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Delaware Water Gap National Recreation AreaFall leaves at park headquarters PA...
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Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Sightseeing and Photography
 

For those interested in less vigorous recreation, sightseeing by autotouring is one way to sample the diverse flora and fauna, historic structures, and beautiful scenery in the park. Those interested in photography will be rewarded with rural scenery in New Jersey and dynamic waterfalls in both states, but especially Pennsylvania.

 

New Jersey
In any season, the auto tourist can find beautiful scenery along many miles of roadsin the park. New Jersey's Old Mine Road, continuing as Route NPS 615, is a ride through rolling hills and historic villages.

A Ride Down Old Mine Road

 

Pennsylvania
Along Pennsylvania's Route 209 within the park, farm fileds line the east side of the road, and the Pocono plateau with its many watefalls trails lines the west side of the road.

History along Mc Dade Trail I:
Hialeah to Turn Farm
(south end)

History along McDade Trail II:
Milford Beach to Pitman Orchard
(north end)

Along PA Route 611, south of Interstate 80, three scenic overlooks provide the best places to view the Delaware River as it passes through the Water Gap, a view enjoyed by the 19th century vacationers as well.

Life at the Kittatinny Hotel

 

Wildlife
Viewing and photographing wildlife requires more preparation and timing.

 Eagle-Watching & Birding

The Black BearBears & Safety

LOGO: Share the Experience: Official Federal Recreation Lands PHOTO CONTEST
Share the Experience
Official Federal Recreation Lands PHOTO CONTEST
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A sketch of two mountains and river between them
Park Bulletin:
How the Gap Formed (a basic explanation)
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A black bear standing at the edge of a snowy cornfield
Safety:
Camping & Black Bears/El Acampar y los Osos Negros
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A low long steamboat passing  a riverbank with canoes on it  

Did You Know?
... that a century before this recreation area was formed, the Delaware Water Gap was touted as a Wonder of the World, and drew vacationers via rail lines from Philadelphia and New York City. There were trails to stroll, verandas for viewing the gap, and a steamboat for moonlight cruises.
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Last Updated: May 11, 2007 at 15:46 EST