Delaware Water Gap, Pa.

Delaware Water Gap was designated as an A.T. Community™ in June of 2014. The town is drenched in history and visitors can learn more by visiting the Antoine Dutot Museum. After the Civil War, Delaware Water Gap was the second largest inland resort town in the United States, and by 1906, an advertising pamphlet estimated that over one-half million people visited the Gap annually (with President Theodore Roosevelt being one of them in 1910). One of the main sources of recreation were the miles of mountain paths with vistas at frequent intervals. Many of these paths later became part of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

Because the town was a resort community in its heyday, hospitality is a longstanding tradition in the Gap. A.T. hikers are always welcome, and the town has embraced the A.T. culture into their community. With a variety of restaurants and shops, there is something for everyone. The hotels welcome thru-hikers and also offer long-term parking options for section hikers. A hostel at the Church of the Mountain provides rest and rejuvenation, as well as a weekly potluck dinner for thru-hikers on the Trail. And, with a full-service outfitter right in town, resupply, repair, and shuttle service are simple and easy. In addition, the bus station in town connects Delaware Water Gap to the major cities and airports nearby.

Delaware Water Gap also boasts a rich arts and culture patchwork. The annual Founders Day Festival in June is a town-wide series of events held in honor of Antoine Dutot, who founded Dutotsburg, now Delaware Water Gap, in 1793. Offerings include a fine arts craft show, bands and strolling musicians.  The Delaware Water Gap Celebration of the Arts (COTA) Jazz Fest was founded in 1978 by world-renowned jazz artist and composer Phil Woods, trombonist Rick Chamberlain and local proprietaire du saloon Ed Joubert. The idea was, and still is, to share with their community the art created by the many world-class musicians and artists who call the area home.

Learn more about Delaware Water Gap and upcoming events in town here!

Get Involved

New York-New Jersey Trail Conference

The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a volunteer-powered organization that builds, maintains, and protects public trails. Together with our partners, we strive to ensure that the trails and natural areas we share are sustainable and accessible for all to enjoy for generations to come. For more information and to get involved today, www.nynjtc.org.

ATC Volunteer Program

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is always looking for dedicated volunteers to help maintain the A.T. and assist in our visitor center and headquarters. Opportunities range from greeting visitors and providing information about local hikes to joining a Trail crew for week-long maintenance trips, gaining first-hand experience in what it takes to keep the A.T. open and enjoyable for millions each year. Learn more at appalachiantrail.org/volunteer.