Pocono Living Magazine and Pocono Family Magazine, two regional publications filled with articles, features and photography exploring and capturing the real Pocono Mountains living experience.
Our publications can be found at many locations throughout the Pocono Mountains region, and are available by subscription.
PUBLISHING
Pocono Living Magazine© & Pocono Family Magazine©
1929 North 5th Street
Stroudsburg, PA 18360
570-424-1000 pmags@ptd.net www.poconomagazines.com
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
Larry R. Sebring
larry@poconomagazines.com
ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES
larry@poconomagazines.com
MAGAZINE & WEB DESIGN
Smart Blonde Creative
Food & Wine Editor
Jamie Marra
PHOTOGRAPHY & ART
John Anzivino
Gayle C. Brooke
Ray Caswell
Pat Coyle
Randall FitzGerald
Ashley Hall
Maurice Harmon
Susan Hartman
Marlana Holsten
Ann H. LeFevre
Barbara Lewis
Marie Liu
Harry Loud
Regina Matarazzo
Janet Mishkin
John L. Moore
Michael Murphy
Justine Nearhood
Roseanna Santaniello
Tom Stone
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kimberly Blaker
Roseanne Bottone
Kathy Dubin-Uhler
Sandra Gordon Tanni Haas
Rebecca Hasting
Amanda Kuhn
Amy Leiser
Marie Liu
Sara Lyons
Jamie Marra
Suzanne McCool
Janet Mishkin
John L. Moore
Allison Mowatt
Jim Werkheiser
Kim Williams
Marty Wilson
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS
Kristen Sebring
Linda Spalluto
PROUD MEMBERS OF
“Peace is not something you wish for. It is something you make, something you are, something you do, and something you give away.”
― Robert Fulghum
Patricia Santoro
> A historical marker along Route 209 stands near the site of Fort Hyndshaw, a French and Indian War fort built in 1756 to protect settlers against Indian war parties. A short distance south of presentday Bushkill, the fort stood along an old Indian trail that followed the Delaware River north into New York State.
By John L. Moore
Not only did soldiers stationed at Hyndshaw’s Fort along the Delaware River provide their own flintlock muskets during the French and Indian War, but some also brought their dogs.
At night, soldiers and dogs stayed inside the fort, which consisted of a log stockade erected around the house of a settler, James Hyndshaw. Located in Upper Smithfield Township and built in January 1756, Hyndshaw’s stood a short distance south of present-day Bushkill, near where Bushkill Creek empties into the Delaware River.
On May 5, 1757, the fort’s commander, Captain John Van Etten of the Pennsylvania Regiment, sent several soldiers to guard farmers working in a field near the fort. One man returned to the fort and reported that he “saw three Indians coming down a mountain near said field,” Van Etten wrote in his journal.
The captain and three soldiers went out to investigate, but didn’t encounter any Indians. “I stood on guard with two men, while one went to alarm the guard that was in the field,” Van Etten said.
That night, all was quiet at Fort Hyndshaw when the garrison turned in. But after a while, the dogs started to bark. “The dogs kept an unusual barking and running to a particular place” inside the stockade, Van Etten wrote.
When morning came, the soldiers “found that an Indian had stood behind a tree about 25 yards from the fort. Being told, I went to see and found it true, his tracks being visible enough to be seen,” the captain reported in his journal entry for May 6.
> Little Bushkill Creek, right, flows into Bushkill Creek a short distance north of the site of Fort Hyndshaw. The fisherman at right is Rielly Pape, 17. The fort stood between the Bushkill and the Delaware River.
> Swollen by heavy rains, Bushkill Creek flows toward the Route 209 bridge a short distance below the site of Fort Hyndshaw.
The war had started in western Pennsylvania in July 1755 when French soldiers and Indian warriors defeated a British army near present-day Pittsburgh. Pennsylvania was then one of England’s North American colonies. The fighting spread to the Poconos in late 1755 when pro-French Indians attacked white settlements along the upper Delaware River Valley. This was territory that Pennsylvania had forced the Minisink Indians to leave following the Walking Purchase of 1737. These raids had a devastating impact on the settlers, most of whom were farmers with little experience in fighting Indians.
“The whole country from the Minisinks quite to Easton is deserted by the inhabitants, and… the Indians are wasting and destroying all before them as fast as they can, running from plantation to plantation,” a colonial official named William Peters wrote to Governor Robert H. Morris on December 14. By mid-December 1755, the governor sent Benjamin Franklin and some other prominent political leaders to Easton to organize the defense of the border settlements.
In January 1756, Franklin led an expedition of colonial soldiers up the Lehigh River and built four log forts, including Fort Norris
near Gilbert and Fort Hamilton in Stroudsburg. Hyndshaw’s Fort was quickly incorporated into a chain of forts that the newly organized Pennsylvania Regiment erected across a nearly 190mile front, from the Delaware River to Chambersburg.
In January 1756, Franklin led an expedition of colonial soldiers up the Lehigh River and built four log forts, including Fort Norris near Gilbert and Fort Hamilton in Stroudsburg.
In early January, Benjamin Franklin authorized a small force based at Hyndshaw’s Fort. “I have… allowed 30 men to secure the Township of Upper Smithfield, and commissioned (John) Van Etten and (James) Hyndshaw as captain and lieutenant,” Franklin wrote on January 14, 1756.
Two days earlier, Franklin had directed Van Etten “to proceed immediately to raise a company of foot, consisting of 30 able men, including two sergeants, with which you are to protect the inhabitants of Upper Smithfield, assisting them while they thresh out and secure their corn, and scouting from time to time as you judge necessary.”
Among other things, the captain was required to keep a journal of his day-to-day transactions. Franklin also told him that his recruits were authorized to scalp any hostile Indians that they might kill. “Forty dollars will be allowed and paid by the government for each scalp of an Indian enemy so killed; the same being produced with proper attestations,” Franklin said. In other words, to collect the bounty, a soldier had to submit suitable documentation along with each scalp.
Van Etten’s company consisted a captain, lieutenant, two sergeants, and 28 privates, according to digital documents that are part of the Franklin archive at a website called Founders Online. These documents also provide details of the soldiers’ diet, drink and pay.
The captain was obligated to provide each man with a weekly ration that included: 10½ pounds of bread or meal, three pounds of pork, three pounds of beef and one pound of fish. “When fish is wanting, a pound of beef
As Benjamin Franklin required, Captain John Van Etten kept a journal of daily life at Hyndshaw’s Fort and recorded the experiences that his rangers had while on patrol. The entries span an eight-month period—from December 1, 1756, through July 22, 1757—and provide a comprehensive look at the activities, and sometimes forced inactivities, of Pennsylvania troops tasked with guarding the frontier against hostile Indians.
