The Poconos from NYC — Kayaking, Waterfalls & Mountains

The Pocono Mountains occupy the northeastern corner of Pennsylvania, separated from New Jersey by the Delaware River. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area alone encompasses 70,000 acres and 40 miles of river — the most accessible outdoor terrain within 90 minutes of Manhattan.

Kayaking the Delaware

The upper Delaware River between the Water Gap and Port Jervis is one of the best flatwater kayaking corridors in the Northeast — calm enough for beginners, long enough for a full day on the water. Several outfitters along Route 209 north of the Gap rent kayaks, canoes, and tubes by the day and offer shuttle service.

Bushkill Falls

Called the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," Bushkill Falls is a series of eight waterfalls accessible via trails ranging from a 15-minute walk to the main falls to a two-hour loop visiting all eight. The site is privately owned and charges a modest entrance fee.

Lehigh Gorge & Jim Thorpe

The Lehigh River cuts through a dramatic gorge south of White Haven. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway runs train excursions through the gorge. Jim Thorpe at the gorge's southern end is a Victorian-era coal town reinvented as an outdoor recreation gateway, with good restaurants and whitewater rafting outfitters.

Getting There

Take the Lincoln Tunnel or George Washington Bridge to I-80 west into Pennsylvania. The Delaware Water Gap visitor center is at Exit 310, approximately 75 miles from Midtown. A car is essential for all Pocono destinations.

Where to Stay

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