Top 10 Places to Go Hiking in the Delaware Water Gap
The Delaware Water Gap is a National Recreation Area in the United States located on New Jersey and Pennsylvania borders.
It is one of the most popular places for visitors to engage in outdoor activities such as canoeing, rafting, swimming, fishing, and rock climbing.
If you are thinking of traveling there to admire the beauty of nature and the luscious greenery around you, then hiking and trekking would be the best way to do so.
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced hiker, you can take a variety of routes where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views!
After checking into one of the best beachfront hotels or perhaps some of the best places to visit in Delaware, read on to find the top places to go hiking in the Delaware Water Gap.
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Hornbecks Creek Trail
Hornbeaks Creek Trail may be exactly the getaway you’ve been looking for. The Hornbeck’s Creek Trail, known locally as the Indian Ladders, is one of the best trails in the Delaware Water Gap.
It is only a 6-kilometer (3.7 mi) hiking trail with lush greenery, forests filled with alder, oak, maple, and chestnut trees, mossy creeks, and a waterfall.
It’s more than just easy to moderate hiking and natural beauty, though; it also offers opportunities for bird watching and fishing.
Due to the easy hike (like a casual stroll), you can bring your kids and even your dogs here, which is great to de-stress.
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Buttermilk Falls and Crater Lake Loop Trail
Experience one of the best Delaware water gap hikes at the Buttermilk Falls and Crater Lake Loop Trail. This is an easy-to-moderate trail located on the eastern edge of Pennsylvania near Newton, New Jersey.
It is perfect for casual hikers and children as it is just 6.8 miles (10.9 kilometers) long and usually takes 3 hours and 43 minutes to complete.
The Buttermilk Falls and Crater Lake Loop Trail are open year-round, but the best time to visit is between April and November when the views are said to be at their loveliest.
Some of the scenery to enjoy here includes two lakes, a waterfall, forested areas, boulders, wildflowers, and a wide array of wildlife.
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Slateford Creek Falls
Located on the edge of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area near Mount Bethel in Pennsylvania, Slateford Creek Falls is another popular hiking destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
It may be a short hike, only 1.1 kilometers (0.7 mi) long, but it is considered a difficult hike due to the steep slopes, thick vegetation, and some areas with slippery slopes, especially during the wet season.
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Tumbling Waters Trail
The Tumbling Waters Trail is a loop trail located near Bushkill, Pennsylvania that spans 3 miles (4.8 km) and is moderately difficult.
This is one of the shorter hikes but note some elevation changes. Since surfaces can be slippery after rain, make sure you wear shoes that give a good grip to help keep your feet.
This is one of the more popular trails as you can admire the waterfall, so come as early as possible. There will likely be fewer visitors in the morning, and you’ll see the sunrise too!
It is best visited from March to October. If you plan to bring your dog along, note that they must be kept on a leash.
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Sunfish Pond via Appalachian Trail
The Through Appalachian Trail features a beautiful lake at Sunfish Pond and runs for 9.7 miles (15.6 kilometers). Several spots allow you to take great shots of the lake, so come prepared with your photography equipment if you desire.
It is said to be difficult because some areas can be rocky. It is located near Blairstown, New Jersey, and can get quite crowded during peak season.
The trail is mostly used for hiking, running, camping, and backpacking. Dogs are also allowed but must be kept on a leash.
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Crater Lake Trail
The Crater Lake Trail is a loop hike and is 3.8 miles (6.11 kilometers) round trip, taking approximately one and a half to two hours to complete.
It is considered an easy to moderate difficulty level as it is a fairly short distance. However, it can be slippery during winter due to snow and ice on the ground, so wear proper footwear if you intend to visit during winter. The views from Crater Lake are stunning and will make the trek worth it!
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Mount Mincy Via Appalachian Trail
Mount Mincy is considered one of the best hikes in the Delaware Water Gap via the Appalachian Trail. It spans 5.3 miles (8.5 kilometers) and is considered to be of moderate difficulty.
This hike should take approximately two to three hours, depending on your experience level. The first part of the trail will be more challenging as there are some uphill slopes.
However, the second part will be relatively easy as it will be mostly a straight path. You will be fine with getting lost as this is a well-marked trail.
Like other trails, it becomes slippery in the winter season when ice begins to form on the rocks, so take extra care when hiking during the winter.
The view from this hike is said to be one of the most amazing, where you get to see a waterfall, water gap, and greenery all around you in a single hike.
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Hackers Falls and Raymondskill Falls Loop
For the best Delaware Water Gap hiking experience, check this out. Hackers Falls and Raymondskill Falls Loop is a 2.3-mile (3.7-kilometer) loop trail that’s great for hikers of all skill levels.
On this hike, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of Hacker’s Falls, Pennsylvania’s three-tiered waterfall. Along this loop trail, you’ll be rewarded with views of the Raymondskill Falls Loop.
This is the perfect hike if you are hiking in a large group. You should pack some swimming costumes to take a refreshing dip in the waterfall and recharge after your hike.
Hiking the Delaware Water Gap
The best thing about hiking and trekking is that you get to get some exercise and witness the beauty of Mother Nature at the same time.
On your next weekend getaway, consider visiting one of these, depending on your experience!
Especially in today’s stressful and competitive environment, where we are constantly glued to our mobile phones and computers, disconnecting to reconnect with nature is something we all need to do from time to time.
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