The captain often sent his men into the forest near the fort to gather firewood, which they used for both heating and cooking. Some soldiers stood guard while others cut and carried the fuel. At other times, he assigned them to sentry duty and occasionally accompanied them when he sent them out on patrol. Invariably, these were foot patrols.
Van Etten’s journal entries give a flavor of conditions in the Minisinks:
December 1: “I went on scout with the oldest sergeant to see if there were Indians …, but discovered none. We returned safe to the fort.”
December 7: “I went on scout with two men and made no discovery; returned safe to the fort at night and found all in good order.”
December 12. “Sunday and rainy, we all stayed at the garrison.”
On December 14 the captain sent two men to guard a farmer named Jacob Swortwood who had grain that needed threshing in storage at his homestead, which was about four miles away from the fort.
The next day, since the farmer hadn’t finished the threshing, Van Etten again sent the guards to the Swortwood farm. The captain himself went out on a scout with four other men. “At night, when I returned, (Swortwood) told me that before he and said guard came to the field, they saw a small stack of rye set out in a large shock of thirty sheaves on a side, and places left in the middle to shoot out (of), and a bee hive set on the top,” Van Etten said.
This structure was obviously a blind, and its presence raised suspicions that hostiles might use it to ambush unwary farm workers.
On December 16, the captain took “six men to the place, and ordered two men with the wagons to come sometime after when I had surrounded the field, then to come and take their loads which was done, but no discovery made of the enemy. I went then with two men through the woods, and the rest of the men guarded the wagon, and we all returned safe to the fort.”
December 17: “It snowed. I made a pair of moccasins for myself to scout in.”
Excerpted from Fort, Forests, and Flintlocks
> These re-enactors portray soldiers belonging to the Pennsylvania Regiment, which patrolled the frontier along the Blue Mountains during the French and Indian War. Photo courtesy of Busse’s Company, Weiser’s Battalion, Pennsylvania Regiment.
shall be allowed instead thereof; and if pork be wanting, four pounds of beef shall be allowed instead,” the documents stated.
All soldiers were also entitled to a daily ration of alcohol – “one gill of rum per day.” One gill equaled a quarter of a pint, or about four ounces.
As historian William A. Hunter reported in his 1972 book, Forts of the Pennsylvania Frontier, Franklin told Van Etten that “the men's pay is given as six dollars per month; the fish ration is specified as mackerel, and the rum was to be issued half to be given in the morning and half in the evening."
Franklin provided the new captain with a raft of other instructions. They included:
“For the better security of the inhabitants… you are to post your men as follows: eight at your own house, eight at Lieutenant Henshaw's (Hyndshaw’s), six with a sergeant at Tishhock, and six with another sergeant at or near Henry Cortracht's… You are
to settle signals, or means of suddenly alarming the inhabitants, and convening your whole strength with the militia of your district, on any necessary occasion.
“Every man is to be engaged for one month, and as the Province (of Pennsylvania) cannot at present furnish arms or blankets to your company, you are to allow every man enlisting and bringing his own arms and blanket, a dollar for the use thereof over and above his pay.”
With his military commission in hand, Van Etten lost little time in organizing a company of rangers. Less than two weeks after Franklin commissioned him, his men engaged in a firefight with enemy warriors. Quoting a letter written at Easton on January 30, the Pennsylvania Gazette reported:
“Last Friday a party of Captain John Van Etten’s men fell in with a party of Indians in Upper Smithfield, and killed and scalped two of them, and have good reason to believe they
wounded four or five more mortally. They got a booty of two guns, one of which a rifle, the other a smooth bored French gun; a fine pipe hatchet, and three match-coats. … None of our people received any hurt.”
An Indian raid that occurred around this time directly affected the captain. “Mr. Van Etten’s own barn, barracks, and all his wheat, are likewise burnt, and three of his best horses… carried off by the enemy,” the Pennsylvania Gazette reported.
Repeated sightings of Indians had frightened the residents who lived in the vicinity, and some decided to move into Hyndshaw’s Fort until the danger passed.
In June 1756 Commissary James Young, who was paymaster for the Pennsylvania Regiment, visited Fort Hyndshaw while touring many of the forts east of the Susquehanna River. He gave it a positive review: “This fort is a square about seventy feet each way, very slightly stockaded. I gave some directions to alter the bastions, which at present are of very little use. It is clear all round for three hundred yards, and stand(s) on the banks of a large creek, and about one-quarter mile from the River Delaware, and I think in a very important place for the defense of this frontier.”
Young also inspected the arms and ammunition available to the men stationed at Hyndshaw’s. The provincial stores had only 11 “good muskets” and 14 rounds of powder and lead for 30 men, four pounds of powder, and 30 blankets, he reported. “Finding here such a small quantity of powder and lead, and this fort (located on) the most distant frontier, I wrote a letter to Captain (Jacob) Orndt at Fort Norris, where there is a large quantity, desiring he would deliver to this fort 30 pounds (of) powder, and 90 pounds (of) lead,” Young said.
The commissary officer had taken a full five hours to travel the 14 miles from Fort Hamilton at present-day Stroudsburg to Hyndshaw’s Fort. Along the way, he made a brief stop at Samuel Dupui’s fortified house at present-day Shawnee on Delaware. “Round Dupui’s house is a large, but very slight, and ill-contrived stockade with a swivel gun mounted on each corner,” Young wrote.
As he traveled across the region, Young recorded details of a frontier devastated by hostile war parties. Hyndshaw’s Fort was about nine miles north of Dupui’s. “It is a good plain road from Dupui’s, many plantations this way, but all deserted, and the houses chiefly burnt,” Young wrote.
The road from Hyndshaw’s to Dupui’s remained a dangerous area, even for armed and experienced soldiers. On April 25, 1757 – long after Young’s inspection tour – Captain Van Etten sent a sergeant and two privates from Hyndshaw down to Dupui’s for provisions.
The three had traveled seven miles, apparently on horseback, and were only about two miles from their destination when a war party ambushed them, killing Sergeant Leonard Dean and wounding one of the horses.
The soldiers accompanying Dean escaped and hurried back to Hyndshaw’s Fort “whereupon an alarm was beat, and the neighbors all gathered to the fort,” Van Etten reported. “Myself with seven men went off immediately and found him (Dean) killed and scalped, and entirely stripped and shamefully cut, (so) that his bowels was spread on the ground.”
The captain sent three men to Dupui’s for a wagon, and “we carried him to … Dupui’s, where we kept guard that night,” the captain said. “Early in the morning we buried him in a Christian manner, and all returned to Fort Hyndshaw.”
On May 7, “I went with four men to a (black)smith’s shop where we made an instrument to take a bullet out of my horse, who was shot when Sergeant Dean was killed,” the captain said. “All returned safe to the fort.”
Repeated sightings of Indians had frightened the residents who lived in the vicinity, and some decided to move into Hyndshaw’s Fort until the danger passed. On May 8, Van Etten reported that he and his troops “assisted some of the neighbors with their goods and families to the fort.”
