Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River near Hancock, New York
Note: Reviews of the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River here on National Park Planner pertain to paddling trips, not motor boating.
The Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River is a 73.5-mile section of the Delaware River just south of Hancock, New York, and just north of Port Jarvis, New York. South of Port Jarvis, the river makes a turn to the west and becomes part of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. There is an 8.5-mile gap between these two National Park properties.
The first watercraft launch at the northern terminus of the park is in Hancock at the New York Department of Environmental Conservation facility (NY DEC), and it is for non-motorized watercraft only. Those with motorboats must use the boat ramp farther north in Hancock. The last launch is at the No. 2 Railroad Bridge in Sparrowbush, New York (all boats allowed). In between are 14 other boat launches. National Park Planner has prepared detailed reports with photos (see list below) of the river between each launch point. These reports allow readers to determine which sections of the river are best suited for them.
For those looking for white water, the best trip within the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River is from Mongaup to Sparrowbush, though this is only 3 miles long. There are some decent rapids between Barryville and Mongaup, a 12.5-mile section. If you have time for another two to three miles, continue past Sparrowbush and take out at Matamoras (2.3 miles farther) or Port Jarvis (3 miles farther). This section is actually outside the park boundaries, but that won’t matter to most people. There is a nice run of Class II rapids just downriver from Sparrowbush that is better than those on the Barryville-Mongaup section.
For those looking for a more relaxing trip down the river or who are taking children along, anything prior to Mongaup will suffice. There are a couple of sections that are a little more exciting and might best be avoided by those with toddlers in tow. This information, along with tips on how to avoid getting stuck on rocks, is included in the reviews.
Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River just below the Mongaup Rapids
Keep in mind that water levels change, so you have to know the water levels of the Delaware River as described in the reviews (this information is provided) and compare them with the water levels when you take a trip down the river (levels are measured at various gauges, and links are given to those gauges in each River Section review). Per the National Park Service, water levels between 2.5 feet and 4 feet are average and good for recreational boaters (and I agree). Water levels of the river as described in the reviews were usually within this range, though some of the northern sections had even less water (not a lot of fun getting stuck on rocks). Thus, if the review describes dragging a boat off of rocks and into a deeper channel, and you visit when the water level is even lower than when I did the trip, expect things to be worse. Likewise, sections that I describe as calm when the water levels are 3 feet may be swift flowing with sizable rapids if the water level when you do a trip is 6 feet.
The following water level descriptions are provided by the National Park Service:
- Less than 2.5 feet: These are low water levels with many exposed rocks, especially in the rapids. Narrow channels make rapids difficult to navigate. Plan on a slower trip and expect to scrape rocks or river bottom with your vessel. Shorter trips are recommended. Also, limit the weight in your vessel.
- 2.5 to 4 feet: These are average water levels good for recreational boating, with some rocks exposed in rapids and with waves up to 3 feet. River current is approximately 2 miles per hour.
- 4 to 6 feet: These are moderate water levels with waves between 4 to 5 feet and swift river currents of 2.5 miles per hour or more. Only larger rocks are exposed in rapids with open and wide channels. Increased canoe or kayak skills are requested, and rafting is suggested for less skilled boaters.
- 6-8 feet: These are high water levels with waves up to 6 feet and noticeable hydraulics. Expect a very swift current of 3 miles per hour and above. Higher skill level recommended for open boats, and rafting is recommended for less experienced boaters.
- 8-12 feet: These are very high water levels with very swift currents of 4 miles per hour and above. Increased hydraulics and undercurrents exist. Waves can be up to 8 feet. Floating debris, hazards and obstructions along the shoreline and in rapids are possible. Water temperatures decrease so wet or dry suits are recommended. Properly equipped rafts and/or enclosed boats are recommended. Highest skill level only!
- Over 12 feet: This is approaching flood stage water levels with extreme river current speeds of 6-7 miles per hour and many waves above 8 feet. Violent currents, undercurrents, and whirlpools exist. Floating debris, hazards and obstructions along the shoreline make conditions very dangerous. Maneuvering and rescue is extremely difficult. Boating is not recommended. Flood stage at the Barryville, NY gage is 17 feet.
One life jacket per passenger must be aboard the boat. When water levels are over 6 feet, life jackets must be worn by all boaters, swimmers, and wading fisherman. Children under the age of 13 must always wear a life jacket. Furthermore, everyone must wear a life jacket from November 1st until April 1st regardless of the water level.
RIVER SECTION REVIEWS
Hancock to Buckingham Boat Ramp
Buckingham Boat Ramp to Lordville
Ten Mile River to Lackawaxen (Zane Grey Museum)
Sparrowbush to Matamoras (this section is outside of the park boundaries but has some good rapids)
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Last updated on August 14, 2023
