Exploring Delaware Canal State Park
Encompassing more than 300,000 acres, Pennsylvania's 124 state parks offer residents and visitors a myriad of outdoor recreation activities — from hiking, biking and boating to environmental and historical programs. Two of these state parks are listed as National Historic Landmarks, one being Delaware Canal State Park here in Bucks County. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll along the towpath, a bike ride through lush landscapes or a chance to immerse yourself in the rich history of the region, Delaware Canal State Park is the perfect place to unwind during your getaway to the Inn at Bowman's Hill.
The crowning jewel of the park is the Delaware Canal, a historic waterway that once played a vital role in the transportation of goods and commodities during the 19th century. Today, the canal serves as a serene backdrop for recreational activities. The towpath that runs for 60 miles alongside the canal is perfect for leisurely walks or invigorating jogs, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. As you traverse the path, you'll be greeted by charming stone bridges, quaint lock houses and remnants of the canal's industrial past.
For cycling enthusiasts, Delaware Canal State Park offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the area on two wheels. The flat and well-maintained towpath is ideal for biking, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride for cyclists of all levels. You can rent bicycles from nearby outfitters, such as New Hope Cyclery, or bring your own and embark on a scenic journey along the canal. As you pedal, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that call the park home, including blue herons, bald eagles, otters and white-tailed deer. In addition to the 60-mile towpath trail, hikers and bikers will want to check out the six loop trails that connect Pennsylvania’s Delaware Canal State Park and New Jersey’s Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, which both parallel the Delaware River.
And there's so much more to do at the park! Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines into the canal and try their luck at catching American shad, smallmouth bass, walleye and other warm-water game fish. (Be sure to purchase a fishing license.) Paddlers can enjoy kayaking and canoeing on the canal, the Delaware River and the Giving Pong Recreation Area. In the wintertime, the snow-covered towpath provides spectacular terrain for cross-country skiing, and the canal, when frozen, is a big draw for ice skaters and hockey players.
If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the interpretive centers and historical sites scattered throughout the park. Learn about the significance of the canal and its impact on the region's development through the artifacts and exhibits at the Locktender's House at Lock 11. This restored early 19th-century house serves as the first interpretive center within Delaware Canal State Park and as headquarters for the Friends of the Delaware Canal. The park also hosts special events and programs throughout the year, including educational workshops and cultural festivals.
If you're seeking tranquility in nature, a dose of outdoor adventure or a chance to delve into history, Delaware Canal State Park has it all. So pack your walking shoes, grab your bicycle or launch your kayak, and embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Pennsylvania's most enchanting state parks.