Although Pennsylvania troops left Fort Hyndshaw during the summer of 1757, the post “probably … , like some others, became a shelter for local residents,” Hunter wrote in Forts of the Pennsylvania Frontier.
John L. Moore continues to pursue his lifelong interests in Pennsylvania’s colonial history and archaeology. The Northumberland writer has published 11 non-fiction books about Pennsylvania’s 16th and 17th century. John’s latest book, 1780: Year of Revenge, is currently available in book stores or from the online bookstore Sunbury Press Inc. This book is the 3rd volume in his Revolutionary Pennsylvania Series and tells the story of Indian raids all across the Pennsylvania Frontier — including the Poconos and Minisinks — in the year following General Sullivan’s 1779 invasion of the Iroquios homeland.
Over the years John has participated in archaeological excavations of Native American sites along the Delaware and Susquehanna Rivers. A professional storyteller, he recently took part in the Heritage Festival at Frances Slocum State Park near Wilkes-Barre. He told the true story of Frances Slocum, a 5-year-old girl who lived as a Native American after being kidnapped by Indians during the American Revolution. The park was named for her.
By Amy Leiser
The area that would become the Borough of Delaware Water Gap was founded by Antoine Dutot, a French-born settler who emigrated from Santo Domingo in 1793. Dutot first arrived in Philadelphia where he was encouraged to settle northward along the Delaware River. It was here that he bought large tracts of land and named his settlement, Dutotsburg, after himself. Dutot died in 1841 and did not live to see Delaware Water Gap become the bustling city he had hoped.
Delaware Water Gap became a borough on May 31, 1889 when it broke off of Smithfield Township. John F. Barteau was chosen the Chief Burgess at a special election held at the Kittatinny House the following month on June 18. Interestingly, the borough’s first official name was “Borough of Water Gap;” as it was incorporated in 1889, the names left out the word
“Delaware.” The mistake was realized, and Barteau appeared before the courts on August 12, 1889 to rectify the error and amend the title to the “Borough of Delaware Water Gap.” In addition to Dutotsburg, Delaware Water Gap has also been known as “Monroe Square” and “Wolf Hollow.”
Because of the stunning landscape and majestic views, the area became an important destination for tourists starting in the 1800s. In fact, Delaware Water Gap was such a famous destination that it became the second largest inland resort in the United States (behind Saratoga Springs) and held the title of the most desirable vacation location in Pennsylvania.
The two most famous resorts were the Kittatinny Hotel and the Water Gap House. The Kittatinny Hotel was the earliest
hotel in the borough and was built in 1829 by Antoine Dutot. Originally a 25-room structure, the building expanded over the years into a 500-room hotel. The Water Gap House was built in 1872 by Luke W. Brodhead and could accommodate 275 guests. The Glenwood House was built by Rev. Heratio Howell and welcomed 200 guests, and the Riverview House was built by John Blair and was originally known as the Lenape House. The central House, today known as the Deerhead Inn, was built in 1885 by Samuel Overfield. In 1900, B.F. Skiurm built the Delaware House which featured a bowling alley and was located closest to the train station. Of course, there were many small boarding houses and cottages for rent.
Because of the stunning landscape and majestic views, the area became an important destination for tourists starting in the 1800s.
In 1903, the Delaware Water Gap train station was built and featured high ceilings, granite flooring, and chandeliers. This elegant structure welcomed thousands of tourists, and town and rail officials felt it was important to impress the clientele, especially since the Borough of Delaware Water Gap was the “Gateway to the Poconos.” The transportation industry goes hand-in-hand with the tourism industry.
The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain was dedicated in 1854, and the first minister was Horatio Howell. The first newspaper in Delaware Water Gap was known as the Mountain Echo, and it was first published in 1879. The first post office was opened in 1806 with Dutot serving as the first postmaster. There is only one cemetery located within the boundaries of Delaware Water Gap. The oldest headstone dates to 1840, and the cemetery is still in use today.
During the summer months, Delaware Water Gap’s population swelled with visitors. In the August 21, 1890 edition of the Stroudsburg Times, it was reported that 467 people permanently resided in the Borough. By 2010, that number increased to 746 individuals. Today, the Borough of Delaware Water Gap has the smallest population of residents of any municipality in Monroe County.
By Joan Casanova
Have you ever wondered what’s in your favorite packaged foods, grabbed a box from your pantry, read the ingredients and realized you still didn’t know what you’re eating? The ingredients in some processed foods can read like a chemist’s shopping list. Now imagine if backyard birds could read. What would they say about the ingredients in the food you feed them?
A growing number of Americans are choosing natural foods for their pets; nearly one-third say they prefer natural products, according to PetFoodIndustry.com. People who feed wild birds also want to know they’re feeding the most natural and nutritious options. It’s hard to be confident when reading the mystifying ingredient list on feed bags makes you feel like a bird brain.
With an abundance of options, ranging from commercial bird feeds to small-batch varieties, understanding the differences can help bird lovers make informed choices to meet wild birds’ nutritional needs while considering factors like sustainability and quality.
The wild bird experts at Cole’s Wild Bird Products, Co. offer these tips to ensure you’re feeding your feathered friends a healthy, natural diet.
While commercial bird feeds aim to provide basic nutrition for birds, the quality and nutritional content can vary. Some mixes contain a high proportion of less desirable seeds and fillers, offering limited nutritional value.
Small batch bird feeds prioritize nutritional content, using premium ingredients rich in essential nutrients, fats and proteins. This can provide birds with a more balanced diet, promoting overall health and vitality.
Avoid commercial bird feeds that are full of cheap fillers, such as red milo, millet, cracked corn, oats and wheat. Fillers lack nutritional value and birds will kick them right out of the feeder
Instead, select small batch, natural feed comprised of top-ofthe-crop seeds which contain no chemicals or mineral oil like Cole’s and bypass seed coated with them. Some commercial bird feeds are coated with mineral oil and mixed with crushed rock to add “vitamins.” Current regulations allow manufacturers to list nutritional components of mineral oil (iron, zinc) and crushed rock (vitamin A, calcium carbonate) separately, which can make the ingredients look more impressive. Mineral oil makes birdseed shiny and helps hide dirt and dust, and crushed rock adds weight to the product.
Celebrate the holidays surrounded by great company and even better cuisine in the Pocono Mountains. From romantic dinners by candlelight to farm-to-table experiences, our local chefs are serving up something for every palate. Visit PoconoMountains.com to see all of our mouth-watering dining options and make your reservation.
Take note of ingredients you can’t read; often it’s an indication the ingredient is synthetic or lab engineered. Ingredients like menadione sodium bisulfite complex and thiamine mononitrate aren’t found in natural foods; they’re man-made versions of vitamins. The rule of thumb for buying all-natural is “If you can't read it, don't feed it.”
