Delaware Canal State Park

Delaware Canal State Park is a Pennsylvania state park that follows a historic 19th century canal corridor along the Delaware River. The park protects a linear stretch of canal and its towpath totaling about 60 miles of continuous recreational trail.

The park’s primary feature is the canal towpath, which offers approximately 60 miles of level walking, running, and cycling route alongside the river. The towpath passes through small towns and scenic river landscapes and is commonly used for birdwatching, fishing from the canal banks, and paddle access to the Delaware River.

The canal was built in the 19th century to transport anthracite coal and other commodities along the Delaware River corridor; commercial use declined with the spread of railroads. The canal corridor was later preserved and is managed as a state park to protect the historic canal structures and provide recreational access.

The park runs along the western bank of the Delaware River in eastern Pennsylvania, roughly between Easton in the north and Bristol in the south, passing through Bucks and Northampton counties and adjacent to numerous small riverside towns.

• Length: The canal and its towpath extend roughly 60 miles along the Delaware River from the Lehigh River at Easton downstream to Bristol, providing a continuous corridor for walking and cycling.
• Best time to visit: Best visited in spring through fall for towpath use, wildlife viewing, and boat activity on the river; winter sections may be icy and some facilities are seasonal.