With over 150 miles of trails, a pristine river and roaring waterfalls, it’s no wonder that Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area draws millions of visitors each year. In fact, out of the National Park Service’s 400+ sites, Delaware Water Gap was the 14^th most visited location in 2022. That’s more visits than Yosemite, for comparison.

The park is named for the iconic “gap” where the Delaware River carved its way through the mountain ridge. It creates a dramatic plunge between the steep slopes of Mount Minsi on the Pennsylvania side and the rocky cliffs of Mount Tammany on the New Jersey side. But the gap is just the beginning of what this 70,000-acre park has to offer.

The Delaware River runs the length of the park for about 40 miles, providing endless opportunities for fishing and boating. Meanwhile, the hiking trails boast dozens of vistas and waterfalls (including some of the tallest falls in the state). You can even walk along a section of the legendary Appalachian Trail.

Delaware Water Gap is so vast, it’s hard to know where to even start. We’ve rounded up some highlights from the Pennsylvania side of the park, which extends from Milford to the town of Delaware Water Gap. Grab a park map and check out these must-see spots.

Raymondskill Falls

Delaware Water Gap is home to countless waterfalls, but Raymondskill Falls is one that you just can’t miss. At about 150 feet high, it’s the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania. Two viewing platforms will give you an up-close look and great photo ops.

To reach the falls, take the Raymondskill Creek Trail at Cliff Park, located just south of Milford. The trail is 0.3 mile one-way with some steep sections and uneven terrain. Still, it’s generally an easy, family-friendly trail.

Note: For 2023, during the busy summer season, as a result of heavy traffic causing various safety issues at the park, the National Park Service will be instituting shuttle-only access to Raymondskill Falls on weekends and holidays. The shuttle can be accessed at the Milford Knob Trailhead on the north end of the park. The shuttle will run every 20 minutes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The parking lot at Raymondskill Falls will reopen for visitors on weekdays.

Dingmans Creek Trail

Keep chasing those waterfall views on the Dingmans Creek Trail near Dingmans Ferry. This popular route includes two breathtaking falls in one short, easy walk.

Just a few minutes in, you’ll come across Silverthread Falls. This thin, ribbon-like waterfall is about 80 feet tall. But the best views are yet to come. Continue along the boardwalk path, and you’ll reach the base of Dingmans Falls. This waterfall is the second tallest in Pennsylvania at 130 feet tall. A short, steep staircase will lead you to the top of the falls for even more views.

The Dingmans Creek Trail is 0.4 mile one-way. The path is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers to the base of the falls.

Pocono Environmental Education Center

The Pocono Environmental Education Center is the education partner of the National Park Service in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Located in Dingmans Ferry, this nonprofit organization provides fun, hands-on nature programs for schools, families and the public.

The center is home to six public hiking trails ranging from short nature walks to longer, more advanced treks. For some of the best views, try the Tumbling Waters Trail. This moderate three-mile loop trail leads to a secluded waterfall and an overlook of the Delaware Valley.

McDade Recreational Trail

The McDade Recreational Trail stretches over 30 miles—nearly the entire length of the park. From riverside views to rural farmland to dense forests, this hiking and biking trail gives you a glimpse of the park’s diverse habitats.

The trail goes from Milford Beach in the north to the Hialeah trailhead in the south. With over a dozen trailheads, it’s easy to break the trail up into smaller sections. Some areas are flat and leisurely, while other parts are steep and challenging, like the ridge near the park headquarters in Bushkill.

Hornbecks Creek Trails

Get off the beaten path with the Lower and Upper Hornbecks Creek Trails. These trails are quieter than some of the other waterfall trails but still offer unforgettable views.

Lower Hornbecks Creek Trail is a two-mile out-and-back trail that begins off of Route 209 near Dingmans Ferry. It follows an old roadway, so it’s generally flat and easy. The trail ends at a 20-foot-tall waterfall.

Upper Hornbecks Creek Trail is a bit more rugged. From the dirt parking lot on Emery Road, it’s a relatively short walk to the waterfall. Or you can make a longer adventure by parking at Pocono Environmental Education Center, taking the Scenic Gorge Trail to the Ridgeline Trail and continuing to Upper Hornbecks.

Delaware River Trips

The Delaware River is the longest undammed river east of the Mississippi. Spend a day on the water, and you’ll see why American Rivers named it the 2020 River of the Year.

This section of the river boasts serene, wild beauty. The water is generally beginner-friendly with a few riffles here and there, making it perfect for kayaking and canoeing. Rafts are great options for groups and families, or you can hop in a tube and simply float along with the current.

No boat? No problem. Several outfitters offer river trips complete with boat rentals, gear and a shuttle. They offer everything from short, family-friendly trips to multi-day camping adventures.