Focus on serving feed with an ingredient list you can read and understand. For instance, Cole’s Sunflower Meats contains nothing but shelled sunflower seeds and White Millet contains 100% white millet. Super simple, right?
Commercial bird feeds aim to provide basic nutrition for birds, the quality and nutritional content can vary.
Study birds visiting your feeders and research feed they prefer or buy feed from a reputable company that’s done that work for you. For example, Cole’s offers select natural seed choices developed and based on research about what birds actually eat. Feed is specifically formulated to attract certain species of birds as well as the largest number of birds. No cheap filler seeds are used and seed is cleaned to ensure quality – no sticks and dirt. When you know and serve what backyard birds prefer, they’ll keep coming back for more.
Supplement seed with natural foods you have at home. For example, woodpeckers love raw peanuts, mockingbirds love fruit and chickadees savor suet. Soak raisins and currants in water overnight then serve or purchase blends with a dried fruit and nut mixture, like Nutberry suet. To attract orioles, skewer halved oranges on a spike near feeders.
Buy feed from companies specializing in wild bird food. Some offer bird feed as a side product of pet products or grass seed producers. Conversely, Cole’s exclusively produces and sells products for feeding backyard birds. Seeds are packaged like human food in “Harvest Fresh Lock” packaging so seeds don’t lose nutritional content or dry out and spoil.
To learn more about all-natural feed options with ingredients even birds could understand, visit coleswildbird.com.
Located between the Pocono Plateau and Kittatinny Ridge in close proximity to the most densely populated region of the nation, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River preserve the natural, cultural, and scenic resources and values of the Delaware River valley and provide opportunities for resource-based recreation, education, and enjoyment
• Launching, landing or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.
• Climbing, jumping, diving, and rappelling is prohibited at all waterfalls, waterfall pools, and bridge abutments.
• Swimming and wading is prohibited within 50 feet upstream of waterfalls.
• Entry into caves, mine shafts and unoccupied structures is prohibited.
• Privately-owned property and residences exist within park boundaries. Please respect the rights and privacy of private property owners and other residents.
• Collection of plants, animals, rocks, mineral, and cultural objects is prohibited.
• Certain types of activities require a special use permit. Some common activities that require a permit include commercial photography, weddings, baptisms, first amendment activities, and competitive events.
• A permit is required for any road-based tour operating within the park. Road-based commercial tours are considered as one or more persons traveling on an improved roadway on an itinerary that a company or individual has packaged, priced, or sold for leisure/recreational purposes.
• Camp fires are only allowed at designated camp sites within metal fire grates. Personally owned grills, stoves, or lanterns are permitted at designated picnic sites (excluding Kittatinny Point and Childs Park), campground or river campsite. Fires are prohibited in all other areas.
• Do not feed or approach wildlife. Always maintain a distance of at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other wildlife.
For a complete list of park specific closures, permit requirements and other restrictions, contact park headquarters at 570 426-2452.
Main Address
Park Headquarters
1978 River Road, Bushkill, Pennsylvania 18324
Email: DEWA_Interpretation@nps.gov
Park Headquarters Emergency 570-426-2452 800-543-4295
Website and Social Media
www.nps.gov/dewa www.facebook.com/DelWaterGapNPS www.twitter.com/DelWaterGapNPS www.instagram.com/DelWaterGapNPS
The National Park Service cares for the special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.
Pets must be restrained on a leash (6 feet or less). Pets may not be tied to an object and left unattended or left in a vehicle. Summer heat poses a threat to pets left in vehicles. Report lost pets to the park communication center at 570- 426-2457.
Please follow the rules of BARK! when visiting the park with your pet.
Bag your pet’s waste
Always wear a leash
Respect wildlife
Know where you can go
Pets are permitted in most areas of the park, including campgrounds, picnic areas, and on paved or dirt roads.
Pets are NOT permitted at the following sites (excludes working service animals):
In Pennsylvania: Raymondskill Falls and Raymondskill Creek Trail Dingmans Falls and Dingmans Creek Trail Valley View Group Campsites Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day: Smithfield Beach, Milford Beach, and Hialeah Picnic Area (except when accessing the McDade Trailhead)
In New Jersey: Turtle Beach Rivers Bend Group Campsites Watergate Recreation Site
THE RIVER, THE VALLEY & YOU
» page 4
SUGGESTED TRIP
» page 6
A DAY ON THE DELAWARE
» page 8
SWIMMING & FISHING
» page 10
CAMPING
» page 12
PICNICKING & RIDING
» page 13
BIKING
» page 13
HIKING
» page 14
RIVER RUNNER SHUTTLE
» page 18
TOURING OLD MINE ROAD
» page 20
OVERLOOKS IN THE GAP
» page 22
WATERFALLS
» page 23
PEOPLE OF THE DELAWARE
» page 26
COVER by William McKee
Paddlers slip down the river between low, forested mountains; anglers wade the cool streams; and hikers explore secluded places. This valley has attracted people for 13,000 years.
Abundant plant and wildlife sustained American Indians; floodplains nourished early farmer’s crops; waterfalls drew Victorian vacationers. Today, a 70,000-acre park welcomes you to the enticing Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River.
Millions of years of uplift, erosion, and glacial activity gave us the water gap, ridges, and streams that flow through hemlockand rhododendron-laced ravines and over waterfalls that pour off the Pocono Plateau.
Steeped in rich history, the trails, roads, sites, and traces reveal reminders of times gone. The Minsi Path and Minisink Trail converged on a Delaware River island that was once the center of a large American Indian settlement. Agricultural fields still in cultivation help preserve the rural landscape predominate in the 18th century. In the 1800s resorts flourished throughout the region where city dwellers arrived by carriage or rail, often spending the entire summer away from the urban heat. The water gap became a scenic wonder for fashionable travelers.
Today the natural and cultural wonders provide abundant recreational opportunities. This rural vacationland is yours to explore.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area includes nearly forty miles of the free-flowing Middle Delaware Scenic and Recreational River.
River-related activities, like swimming and paddling, are some of the popular pastimes on warm summer days.
From ridgetop to riverside, vistas to ravines, and from easy to extreme, more than 100 miles of trail offer something for everyone.
Choose a trail for hiking, biking, or boating to enjoy the natural beauty and the historic landscape of the river valley.
Although the park is close to major cities, tranquil drives invite exploration. More than 100 miles of road lead to wonderful places.
Explore the varied landscapes in the valley: forests and fields, ridges and ravines, historic houses and hamlets
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. The following are a few suggested itineraries to consider depending on your time and interests.
• Stop by a park visitor center, where park rangers and volunteers can help you plan your adventure. Visitor center parking lots fill quickly on summer weekends. To avoid the crowds, visit the area before 10:00 am or after 4:00 pm on weekends or visit on a weekday.
