Paulinskill Valley and Delaware Water Gap Loop

The terrain is quite varied. The Paulinskill Valley Trail section primarily features cinder, dirt, and gravel, which can be rough, rutted, or muddy after rain. A hybrid or mountain bike with wide tires is highly recommended. In the Delaware Water Gap area, you'll encounter packed gravel, jeep roads, quiet country roads, and some technical singletrack with steep, rocky sections. Paved roads and a pedestrian bridge also form part of the loop.

This loop is generally rated from moderate to difficult for touring cyclists. While the Paulinskill Valley Trail is mostly flat, its variable surface can add technical challenge. The Delaware Water Gap section significantly increases the difficulty with considerable elevation gains and potentially steep, unpaved segments that might require dismounting and pushing your bike. Good physical fitness is recommended.

You'll experience diverse scenery, from the rural landscapes and dense woodlands of the Paulinskill Valley, featuring the impressive Paulinskill Viaduct, to the dramatic vistas of the Delaware Water Gap with its towering cliffs and the expansive Delaware River. Keep an eye out for the Portland-Columbia Pedestrian Bridge, and enjoy views of waterfalls like Dingmans Falls and Raymondskill Falls in the Water Gap area.

The loop offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Along the Paulinskill Valley Trail, you might see bear, bobcat, deer, and various bird species. The diverse ecosystems from riverine environments to dense forests support a rich array of fauna throughout the entire route.

Spring and fall are generally the best times to cycle this loop. The weather is typically milder, and the natural scenery is vibrant with spring blooms or autumn foliage. Summer can be pleasant, but be prepared for potential heat and humidity, and be aware that some sections of the Paulinskill Valley Trail can become very muddy after heavy rainfall.

Parking is available at various access points along the Paulinskill Valley Trail and within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Specific parking areas can be found near towns like Blairstown or Columbia, NJ, and Portland, PA. It's advisable to check specific trailhead parking availability depending on your chosen starting point.

Yes, the Paulinskill Valley Trail and many parts of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area are dog-friendly. Dogs are generally permitted but must be kept on a leash. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and clean up after your pet.

Generally, there are no specific permits or fees required for cycling the Paulinskill Valley Trail or the main cycling routes within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. However, if your route passes through or utilizes facilities within Worthington State Forest, standard state park regulations apply. While there are no entrance fees for the forest itself, certain amenities or specific activities might have associated costs. Always check the official New Jersey State Park website for the latest information on regulations and any potential fees for specific areas or activities.

Yes, this loop connects with several other trails, offering opportunities for extended touring. Notable intersecting trails include sections of the 9-11 Trail (New Jersey thru route), the 9-11 Trail (Pennsylvania thru route), BicyclePA Route V, and portions of the Appalachian Trail. The Paulinskill Valley Trail itself also links to other regional rail-trails like the Sussex Branch and Great Valley Trails.

While the route passes through some small towns, amenities like cafes, pubs, and restrooms are not consistently available directly on the trail sections, especially along the more remote parts of the Paulinskill Valley Trail. It's recommended to plan your stops in towns like Blairstown, NJ, or Portland, PA, and carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer stretches.

Given the varied terrain, which includes gravel, dirt, and potentially muddy sections, a touring bicycle, hybrid, or mountain bike with wide tires is highly recommended. Road bikes are generally not suitable for the unpaved and sometimes rough conditions found on significant portions of this loop.