjoy it. Just be at the endpoint by closing time.

Book Your Delaware River Canoe Trip

Chamberlain Canoes has been running trips on this river since 1968 — we know every bend, every island, and every eagle's nest. Check out our canoe trip details and pricing, or book your trip today.