NATURE & SCIENCE

Satellite image of the Delaware Water Gap NRA and Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River. North is at the top. The park boundary is in red. The Water Gap is at the lower left. The yellow line is the Appalachian Trail as it makes its way thru the park for over 22 miles.

NPS Photo

The recreation area encompasses over 70,000 acres of floodplains, forrest, and mountain ridges on both sides of the Delaware River in the states of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Among the more abundant species of animals in the park are black bear, timber rattlesnakes, bald eagles, and while not abundant, we even have endangered peregrine falcons. Ecosystems include hemlock ravines with massive rhodendrons, ridgetops with native prickly pear cactus, and bountiful blueberry patches that are a favorite food of the local wildlife.

With over 20 miles of Appalachian Trail and 40 miles of the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River within the park, boasting numerous trout streams, lakes, ponds, and some of the highest waterfalls and the most beautiful views found in either state, the park is a place to experience the best nature has to offer us. Water quality within the park is exceptional and the Delaware river flowing thru the park provides clean drinking water to millions of families along the east coast to include the cities of New York and Philadelphia. The river's path through the mountains includes the S-curves of Walpack Bend and the dominating landmark, the Delaware Water Gap with its hiking trails, water access for boating, kayaking, and canoeing and scenic views. With 40 miles of shoreline on each side of the river, there are plenty of places for you to get away from it all and just relax. Come see for yourself and #FindYourPark #EcuentraTuParque

 

Resource Monitoring in the Park

ERM Inventory & Monitoring Network