D&R Canal Towpath at Trenton Golf course

The Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath offers a remarkable long-distance hiking experience, tracing a historic waterway through diverse New Jersey landscapes. You'll traverse a mostly flat, hard-packed path, often crushed stone, that meanders through woodlands, past marshlands, and alongside the Delaware River, providing picturesque views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The route is dotted with 19th-century historical structures like bridge-tender houses and old locks, making it a journey through time as much as through nature. This difficult 71.2-mile (114.6 km) trail, with 599 feet (183 metres) of elevation gain, is a significant undertaking, requiring approximately 28 hours and 55 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to the D&R Canal Towpath requires consideration for its extensive length. While the trail is open year-round, spring and fall provide the most comfortable hiking conditions. Access points and parking are available in various towns along the route, but for multi-day trips, you'll need to plan for overnight stays and resupply in charming communities like Stockton or Lambertville. Be aware that some sections, especially towards New Brunswick, might have a rougher surface due to past flooding, so appropriate footwear is essential.

This trail is not just a recreational path; it's a significant piece of New Jersey's heritage, originally used by mules to pull barges between Philadelphia and New York City. It's recognized as the longest completed multi-use trail in New Jersey and forms part of the larger East Coast Greenway, connecting various historic towns. The D&R Canal State Park, encompassing the towpath, is a vital wildlife corridor, home to turtles, beavers, and over 160 bird species, offering a rich natural experience alongside its historical charm.

The Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath offers a unique blend of history and nature, following the path where mules once pulled barges. This 71.5-mile (115.1 km) route, while rated difficult due to its sheer length and estimated 29 hours and 3 minutes duration, features a gentle 608 feet (185 metres) of elevation gain, making it physically accessible for long-distance walkers. You'll traverse varied surfaces from finely crushed stone to hard-packed dirt, with some paved sections, all while enjoying the tranquil canal, lush forests, and glimpses of the Delaware River. Keep an eye out for historical structures like bridge-tender houses and locks that dot the path, offering a tangible connection to the past. This is a journey that rewards those who appreciate a long, immersive experience rather than a steep, technical climb.

Accessing the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath is convenient, with numerous parking areas and trailheads available along its extensive length. While it's a fantastic option for hiking, the trail is also popular for cycling, with hybrid or mountain bikes recommended to handle the varied surfaces. The trail connects to other networks like the D&L trail and is part of the larger East Coast Greenway, offering even more exploration opportunities. There are no specific permits or fees required, making it an easy choice for a day trip or a multi-day adventure.

Beyond its recreational appeal, the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath is a living museum, preserving the route of a vital 19th-century transportation corridor between Philadelphia and New York. As you walk, you'll encounter remnants of this industrial past, including cobblestone spillways and hand-built stone-arch culverts. The park also serves as an important wildlife corridor, home to over 160 bird species, beavers, and deer, adding a rich ecological dimension to your journey. It's a testament to New Jersey's natural and historical heritage, offering a peaceful escape into a landscape shaped by both human ingenuity and the flow of nature.