Visit
The Towpath Trail
The Towpath Trail
Embark on a Journey Through American History Along the Delaware Canal
Explore Delaware Canal State Park’s 58.89-mile towpath, tracing American history along the Delaware River from Easton to Bristol. Encounter a historic canal, 50-acre pond, riverside landscapes, and 11 islands.
The Towpath Trail Map
The map illustrates the 58.89-mile -long towpath trail.
At the south end of New Hope, you may need help navigating the path between South Main Street and where the trail picks up again just south of the former Odette’s restaurant and Lock 8.
Sharing the Towpath Trail
Be Courteous
All trail users should be respectful of other users regardless of their speed or level of skill.
Go Slow
There’s so much to see along the Delaware Canal. Don’t miss it by speeding by too quickly. Enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
Be Informed
Please check trail signs and use maps.
Signal When Passing
Cyclists should yield to all other trail users. Hikers and joggers should yield to equestrians. Remember, pass on the left. Give a clear warning signal such as “on your left” or ringing a bell.
Low Bridges And Blind Spots
Be mindful of low bridge clearances and limited lines of sight; be prepared to walk a bicycle under these structures when necessary.
Don’t Block The Trail
When in a group, including your pets, use no more than half of the trail.
Stay On The Trail
For nearly all its length, the Delaware Canal State Park property is only 60 feet wide. Do not wander onto adjoining private properties.
Keep The Canal Clean
The park’s policy is “carry in, carry out.” And we appreciate those who clean up along the way, too!
Special Tips for Hikers, Runners and Dog Walkers
- Stay to the right of the trail and pass on the left
- Safe multi-use requires cooperation
- Announce yourself when overtaking other trail users
- When hiking or jogging with a dog, obey posted leash regulations.
- Keep a short leash on your dog when passing or being passed by other trail users
- Remember – Other trail users may be frightened by dogs and unsure of how to pass safely
- Please clean up after your dog. It is common courtesy and it’s the law
Loop Trails
For 30 magnificent miles, the towpath trails of Pennsylvania’s Delaware Canal State Park and New Jersey’s Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park parallel the Delaware River.
- Hike or bike one loop — or combine loops
- Explore river towns
- Enjoy the outdoors
- Take in the river views
- Immerse yourself in history
- Have fun!
Downloads & Related Links
Landmarks and Mileage
In addition to landmarks, the Delaware Canal Landmark and Mileage chart shows parking, picnic and restroom facilities. The chart is based on the results of a comprehensive 1964 survey of the entire length of the Delaware Canal, conducted to locate physical landmark features such as locks, bridges and waste gates.
The chart below is an abridged version of the most important landmarks along the Canal. For a full list of landmarks, including GPS coordinates, download the PDF. To see the map for a specific location, simply open the PDF, then copy and paste the latitude (second column from the right) and longitude (far right column) into a map locator such as Google Maps, separating each set of coordinates with a space. Then click “enter” or “return” to view the map.
Mile Markers
The Mile Marker chart lists Delaware Canal milestones, with information about donors, dedications, locations, and status. The placement of these black granite markers was made possible through generous donations in response to a drive conducted by the Friends.
Placement of the markers is in accord with the 1964 Canal Survey, per the Delaware
Canal Landmark and Mileage Chart. Most mile markers can be found on the east edge
of the towpath trail.
Political Boundaries
Want to make your voice heard about the Canal but not sure who to contact? This chart lists the municipality and elected official responsible for each segment of the Delaware Canal.
Historical Map
This map originally appeared in the book Delaware and Lehigh Canals, published by the Center for Canal History and Technology. It’s available from Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums, Inc., P.O. Box 877, Easton, PA 18044-0877. Topographical maps of the Delaware Canal are available from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) in Denver, Colorado 80225 or Reston, Virginia 22092.
Ask for the following map numbers:
– 40075-A1-TM-100 Reading
– 40074-A1-TB-100 Trenton
– 40075-E1-TM-100 Allentown
Delaware Canal State Park
Delaware Canal State Park offers a wide variety of environmental, recreational, and historical programs.
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
With over 70 miles of linear multi-use path along an historic canal and additional trail networks and connections across several counties, park visitors have much to see, experience and explore here.
Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor
Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor preserves, interprets and leverages the nationally significant history of the over 165-mile transportation route between Wilkes-Barre and Bristol, Pennsylvania.