Float from Lackawaxen to Highland

Keep an eye out for Cedar rapids on your way from Lackawaxen to Highland.

NPS

Float this short stretch of river from Lackawaxen River Access to Highland River Access. This stretch is approximately 3 river miles and takes on average 1.5 hours to float. 

Immediately after leaving the Lackawaxen River Access you will pass over the remains of the old spillwater dam and underneath Roebling’s Delaware Aqueduct, the oldest wire cable suspension bridge in North America. It is recommended you pass under the bridge in the center of the river, but after you clear the bridge, look to your left to see the D&H Towpath Trail which follows along remains of the historic Delaware & Hudson Canal, just on the other side of the path. This stretch of river has one set of rapids, Cedar Rapids, before reaching Highland. These rapids are Class I rapids.

River Safety 

• Wearing a life jacket is the #1 thing you can do to stay safe on the river. Make sure your life jacket fits snugly and is the correct size for you. Familiarize yourself with the life jacket rules of the river. 

• During all seasons, there is always a risk of hypothermia. Even during summer, water temperatures can remain cold. Always come prepared, check the weather forecast, wear appropriate clothing, and bring an extra set of dry clothes. 

• River conditions can change very quickly. Stay informed by calling the river hotline line at 845-252-7100 for daily information about river height, condition, and temperatures. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from April 1st to October 31st. 

• Glass is prohibited on the river. Closed toed shoes are recommended to protect your feet. 

• The river is surrounded by private property. Please respect landowners and do not stop or get off on private property.

Driving and Parking 

There are no public shuttles, public transit, or ride-sharing services along the Upper Delaware River, as well as limited cell service. Unless you are renting equipment from a livery which offers shuttling services, make a plan on how you will get back to your vehicle after your trip. Parking lots are available at both the Lackawaxen and Highland River Accesses. Most visitors will leave one car at their starting point and another at their ending point.

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

Floating times can vary greatly depending on river height and conditions, wind, weather and the type of vessel being used. At an average river height of 2.5 - 4 feet, an average floating speed is 2 miles per hour.

Activity

River Tubing

Life jackets are required to be within reach for everyone when on a boat, tube, or any other vessel or watercraft. One life jacket is required per person. 

Life jackets are required to be worn for children 12 years old and younger at all times and for everyone when the river height is 6 feet or above, as measured at the Callicoon and Barryville gauges. 

We strongly recommend keeping your life jacket on if you decide to swim in the water. The current is often stronger than it appears when you are boating or tubing.

Pets Allowed

Yes

You are welcome to enjoy the river with your pet. Dogs make great boat buddies, but there are some things to take into consideration before you get on the water. 

• Know your dog and their abilities, temperament, and stamina. A hot summer day on the river can be draining on people and pets. Know your limits. 

• A life jacket can save your pet if you capsize. Even though dogs can swim, river currents can be very swift and a life jacket will ensure peace of mind that your pet makes it back to shore. Do not tie your pet to your boat. 

• Respect wildlife and other visitors. Remember that when you get out onto a river access, your dog needs to be leashed in order to protect your pet, other visitors, and wildlife. 

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: There are no trash receptacles at river accesses. Help keep the park clean by picking up after your pooch and taking back with you any pet waste. 

• Ticks and snakes are both present in the park. Reduce the risk to your pet by keeping them out of tall grass and vegetation. 

Please note due to the stability and size of the vessel, boats such as rafts or canoes may be safer and easier to take on a river trip with your pet in comparison to inner tubes. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Lackawaxen River Access

The Lackawaxen River Access is located at 130 Scenic Drive, Lackawaxen, PA 18435. 

From NY 97: Driving on NY 97, cross Roebling’s Delaware Aqueduct near Minisink Ford, a few miles north of Barryville, NY. After crossing the aqueduct, turn right onto Scenic Drive and follow the road to the access. The Lackawaxen River Access will be located on the right, across the street from the Zane Grey Museum. 

From US Highway 6/PA 590: From US Highway 6 turn onto PA 434. Drive approximately 1.5 miles and at a fork in the road, keep left onto PA 590 into Greeley. Follow PA 590 approximately 4.5 miles into Lackawaxen. In Lackawaxen, turn onto Scenic Drive. The Lackawaxen River Access will be located across the street from the Zane Grey Museum. 

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Although the Upper Delaware River is open year-round to recreate, summer is generally the best time of year to float due to warmer air and water temperatures. 

At water temperatures of 70°F and below, there is an increased risk of cold water shock, which affects one’s ability to respond and recover after capsizing or falling into the water. Inner tube users are also more likely to get wet compared to boaters. 

The ideal water temperature for water activities is between 70°F - 80°F. Summer water temperatures range from 50°F - 90s (°F), with spring and fall being cooler. Winter water temperatures can fall below freezing by December. Please check the river temperatures before setting off on your trip and ensure you have the appropriate equipment to have a safe trip.

Time of Day

Day

Floating and tubing in daylight is recommended in order to avoid any river hazards. 

Accessibility Information

The Lackawaxen River Access has a gravel ramp and designated accessible parking spots. An ADA accessible seasonal portable restroom is available behind the Zane Grey Museum, across the road from the access. The river access at Highland has a paved ramp and designated accessible parking spots. It has an ADA accessible seasonal portable restroom. The pathway from the parking lot to the access ramp is at a long, paved incline. There are no ADA accessible ramps at either access.