The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation area encompasses 70,000 acres of diverse landscape. Rolling streams, beautiful falls and cascades hemlock and deciduous forest, towering granite cliffs, along with the Delaware River. There are 150 miles of trails ranging from (Easy, Moderate, Difficult).
In the spring you can enjoy the blooming bushes and trees, as well as, wildflowers, albeit not as many as years gone by. The summer offers the river, ponds and streams to cool off. The fall is a time of year that boasts a full palette of colors. I am visiting the National Recreation Area to enjoy the quite, white wonderland of ice and snow. This visit was to Mt. Tammany and the nearby visitor center and Delaware river. Access is right off of Route 80 north, Dunnfield Creek Appalachian Trail, the last exit before crossing the bridge to Pennsylvania. You can pick up the Appalachian trial from here. The hike up to the top of Tammany Mountain is considered difficult and with snow and ice somewhat more hazardous. The top offers vistas of the gap, the Delaware river and the forest.
There is considerable wildlife in this area compared to other New Jersey areas. Bears, foxes, coyotes, bob cats, raccoons, owls, and bats can be seen. During the winter months many of these animals are sheltering and less visible.
The visitor center is located on route 80 East. You can walk from Mt. Tammany parking lot on a paved road which takes you under route 80 to the visitor center. It is about a 5 minute walk. There are trail maps, a Guide to the Gap, and rangers to help you plan your visit. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the visitor center has been closed periodically. The visitor center is near the banks of the Delaware so a short walk will take you down to the river. There are restrooms available in this area. This entire experience is free so skip the spin classes. read more