• Walk a section of the McDade Recreational Trail, which extends most the length of the park in Pennsylvania and presents some of the best views of the Delaware River, as well as passes by charming streams, open farm fields, forests, and historic landscapes. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays between Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend, use the River Runner Shuttle for your return trip along the trail.
• View Raymondskill Falls by hiking a short, but steep, trail. To avoid the crowds, visit the area before 10:00 am or after 4:00 pm on weekends or visit on a weekday.
• Wander the quiet streets of Millbrook Village and explore life in the 1800s. This area is generally a good place to avoid crowds on summer weekends. Select buildings are open on summer Saturdays.
• Tour the Nelden-Roberts Stonehouse and the Foster-Armstrong House in Montague, NJ, on a summer Sunday afternoon. This area is generally a good place to avoid crowds on summer weekends.
• Tour the Rosencrans House and the Van Campen Inn in Walpack Center, NJ, on a summer Sunday afternoon. This area is generally a good place to avoid crowds on summer weekends.
• Stop at the three overlooks along PA 611 for stunning views of the Delaware Water Gap.
• Take a bike ride along the McDade Recreational Trail. Bring your own or rent a bike from a local outfitter. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays between Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend, use the River Runner Shuttle to transport you and your bike, then ride back to your vehicle.
• Savor a picnic lunch at Hidden Lake and then take a stroll around the lake. This area is generally a good place to avoid crowds on summer weekends.
• Stroll around the Slateford Loop Trail to enjoy the quiet valley below the Kittatinny Ridge.
• Take a scenic drive along US 209.
• Choose a trail and venture on a hike.
Consider signing up for a workshop offered by one of our partners located within the park.
• Peters Valley School of Craft offers 2-day to 5-day fine craft workshops. For more information, visit petersvalley.org.
• Appalachian Mountain Club’s Mohican Outdoor Center offers weekend getaways focusing on various outdoor activities. For more information, visit outdoors.org/lodging-camping/Lodges/Mohican.
• Pocono Environmental Education Center offers weekend getaways and workshops for youth, families and adults. For more information, visit peec.org.
The Delaware River is the longest undammed United States river east of the Mississippi, extending 330 miles from Hancock, New York to the Atlantic Ocean. The Delaware River Water Trail extends nearly 200 miles from Hancock to Trenton, New Jersey. Like a conventional trail, a water trail is a recreational corridor, but instead of hiking, it is traveled by boat, such as canoe, kayak or small-motorized watercraft.
The river boasts outstanding natural, cultural, recreational and scenic resources. In recognition of these qualities, the portion of the Delaware River traveling through Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area was officially designated as the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River in 1978. Within the park, the river is a series of shallow riffles and deep pools, making this section particularly good for canoeing. Access points every eight to ten miles allow for easy day trips, and numerous primitive campsites allow for longer journeys.
Bringing your own kayak or canoe? Take the chore out of relaying vehicles between your put-in and take-out on summer weekends. Use the River Runner Shuttle to transport you, your kayak and canoe, and your gear on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. The service is free.
A day on the Delaware River allows you an opportunity to immerse yourself in an environment of tranquil natural landscapes, striking river valley scenery, and a substantially undeveloped river corridor that is unmatched among large rivers in the most densely populated region of the United States. While the Delaware River is easy for boaters, do not be misled by its calm appearance. Always follow proper water safety precautions to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Pack a swimsuit and a picnic and head to the beach - the river beach, that is. Unlike the sandy beaches along the ocean, the beaches here have soft grass on which to stretch out and enjoy the day.
Milford, Smithfield, and Turtle beaches are designated swim areas. Lifeguards monitor the beaches on weekends mid-June through Labor Day. Swimming in other areas of the river is not recommended. Picnic and restroom facilities are also available at the beaches. Grills are not provided, but personal grills are permitted. Alcohol and pets are not permitted.
Parking at swim beaches generally reaches capacity by 10:00 am on summer weekends. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the summer, consider parking at the Delaware Water Gap park-and-ride lot and riding the free River Runner Shuttle to Smithfield beach.
Pack a swimsuit and a picnic and head to the beach - the river beach, that is. Unlike the sandy beaches along the ocean, the beaches here have soft grass on which to stretch out and enjoy the day.
Milford, Smithfield, and Turtle beaches are designated swim areas. Lifeguards monitor the beaches on weekends mid-June through Labor Day. Swimming in other areas of the river is not recommended. Picnic and restroom facilities are also available at the beaches. Grills are not provided, but personal grills are permitted. Alcohol and pets are not permitted.
Parking at swim beaches generally reaches capacity by 10:00 am on summer weekends. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the summer, consider parking at the Delaware Water Gap park-and-ride lot and riding the free River Runner Shuttle to Smithfield beach.
• A state fishing license is required for those 16 and older; regulations are enforced.
• Holders of either a New Jersey or Pennsylvania license may fish on the Delaware River and from either of its banks. This does not apply to the river’s tributaries.
• Special fishing regulations apply within the park. Refer to the appropriate state regulations for waters within the park.
Fishing is not permitted at:
• Dingmans Creek within George W. Childs Park area, including foot bridges and observation platforms. (Site closed in 2019)
• Dingmans Creek from the top of the Dingmans Falls to the east end of the Dingmans Falls Visitor Center parking lot from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.
• Silverthread Falls in the pool at the base of the falls.
Planning a safe day at the river begins well before you get near the water and does not end until you return home. Even though the Delaware River appears calm in some areas, DO NOT be misled! Moving water must be respected. The information below will help you better understand how to safely and comfortably enjoy the river.
In General:
• Always wear your life jacket.
• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited at Milford Beach, Smithfield Beach, Kittatinny Point, and Hialeah Picnic Area in Pennsylvania, and Turtle Beach, Caddoo Worthington State Forest, and Tocks and Labar Islands in New Jersey. Alcoholic beverages are also prohibited between Depew Island on the north and Depue Island on the south.
• Do not drink during river activities.
• Wear shoes to protect your feet from sharp stones, glass, and other objects.
• Protect yourself from the sun; wear sunscreen, a hat, light clothing, and sunglasses.
• Stay hydrated. Bring and drink plenty of water. Do not drink river water unless it is boiled at least 10 minutes.
• Plan to be off the river before dark.
When Swimming:
• Wear your life jacket even when swimming; don’t overestimate your swimming ability.
• Do not attempt to swim or wade across the river. The Delaware River has strong currents and steep drop-offs. Swimming becomes more difficult with increased current and water depth. Even the strongest of swimmers should be extremely cautious.
• Swim at designated beaches. Lifeguards are on duty on weekends at Milford, Smithfield and Turtle beaches mid-June through Labor Day.
