On the banks of the Delaware River, between the Pennsylvania and New Jersey border, lies an underrated mountain town brimming with picturesque surroundings. Aside from its captivating beauty, comprising mountain backdrops and majestic waterfalls, Dingmans Ferry is the epitome of a hiker’s paradise. Given that this quaint town is an integral part of the Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area, visitors won’t have to venture far to experience sensational nature trails. Interestingly, Dingmans Ferry was named after Dutchman Andrew Dingman, who came up with the idea to establish a ferry along the Delaware River to bring economic growth to the area.
Pennsylvania is well known for its jaw-dropping natural attractions, which include the state’s tallest waterfall, nestled in the Pocono Mountains just 6 miles from Dingmans Ferry. While you never have to journey too far to find places to connect with nature in Pennsylvania, the underrated town of Dingmans Ferry proves to be a great starting point for exploring some marvelous local gems.
This picturesque mountain town is the perfect destination for nature lovers, yet it is conveniently located just 68 miles from vibrant New York City and just 65 miles from Newark International Airport (EWR). Considering the variety of hiking opportunities in the area, it is a good idea to rent a car and take advantage of the freedom to seek out the region’s best-kept secrets and stunning nearby mountain towns.
Pack your hiking shoes when visiting beautiful Dingmans Ferry
Hiking is one of the major reasons that visitors are drawn to Dingmans Ferry. To experience fewer crowds and more tranquility, park rangers for Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area suggest that Tuesday through Thursday are ideal times to visit, and the earlier the better. Dingmans Ferry is the gateway to the majestic Poconos, and fall is one of the best times to visit this Pennsylvania mountain range, as well as the captivating natural attractions on this quaint town’s doorstep.
Dingmans Ferry and the Pocono Mountains region, in general, are certainly not places to forget your trail shoes, especially given the number of incredible nature trails in the area. One of the most popular is Dingmans Falls, which is regarded as the ideal place to begin your Northeastern Pennsylvania waterfall adventures. Tripadvisor reviewers have highly praised this stunning hike for its accessibility and “fairy-like atmosphere.” This short and easy hike features an informative visitors center, ample parking, and access to two falls: Silver Thread Falls and Dingmans Falls, both of which are incredibly beautiful to witness. Sadly, access to Dingmans Falls is closed during the summer of 2025 for bridge repairs.
Other notable waterfall hikes near Dingmans Ferry include Hornbecks Creek, which is a moderately challenging trail featuring scenic bridges, forests, and a “ladder” of waterfalls, as well as the more challenging Mount Tammany Loop Trail. Additionally, the moderately difficult Tumbling Waters Trail and the easier George W. Childs Recreational Site Trail are well worth discovering if time allows.
How to make the most of your trip to Dingmans Ferry
