Explore the Lehigh River!
The Lehigh River Water Trail is 72-miles long, starting in White Haven, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania and ending in the City of Easton, Northampton County, where the Lehigh River meets its confluence with the Delaware River. The Lehigh River is a state-designated Scenic River that boasts a diversity of plants, fish, and wildlife.
WHAT IS A WATER TRAIL?
Water trails like the Lehigh River Water Trail are navigable waterways suitable for canoes, kayaks, and small motorized watercraft.
Like conventional trails, water trails are recreational corridors between specific locations. Water trails are comprised of access points, boat launches, day use sites and – in some cases – overnight camping areas.
Each water trail is a unique reflection of Pennsylvania’s diverse geology, ecology, and communities.
As a Pennsylvania water trail, The Lehigh River Water Trails embraces the Leave No Trace code of outdoor ethics that promotes the responsible use and enjoyment of the outdoors.
Whitewater Adventures: Northern Section
This 41-mile segment of the Lehigh River Water Trail begins in White Haven, with an access point to the Lehigh Gorge State Park, and ends at Lehigh Gap along the Carbon-Lehigh-Northampton counties border. At the Gap, the Lehigh River cuts through the Kittatinny Ridge or “Blue Mountain,” an ecologically important conservation area.
Deep gorges and fast-moving whitewater, as well as scenic beauty, characterize this section of the water trail. Substantial canoeing or kayaking experience is required to paddle most sections in this reach of the Lehigh River. It contains several access points and covers 26 miles of Lehigh Gorge State Park. Special whitewater safety regulations are required to paddle within the state park.
Relaxing Waters: Southern Section
This 31-mile segment of the Lehigh River Water Trail begins at Lehigh Gap, Carbon County and moves through the Lehigh Valley to end at the confluence of the Lehigh River and Delaware River in the City of Easton.
This reach of the Lehigh River Water Trail widens out, offering flatter, more relaxing waters than the northern section. The land around the river is characterized by rolling hills and forested riparian corridors. The Lehigh River contains numerous access points in this section and passes through the urban centers of Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton.
Lehigh River Water Trail Partners