• Do not jump or dive from cliffs, rocks, or bridges into the river; the water may be shallow and objects can be submerged. Rivers are constantly changing, especially with high water. Rocks can show up in places they never were before.
• Do not swim alone - always stay with your group.
• Always wear your life jacket.
• Children 12 years of age and younger MUST WEAR a life jacket on board a vessel.
• Life jackets must be worn in vessels less than 16 feet between November 1 and April 30.
• Never stand in a canoe. For better balance, kneel in a canoe when going through rapids.
• If you capsize, don’t panic. Stay with your boat; even an overturned boat can support you. Keep upstream of your boat to avoid being pinned against a rock or obstacle. Float on your back with your feet pointed downstream. Use your paddle to push away from rocks and other obstacles. Retrieve boats and equipment only if it can be done safely.
• Be ready for changing weather and cold water. Bring rain gear. To protect against hypothermia, bring clothing made of wool, polypropylene, high-performance eece, or a wetsuit.
• Never try to stand in rapids. Your foot could become trapped between submerged rocks. With a foot trapped, the current can be strong enough to push you over and hold you under, even if you are wearing a life jacket.
• Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Arrange drop off and pick up points before you leave. Leave emergency phone numbers, vehicle description, and tag numbers with someone who can report that you are overdue.
• Bring a spare paddle, a throw line, whistle, and a first aid kit.
What better way to immerse yourself in an environment of solitude, tranquil natural landscapes, striking river valley scenery, and a substantially undeveloped river corridor than to go camping! Whether you enjoy the services available at a campground or prefer hiking or paddling to pitch a tent away from people, the park offers a campsite for you. The place you park your RV or set up your tent becomes your home away from home – make it a safe one.
In general:
• Make sure there are no dead limbs or trees in the vicinity of your campsite that might come down during a strong wind.
• Avoid drinking untreated water. Even clear, spring water can contain harmful bacteria.
• If in a campground, lock food in your vehicle. Bears and other wildlife have a great sense of smell.
• Keep your pet on a leash and never leave a pet unattended.
• Ground fires are prohibited, except in a provided fire grate.
• Do not bring wood from outside the park; firewood is available for purchase at Dingmans Campground.
• Collecting wood in the park for fires is prohibited, except downed wood within designated campsites.
Located near Dingmans Ferry, PA
• Sites for tent and RV (some with hook-ups)
• Individual and group campsites
• Camp store
• Weekly activities
• River Runner Shuttle flag stop
• More information: dingmanscampground.com
Located along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail near Blairstown, NJ
• Individual and group tent sites
• Self-service, bunk-style cabins
• Water available
• Camp store & food service
• More information: outdoors.org/lodging/lodges/mohican
Valley View Located near Bushkill, PA
Rivers Bend Located near Millbrook Village, NJ
• Reservations required
• Available for groups of 20-40
• Primitive tent sites along the river
• Water available at Rivers Bend only
• River access for canoes and kayaks
• Valley View Campground is a River Runner Shuttle flag stop (1/3-mile walk)
• More information: nps.gov/dewa
For extended boat trips (14 miles or more), free primitive campsites along the river are available first-come, firstserve. Additionally, six sites at the Alosa Campsite are available by reservation only. For Alosa Campsite reservations visit recreation.gov and search for Alosa. Service charges will apply when making reservations either by phone or at recreation.gov.
River camping is limited to boaters on trips of at least 14 miles total for one night, 26 miles total for two nights and 34 miles total for three nights.
• Camping along the river is permitted in designated sites only; sites are identified by signs and the presence of a steel fire grate.
• Camping is limited to one night at each location. Campsites are limited to five tents per campsite.
• Tents must be erected within 50 feet of the campsite fire grate.
• Fires permitted in existing fire grates only. Self-contained stoves are permitted.
• Collecting wood in the park for fires is prohibited, except downed wood within the designated campsite. Do not bring wood from outside the park; firewood is available for purchase at Dingmans Campground.
• Pack out what you pack in, including food scraps.
• Use soaps sparingly; even biodegradable soap is a pollutant.
• Do not urinate or defecate within 100 feet of any river or stream. Bury fecal material, including pet waste, at least six inches deep and at least 100 feet away from water.
• Leave what you find; digging, collecting, or removing objects is prohibited.
Numerous idyllic spots in the park await you and a red-checkered blanket. Grills are not provided anywhere in the park, but you are welcome to bring your own, except to Kittatinny Point. Ground fires are prohibited throughout the park. Do not bring wood from outside the park for any purpose; it may contain invasive insects and other organisms that threaten the survival of local plant and animal life. Collecting wood in the park for fires is also expressly prohibited, since even the smallest twig may serve as a critical habitat or food source for protected plant and animal life.
Normally, horse riding is permitted on the Conashaugh View Trail in Pennsylvania and the Upper Ridge Trail in New Jersey for those who have their own horses. However, the Conashaugh View Trail sustained significant damage during a March 2018 winter storm and is closed to all recreational use until trail repairs are complete. Contact park headquarters at 570.426.2452 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/dewa for the current status.
The Upper Ridge Trail near Layton, New Jersey, winds approximately five miles (in and back) through quiet woods, open fields and past isolated ponds. This trail is not heavily used and can become overgrown in the summer. Parking for trailers is along Jager Road. The trail is also open to hiking. Hikers should be alert to riders and must yield to horses by stepping off the trail and standing quietly until they pass. Please protect the environment by riding only on the marked trails, and crossing streams only on bridges. There are no horse rental liveries in the park.
Cycling is a popular form of recreation in the park. The McDade Recreational Trail, a packed gravel path, parallels the Delaware River on the Pennsylvania side of the park for 32 miles and is perfect for mountain and hybrid bikes. This is the only trail where biking is permitted. A section between White Pines and Pittman Orchard trailheads is closed to biking. Motorized vehicles are not permitted on the McDade Recreational Trail.
Old Mine Road parallels the Delaware River on the New Jersey side for 34 miles in the park and passes through historic landscapes.
Road biking on US 209 in Pennsylvania is not recommended due to heavy traffic. Road biking on River Road in Pennsylvania is strongly discouraged due to sharp, steep turns, blind curves, and the lack of shoulders.
» Subject to change, please visit the park website or contact the park for updated information before visiting.
More than 100 miles of trails meander through the park, including nearly 27 miles of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Hikers can enjoy the trails year-round, with each season offering its own special reward. During winter, the absence of deciduous leaves opens new vistas along trails and reveals stone walls, foundations, and other reminders of past residents. Spring provides a weekly parade of wild flowers and flowering trees. In summer, hikers can seek out cool retreats among the hemlock forests, and follow burbling streams to powerful falls and cascades. In autumn, hikers have crisp air to sharpen their senses and a wondrous palette of fall colors to enjoy.
Choosing a trail can be a daunting task. What to see? Waterfalls? Historic landscapes? Inspiring views? The following pages offer a simple guide to the many routes available.
