Delaware Water Gap: History, Hiking Trails and Winter Options

Delaware Water Gap itself is shaped by Appalachian Trail culture, hiking trails and its history as a resort town. You can therefore consider the destination and its winter sports offerings separately.

Skiing and Winter Trails

When winter conditions bring snow, Shawnee Mountain Ski Area offers 23 trails across 125 acres available for skiing, as well as lessons for all ages. These are specific points of reference for travelers who want to include trails and lessons in their winter plans; they do not make the town of Delaware Water Gap itself a ski resort.

Another activity is available on the nearby McDade Recreational Trail: when there is snow, the trail can be used in winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. This gives you a choice of different ways to enjoy the outdoors in a winter setting—ski-area trails or a snow-dependent route for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Which option suits you depends on the activity you want and snow conditions.

The Appalachian Trail and the Landscape

Delaware Water Gap was designated an A.T. Community in June 2014. Appalachian Trail hikers are welcome in town, and A.T. culture is part of the community. The borough’s hiking options, which include many miles of trails, are a good fit. For visitors interested in the long-distance trail, this connection offers a distinctive link to the town without requiring a particular hiking plan.

The landscape is also easy to locate geographically: the Delaware Water Gap is a prominent gap carved by the Delaware River through the Kittatinny Ridge. This landform is in the area around the town of the same name, not within the town itself. It can be seen while driving on Interstate 80 or from overlooks along PA 611. Mount Tammany and Mount Minsi flank the borough and shape its scenic setting.

Resort History and Museum

Delaware Water Gap has a significant history as a resort town. In the 19th century, the village was a center of the early resort industry promoted by the railroads. After the Civil War, it was considered the second-largest inland resort town in the United States. Together, these historical milestones offer a glimpse into the village’s former role as a destination.

The Antoine Dutot Museum shares the history of Delaware Water Gap and features a changing gallery. It is open seasonally from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. A guided historical tour goes through town and to the Castle Inn; a tour of the Castle Inn offers further insight into local history. Former guests of the inn included Enrico Caruso, John Philip Sousa, and Fred Waring and his Pennsylvanians.

Events and Music

The annual Founders Day Festival takes place in June as a town-wide series of events honoring Antoine Dutot. He founded Dutotsburg, now Delaware Water Gap, in 1793. The annual Celebration of the Arts Jazz Festival follows the weekend after Labor Day and features two full days of live music on Saturday and Sunday. Performances take place on the Rick Chamberlain Memorial Stage and at the Deer Head Inn; the festival also features local artisans and food vendors.

The Deer Head Inn is considered the longest continuously operating jazz club in the United States and hosts the jazz festival. Another seasonal music program is presented by the Presbyterian Church of the Mountain: from Memorial Day through Labor Day, outdoor gazebo concerts take place on Sundays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The DWG Cemetery Association also offers seasonal cemetery tours. Check event dates in advance for your travel period.

Getting There and Practical Information

Monroe County Transit Authority stops are located in Delaware Water Gap. Martz Trailways offers bus service from New York City to Delaware Water Gap. Since specific services can change, it is a good idea to check current routes before traveling. This gives you a picture of a stay that combines local history, hiking trails and cultural events with a nearby, snow-dependent winter sports option.

Discover more destinations: Mt Pocono, Cresco, Stroudsburg, Bartonsville, East Stroudsburg, Canadensis, Tannersville, Pocono Pines

For the main travel overview: Monroe.