The Pocono Mountains in northeastern Pennsylvania offer a wealth of canoeing opportunities along hundreds of lakes and rivers. Head out on the water on a self-guided adventure or rely on one of the local guide companies to show you the highlights. While you're on the water, watch for the abundant wildlife the area is home to, including eagles, hawks, deer and black bear. Plan on canoeing anytime from April through October for the best water and weather conditions.
Planning Your Trip
Bring your own canoe or plan to rent one once you reach the area. Make sure you bring life jackets for everyone in your vessel. If you plan to fish, you'll need to buy a Pennsylvania state fishing license, available at sporting goods stores or at bait and tackle shops along the way. Carry and use plenty of mosquito spray to keep the bugs away.
Where to Go
The Delaware River and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offer great paddling along with plenty of scenic landscapes. The Delaware River is a National Scenic and Recreational River protected by the National Park Service. Along the way, you're likely to spot a wide variety of birds and wildlife while gaining a historical perspective about the Native Americans who lived in the area.
Canoe Rentals
With canoeing so popular in the Poconos, you'll find canoe rentals in many places. If you're a first-time canoeist, most shops are willing to give you a few lessons on handling your vessel. When you rent your canoe, ask for a river map so you can get ideas on what to see and do along the river. You'll find rental canoes and maps in towns near the Delaware River, including Marshalls Creek, Mount Bethell and Peckes Pond.
Guided Adventures
A number of companies offer guided adventures for both new and experienced paddlers. Some of the companies offer half-day trips, ideal if you're canoeing for the first time. Or you can take longer, full-day trips that take you through exciting whitewater rapids. A few guides offer multiple-day expeditions down the length of the rivers with camping, gourmet meals and plenty of other outdoor recreation included.
Other Activities
Along with canoeing, you'll find 261 miles of hiking trails in the Pocono Mountains with numerous trails starting along the river. Give the Appalachian trail a try or head to Hickory Run State Park, which has more than 40 miles of trails. As you canoe down the river, watch for islands and beaches on which you can stop for a few hours and enjoy swimming and fishing. You'll also find great picnic spots along the way. Bring snorkeling gear to enjoy looking under the water in some of the deeper spots along the way.
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