• Cell phone service is limited within the park.
• Carry (and drink) plenty of water; a leading cause of injuries on the trail is dehydration.
• Protect yourself from the sun; wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Wear sturdy shoes.
• Protect yourself from ticks and insects; use insect repellent, check and remove ticks when you return, and wear light-colored clothing to spot ticks more easily.
• Stay alert for snakes; do not put your hands and feet into places you cannot see.
• Be bear-aware; do not run if a bear approaches; make noise, wave your arms, and look large.
• Be able to recognize poison ivy and avoid contact with the plant.
• Trails are not regularly maintained or patrolled; travel carefully and at your own risk.
• Wear bright orange (shirt, vest, or hat) during hunting season.
• Stay on trails; taking shortcuts causes trail erosion, damages native plants, and can be dangerous.
• Do not feed or approach wildlife.
• Be Bear Aware; stay at least 100 yard from bears, hike in groups of three or more, make noise, and properly store trash and any products with an odor.
• Pets must be leashed at all time
• Pack out what you pack in; do not leave trash behind.
The parking lots at Kittatinny Point and Dunnfield are generally full by 10 am on summer weekends. Monroe County Transit Authority offers a hiker shuttle between the Delaware Water Gap Park and Ride, Lake Lenape Trailhead, and the Kittatinny Point and Dunnfield parking lots. Service is offered every half hour between 10 am and 5:30 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
The National Park Service has partnered with Monroe County Transit Authority (MCTA) to provide free public bus service along the Pennsylvania side of the river. MTCA provides the River Runner Shuttle service on Saturdays and Sundays between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends between Stroudsburg, PA and Milford Beach, PA. Additionally, bus service is provided on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
The River Runner Shuttle is a free service and is ADA accessible. Pick your boarding location and destination using the schedule below. Be at the stop five minutes prior to the scheduled arrival with your gear ready to load. In addition to passengers, MCTA can also transport bicycles, canoes, kayaks, and leashed dogs. Passengers are required to load and secure their own belongings and MCTA operators will check the equipment to ensure it is properly stowed.
Loading and securing equipment takes some time, so please be aw are that there may be times when the bus is late. For groups of ten or more people, please contact MCTA in advance to ensure they are properly prepared for your large group.
The system is designed to enable riders to board the bus just a bout anywhere along the route where it is safe for the driver
stop. Simply wave to the shuttle driver from a safe and observa ble location. Remember to be at the stop five minutes before the scheduled time. Programs like the River Runner Shuttle are just one way the par k is working to lessen the footprint we all leave on the planet. For more information about the shuttle visit MCTA’s website at gomcta.com/trip or call 570
For Boaters:
• Northbound shuttle service can be crowded with boaters, particularly in the morning. Consider riding your bike north on the McDade Recreational Trail and using the southbound shuttle to return to your vehicle.
• Riders are strongly encouraged to park at the Park-and-Ride in Delaware Water Gap for river trips that end at Kittatinny Point due to traffic congestion on summer weekends.
For Hikers:
• Hike a longer one-way trip on the McDade Recreational Trail by using the shuttle.
• Northbound shuttle service can be crowded with boaters, particularly in the morning. Consider hiking north on the McDade Recreational Trail and using the southbound shuttle to return to your vehicle.
• Peak demand for canoe and kayak shuttle is northbound in the morning before 10 am. Consider using the northbound shuttle to transport to your starting location later in the day, or use the northbound shuttle to transport back to your parked vehicle at the end of your trip.
• Have your gear at the shuttle stop and ready to load at least ten minutes before departure to ensure on-time service.
For Swimmers:
• When spending the day at Smithfield Beach, use the shuttle to go to the McDade Trailhead at Hialeah for a 1.9-mile walk back to Smithfield Beach.
• When spending the day at Milford Beach, use the shuttle to go to the McDade Trailhead at Pittman Orchard for a 2.2-mile walk back to Milford Beach.
• River Runner shuttle service is not available at Kittatinny Point after 8:50 am.
• The last northbound shuttle leaves Smithfield Beach at 3:20 pm. The last southbound shuttle leaves Milford Beach at 4:50 pm
For Bikers:
• Bike a longer one-way trip on the McDade Recreational Trail by using the shuttle.
» Subject to change, please visit the park website or contact the park for updated information before visiting.
Constructed in the mid-1600s, Old Mine Road connected the Hudson River and Philadelphia to the Pahaquarry Mines and provided an important conduit for New Jersey farmers taking crops to area markets, making it one of the oldest commercial roads in the country. Today, Old Mine Road stitches together sections of several roads into the park’s main passage in New Jersey and still retains much of the flavor of 100 years ago, making it a popular driving and biking route.
The National Grange, founded in 1867, is an organization that advocates for rural America and agriculture. The local Montague Grange was founded in 1904 and this hall was built in 1906. The local group remains active and continues to use the building for meetings and community activities.
Owners of this home operated a ferry, sawmill, and gristmill. The house was used as a tavern and inn for river travelers and reflects the standard of living of a prosperous family in the early 19th century. The Montague Association for the Restoration of Community History (MARCH) operates this historic house museum for tours weekends and during special events.
The Minisink Church was the heart, both spiritually and geographically, of the four original Dutch Reformed congregations established in the Upper Delaware Valley in 1737. The present structure was built in 1899, and tombstones in the cemetery date to 1805. Though it remains small, the vibrant congregation is one of the oldest in the country.
Built around 1820, this house’s construction is attributed to George Nelden, who acquired the property in 1816. The Roberts Family was the last owners of the house, along with the farmstead located across US 206.
Built by Johannis Westbrook, this is the oldest house located in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, possibly predating 1730, and was lived in by nine generations of the family until the acquisition of the property by the federal government.
While nothing remains today, this was the site of Fort Namanock during the French and Indian War (1754-1763). Forts in this time and era were little more than sturdy houses with a wooden defensive fence surrounding them.
As with other historic homes along Old Mine Road, the landscape would have been quite different one hundred years ago – open fields, a clear view to the river, and several farm outbuildings. For 48 consecutive years, Alonzo Depue recorded temperature and precipitation readings for the U.S. Weather Service from a weather station near the road without missing a day.
In the late 19th century, this little stone building was the rear kitchen attached to a large farmhouse. Local tradition holds that the original structure was used as a French and Indian War fortification, known as Fort Carmer.
Peter Van Nest, a land surveyor, laid out the roads in the area and had them intersect outside of his home in 1867. Over the years, the hamlet’s name changed several times, including Hen’s Foot Corner and Bevans, before its current name of Peters Valley. Through a partnership with the National Park Service, Peters Valley School of Craft operates an active school of fine craft. Stop by the Craft Store and Gallery to browse artisan’s wares, learn about 209 workshop offerings, and find out more about the weekend self-guided tours of the village.
