FAQ

The Friends of the Delaware Canal is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, improving, and interpreting the Delaware Canal and its towpath. Founded in 1982, FODC works in partnership with Delaware Canal State Park to ensure the Canal remains a vibrant historical, recreational, and ecological resource for the public.

The Delaware Canal was completed in 1832 and operated as a commercial waterway for nearly a century, transporting anthracite coal from northeastern Pennsylvania to Philadelphia and beyond. It is one of the last remaining towpath canals in the United States and now serves as the centerpiece of a state park enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, paddlers, and history enthusiasts.

The Locktender’s House is a preserved 19th-century residence once home to the workers who operated the Canal locks. Located in New Hope, PA, the house now serves as the Friends’ headquarters and visitor center. It is open to the public during special events and posted hours.

You can view or download a full Canal map on our website. The map includes entry points, parking areas, historic features, and trail segments to help you plan your visit.

Loop Trails are popular routes that combine portions of the Canal towpath with nearby bridges or roadways to form scenic loops—great for walking, running, or biking. These loops vary in length and offer a convenient way to experience the Canal without retracing your steps.

The Landmark and Mileage Chart lists key locations along the Canal—from river towns and locks to aqueducts and trailheads—along with their mile markers. It’s a helpful reference for planning your route or gauging distances between stops.

The Delaware Canal corridor is home to diverse plant and animal life. You may spot great blue herons, turtles, foxes, frogs, and a wide variety of songbirds. Native wildflowers and wetlands vegetation flourish along the trail, providing a rich and changing natural landscape throughout the seasons.

Visitors are welcome to explore the towpath on foot—for walking, jogging, or hiking—and by bicycle on designated trails. Canoes and kayaks are permitted in the Canal waterway. However, horseback riding is not permitted on any part of the towpath.