Towpath Talk

Since Tropical Storm Ida hit Pennsylvania in September 2021, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has been working to replace key infrastructure damaged by the deluge. Specifically, the Lumberville Aqueduct was so undermined by the flooding and debris that it had to be removed. In the case of the High Falls Creek sub-canal culvert pipe, the storm pretty much took care of the removal, taking the pipe and towpath out toward the river, leaving behind a large gaping expanse.

Over the past five years, DCNR, along with other agencies, has re-engineered these structures to withstand the pressures of increasingly violent storms. And today, we are happy to report that both projects have been completed, opening the towpath to travelers once more.

So, if you like to roam the Delaware River Valley, the Delaware Canal towpath is a perfect way to enjoy a summer stroll or bike ride. From Bristol to Easton, with one break in the towpath in New Hope, the path is clear.

Visitors can now enjoy a summer stroll from Lumberville to Point Pleasant with a stop for lunch at one of the many dining spots along the way. Or take a leisurely bike ride from inicum Park to Riegelsville. Stop in at the Homestead General Store for a cup of their fresh-roasted coffee before passing over the new High Falls section of the towpath.

With these repairs finally completed, you can take advantage of more loop trails. The loop between Uhlerstown, PA and Frenchtown, NJ takes you down to Center Bridge, PA and into Stockton, NJ for the return ride, an 18.9-mile round trip. Shorter loops include the round-trip between Lumberville and Bulls Island (a 7.3-mile loop through Center Bridge, PA, to Stockton, NJ) and the loop between Center Bridge and Stockton (a 7.1-mile loop through New Hope, PA, and Lambertville, NJ).

Further south, you can enjoy a loop ride between Washington Crossing, PA, ending in Washington Crossing, NJ. And the last of the loops will take you from Lower Makefield down to Morrisville and back to Pennsylvania on the Jersey side through Trenton.

With summer now upon us, it is a perfect time to enjoy the vistas, wildlife, and quaint small-town charm found all along the Delaware Canal
and Towpath.