Upper Delaware

Location: Southern New York (about 110 miles northwest of New York City).

Length of trips: Callicoon to Narrowsburg 13 miles in five hours; Narrowsburg to Minisink Ford 15 miles in seven hours; Minisink Ford to Port Jervis 18 miles in eight hours.

Season: Mid-April through October. The water flow usually peaks in spring.

Weather: Spring and fall can be cool, with temperatures ranging from 35° to 65°F. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging between 65° and 90°.

Lodging: Campgrounds in groves of trees or on grassy flats.

Boats: Kayaks, paddle rafts.

Rapids: Class I and a few Class II. The water is generally clear, except during heavy rainfall. The water temperature ranges from 32° to 65°.

Special features:

  • Easy access from many towns along the river.
  • Thick pine forests and lush pastureland make the Delaware one of the most scenic eastern rivers.
  • Spring wildflowers.
  • Spectacular fall foliage.
  • Muskrats, minks, raccoons, beavers, snapping turtles, hawks, owls.
  • Good fishing for trout (brown, rainbow), smallmouth bass, walleye, white suckers, fallfish, and American eel.
  • Suitable for novice as well as experienced rafters, families, seniors in good physical condition, and the physically challenged who are comfortable in and around the water.

Nearby excursions:

  • Delaware Water Gap.
  • Minisink Battleground Park.
  • Grey Towers National Historic Landmark in Milford, Pennsylvania.
  • Zane Grey Museum in Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania.

For a list of outfitters and more information:

  • Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, R.R. 2, Box 2428, Beach Lake, Pennsylvania 18405-9737; +1 717 685 4871, fax +1 717 685 4874. Try to book at least two weeks in advance.
  • New York State Division of Tourism, One Commerce Plaza, Albany, New York 12245; +1 518 474 4116 or 800 225 5697, fax +1 518 486 6416. Try to book at least two weeks in advance.

 
 
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