7-Mile Delaware River Towpath Loop – NJ/PA Canal Trail Hike

Join me for a scenic 7-mile hike along the Delaware River and historic canal towpaths, plus lunch.

Summary:

• Distance: 7.3 miles
• Pace: 3.0+ mph (moderate pace)
• Time: Approximately 3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate - Distance and pace require a reasonable fitness level. Be aware of your own fitness level and be prepared to keep up.
• Bathrooms: Public bathrooms are available at the start and end of the hike, as well as along the towpath shortly after we cross the bridge at Stockton
• Trail Surface: Mostly flat and consists primarily of crushed stone towpaths and some paved sections, making for an easy and pleasant walking surface.
• Note: In the event of rain or severe weather, the hike will be canceled.

Details:
With warmer weather arriving, it’s the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful Delaware River corridor.

Step Back Into the Age of Canal Boats

Before railroads crisscrossed the country, goods moved through this region by canal boat, pulled slowly along these very paths by teams of mules. The quiet trails we’ll be walking were once busy transportation corridors linking farms, towns, and cities along the Delaware River.

On this hike we’ll follow portions of those historic towpaths along the river, crossing between New Jersey and Pennsylvania while enjoying scenic views, peaceful canals, and charming river towns. We’ll end at a location near Lumberville for lunch (see below).

We’ll make a few brief stops along the way to admire points of interest, take photos, and allow the group to regroup.

I look forward to seeing old friends, familiar faces, and new ones. Hope you can join us! 😊

The Plan:

• Start in New Jersey at Bull’s Island in Delaware and Raritan (D&R) Canal State Park
• Follow the D&R Canal towpath south toward Stockton
• Cross the river into Pennsylvania via Centre Bridge
• Continue north along the Delaware Canal State Park towpath
• End near Lumberville for lunch (see Note below)
• Cross back into New Jersey via the Bull’s Island Footbridge
• Return to the Bull’s Island parking area

Note:
Join the group for food, drinks, and post-hike conversation nearby at either:
• Black Bass Hotel
• Lumberville General Store
Final choice will depend on how many people would like to go.

Gear/food/drink, etc.:

• Sneakers are recommended
• Wear weather-appropriate clothes
• Bring plenty of water, plus snacks to hold you over

Parking:
There are two parking lots at Bulls Island Recreational Center. The first will be on your right as you enter the area at the intersection of Danielle Bray Highway and Quarry Road. If you continue straight and cross the bridge, you will see the second larger parking area.

Please be aware and read all parking signs, and be especially careful not to leave anything in your car in plain sight. It’s your responsibility to be safe, to protect your belongings and to ensure that you are not ticketed or towed,

Public Transportation:
Unfortunately, I don’t think this location is accessible by public transportation. If anyone is aware of public transportation to this area, please post in comments.

Waiver of Liability:
By joining this hike or activity organized by Fabulous Philly Friends Meetup group, you acknowledge that outdoor activities involve risks, including injury, illness, or death. You voluntarily participate at your own risk and agree to assume full responsibility for any harm or loss you may suffer. You hereby agree to release and hold harmless Fabulous Philly Friends, its organizers, volunteers, and members from any liability, claims, or demands arising from participation, including those caused by negligence. You affirm you are physically able to participate and understand this waiver is binding. You also consent to the use of any photos taken for group purposes.