Delaware Water Gap

1. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area History

• Why is the Delaware River prone to flooding?
  • The Delaware River frequently floods due to heavy seasonal snowmelt and rainstorms, which lead to significant run-off.
• What caused the record flooding of the Delaware River in 1955?
  • In 1955, two hurricanes, Hurricane Connie and Hurricane Diane, struck in the same week, resulting in record-breaking flooding on August 19.
  • The Riegelsville, Pennsylvania river gauge recorded a crest of 38.85 feet for the Delaware River’s flood stage.
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• What was the Army Corps of Engineers' response to the 1955 flood?
  • In response to the disaster, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers developed a plan for a dam, a 37-mile lake, and a recreational area to mitigate future floods.
• What controversy surrounded the project?
  • The plan faced significant opposition due to the forced displacement of around 15,000 people.
  • Between 3,000 and 5,000 buildings, including historically significant facilities, were demolished.
• Why was the project ultimately abandoned?
  • The government decided to forgo the project due to strong opposition and lack of funding.
• What happened to the abandoned project?
  • In 1978, the National Park Service took over the project.
  • They reorganized plans and construction, leading to the creation of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

2. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Attractions

• Can visitors explore the entire Delaware Water Gap?
  • Yes, visitors are allowed to explore all 70,000 acres of the Delaware Water Gap.
• What general areas can visitors explore?
  • Visitors can explore river access points, the Delaware Water Gap itself, and numerous waterfalls.
• What recreational activities are available?
  • Popular activities include hiking, biking, swimming, and many other outdoor recreational experiences.
• What are the main attractions within the Delaware Water Gap?
  • Visitors Centers: There are four Visitor Centers across different regions, each providing park information, resources, and educational opportunities.
  • Millbrook Village: Located near the Columbia-Walpack Turnpike, this historic village features buildings dating back to 1832, including the Van Campens Mill Brook.
  • Foster Armstrong House & Neldon-Roberts Stonehouse: These sites showcase historically restored houses from the 1700s.
  • Walpack Center & Van Campen Inn: A mix of a historical museum and a shelter, these locations were frequently used in Colonial times as stops for travelers.

3. Delaware Water Gap Attractions and Hiking

Hiking Trails comprise a large portion of this national recreation area. The Delaware Water Gap is home to over fifty hiking trails that are spread out across the area’s northern, southern, and middle areas. Some of the hiking trails include the:

· Buchanan (1.1 Miles)

· McDade Recreation (31 miles)

· Upper Ridge Road (2.5 miles)

· Appalachian (28 miles)

· Pioneer (2.5 miles)

· Toms Creak (0.8 miles)

· Blue Blaze (1.7 miles)

· Dunnfield Creek (3.5 miles)

· Turquoise (1.1 miles)

For more information about the Delaware Water Gap’s hiking trails, visit the Gap’s official website. It’s important to establish the length, area, and difficult of the trail, as well as any potential weather or environmental conflicts, before committing to a hike.

4. Educational Opportunities

• Does the Delaware Water Gap offer educational opportunities?
  • Yes, the Delaware Water Gap provides a variety of educational opportunities through its Visitor Centers and historical landmarks.
• What types of educational programs are available?
  • Visitors can participate in classes, workshops, specialized tours, and presentations.
• Where can I find more details about specific educational programs?
  • For detailed information, visit the specific webpage or location for a designated Visitor Center or historical landmark.

5. Delaware Water Gap Special Events

• Does the Delaware Water Gap host special events?
  • Yes, the Delaware Water Gap hosts a variety of special events throughout the year.
• Where can I find an updated list of upcoming events?
  • For the latest schedule, check out the Delaware Water Gap’s official online calendar.
• What is Maple Sugar Day?
  • Maple Sugar Day is an annual event that celebrates the start of spring with maple sugaring.
  • The event is held at Millbrook Village and runs from 10 AM to 3 PM.
  • Admission is free for all attendees.

6. Plan your Visit

• Are there bookstores at the Delaware Water Gap?
  • Yes, there are four bookstores, each located within one of the four Visitor Centers.
• What are the bookstore hours?
  • The bookstores operate during the same hours as the Visitor Centers.
• What items can visitors find at the bookstores?
  • The bookstores offer a variety of items, including educational souvenirs, toys, apparel, drinkware, and other gifts.

1978 River Road Bushkill, PA 18324, Phone: 570-426-2452

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