During this past fall, the Friends of the Delaware Canal (FODC) hosted walks along the canal from late September to early November. The walks covered the entire 58.9 mile canal from Bristol to Easton. The walks began with warm summer-like temperatures, and a little rain, and chilly fall winds/temperatures by the time Easton was in sight. It was a joy to accompany the group for the majority of these walks.
These walks were more than just physical activity, or recreation—they were a trip back in time, offering insights into the region’s industrial heritage while providing a peaceful escape into nature. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an outdoor lover, or simply someone looking for a scenic walk, the Delaware Canal offers something for everyone. The walks along the canal these past months, yielded some beautiful scenery, especially with the walks extending deeper into fall, the crisp mornings and the amazing colors made for some wonderful mornings.
Long before the canal became a scenic experience for walkers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts, it was once a vital waterway for transporting goods. The Delaware Canal was constructed in the early 19th century to transport coal, lumber, and other goods between the coal regions of Pennsylvania and markets along the Delaware River. Completed in 1832, the canal’s towpath was used by mules to pull barges, creating an integral link for trade in the region. The canal’s historical significance is apparent along the towpath; you will pass by old locktenders’ houses and remnants of the original canal locks that once helped boats navigate the canal’s varied terrain, twenty-four locks in all.
Walking the Delaware Canal offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, with the waterway acting as a habitat for birds, fish, and other wildlife. Along the way, you might encounter turtles, herons, and ducks gliding across the canal’s calm waters. In spring and summer, wildflowers bloom along the banks, adding splashes of color to the peaceful surroundings. Fall contributes its own palette with the changing leaves, casting golden hues over the canal and its path, while winter transforms it into a quiet, snow-covered wonderland.
The Delaware Canal towpath is generally flat, with very few elevation changes, making it accessible to a wide range of skill levels for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The trail is open year-round, and most sections are easily reachable from local towns, including Bristol, New Hope, and Yardley, just to name a few. If you are looking for a shorter walk, the path can be divided into shorter sections. There are several stores and shops along the canal where you can find unique gifts, delicious food, thirst quenching drinks, and a friendly smile!
The trail is part of the Delaware Canal State Park, which offers many recreational opportunities, including fishing and wildlife watching. The park is well-maintained with convenient access points, picnic areas, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit for all.
There is so much more information and history to explore on the Friends of the Delaware Canal’s website at www.fodc.org. Be sure to check for updates on the 2025 canal walk!