Like other villages along the Old Mine Road, the Kittatinny Ridge to the east and the highlands of New Jersey to the north isolated the hamlet of Walpack Center. Area farmers found what they needed at the village’s general store, post office, blacksmith shop, church, and school. By the early 20th century, however, automobiles and larger farms proved to be too much competition and the village began its decline. Today, the Walpack Historical Society operates a museum in the First Rosenkrans House on summer weekends.
While it is called an “inn,” it is more accurately a “yaugh house”—a rural residence in a remote area that was licensed under colonial law to provide food and shelter to travelers. During the French & Indian War (1754-1763), the Van Campen Inn “provided a safe haven
when settlers ed for protection from Indian attack” and in November 1763, 150 settlers sought shelter in the “stout walls” of the house. The Walpack Historical Society offers tours of the house on most Sundays during the summer.
Constructed in the early 1800s, numerous changes over the years enlarged this once small house. As the house expanded, it also changed uses, including serving as the Flatbrook Hotel hunting lodge, the Losey Boarding House, and Salamovka – a summer retreat for Russian emigrants.
In 1832, Abram Garis built a grist mill along the Van Campen Brook. The mill soon attracted other businesses and by 1875, Millbrook was a thriving farm village. By 1910, most businesses had closed their doors. Today, only a handful of original Millbrook buildings remain. Other buildings have been moved from other sites or are newly built to help depict village life in the valley during the late 19th and early 20th century. On summer weekends and during special events, several buildings are open, with park staff and Millbrook Village Society volunteers demonstrating folk ways of the 1800s.
In the 19th century, schools were located in places that would allow students to walk no more than four or five miles to attend. In 1881, the Calno School District counted 48 school-age youth, but only 30 were on the school’s register and the average daily attendance was only 15. The poorly paid teachers boarded with local families and seldom stayed more than a year or two. When this school was in operation, there was also a school in Millbrook Village, only five miles north.
The Coppermine Trail passes by the foundation of the Pahaquarry Copper Mine processing mill and mine shafts. Brief periods of mining attempted during the past three centuries were never successful, despite improved technology and mineral extraction methods. In 1925, this area became the Pahaquarry Boy Scout Camp and operated until 1971. It was just one of numerous scout and church camps that once existed within the park boundaries.
NOTE: Mine shafts are closed to protect critical bat habitat.
Tourist attractions of all sorts once lined River Drive through the Delaware Water Gap. This route, now known as PA 611, passes by many former attractions—but other than the stone guardrail lining the road, little remains of that historic past. Still, the stunning beauty of the water gap makes this short 2-mile drive a must-do during your visit.
The best known part of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is the distinct notch in the Kittatinny Ridge known as the “water gap.” In order to enjoy the area’s beauty, visitors in the early 1820s rented rooms with local families. By 1832, a 25-guest hotel overlooking the Delaware River opened in Delaware Water Gap, and in 1860, the Kittatinny Hotel expanded to accommodate 250 guests.
The popularity of the area surrounding the water gap continued to grow, and additional hotels opened to meet the lodging needs of vacationers. Typically, vacationing families consisted of mothers and their children spending the entire summer in one of the hotels
while the fathers joined them on the weekends. Visitors occupied themselves by hiking, swimming, fishing, dancing, playing tennis and golf, visiting amusement parks, shopping for souvenirs, and delighting in carriage, steamboat, and rowboat rides. According to the manager of the Kittatinny Hotel, “[p]erhaps the featuring asset of the Gap, aside from its beautiful gorge, through which shows the placid Delaware, is its health giving atmosphere, which permeates everywhere and which in itself has given the region much of its charm and popularity.”
By the early 1900s, many people had private automobiles. Magazines and newspapers extensively advertised various appealing destinations for city dwellers. At the same time, improved roads gave people a greater choice of holiday retreats. Weekend excursions began replacing summer- long holidays, and the traditional resort business of the Delaware Water Gap began to decline. The economic depression of the 1930s changed the nation’s way of life, and grand hotels could no longer compete with the new and popularly priced year-round weekend resorts in the nearby Pocono Mountains. A reclaimed the Kittatinny Hotel in 1931, and today, all that remains is the view from the location of this once grand hotel.
This overlook is in the heart of the Delaware Water Gap, between Mt. Minsi in Pennsylvania and Mt. Tammany in New Jersey. Just as it is a popular place for viewing today, this was also a popular stop for the Victorian vacationer. The Indian Head Lunch, a tourist attraction named for its view of the cliff with the same name across the river, offered meals and souvenirs, while the Myrtle William’s Gap Inn provided a place for picnicking and camping.
Today, this overlook provides a wonderful view of the water gap and the trailhead for the Arrow Island Trail. In the early 1900s, however, this was a bustling tourist stop. Minsi Mountain Park encompassed about 200 acres, and a hotel with a few outlying cottages was located on the hill overlooking the river. Inventive owners marketed a nearby slate quarry as a romantic enticement called “the Grotto” and boasted of the clear waters found in the “Minsi Health Spring.” In the location of today’s parking area, the Bear Stop roadside attraction featured caged bears and deer for the tourists’ amusement.
Raymondskill Creek Trail, Pennsylvania GPS 41.290231 -74.840853
The loop trail that leads to the waterfall is only 0.3 mile, but is steep. The three tiers of Raymondskill Falls have a combined height of approximately 150 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania. If the drops from each tier are added together, the waterfall is only a few feet shorter than Niagara Falls. The upper viewing area overlooks the upper pool and the narrow chute of the first drop. The lower viewing area provides an outstanding view and photo opportunity of the falls. A spur trail leads to the creek, but not to the bottom of the waterfall.
• Pets are not permitted on the trail.
• Swimming and wading is not permitted in the creek and waterfalls.
• Stay on the designated trail.
• Restrooms are located at the parking lot.
• The parking lot at the trailhead fills quickly on summer weekends. To avoid the crowds, visit the area before 10:00 am or after 4:00 pm on weekends or visit on a weekday.
Buttermilk Falls Trail, New Jersey GPS 41.137164 -74.888793
The waterfall is located at the trailhead for the Buttermilk Falls Trail, and, therefore, requires no hiking to view. The cascading Buttermilk Falls is considered the highest waterfall in New Jersey at approximately 200 feet. A set of stairs climbs to a viewing platform at the top. The trail continues a nearly 1.5-mile steep climb to join the Appalachian National Scenic Trail at the top of the ridge.
Things to Know:
• Swimming and wading are not permitted in the waterfall and the pools.
• Stay on the designated trail.
• The drive to the waterfall is via a rural gravel road. Driving Mountain Road from Walpack Center is the recommended route, since Mountain Road south of Buttermilk Falls is very rough.
Dingmans Creek Trail, Pennsylvania GPS 41.229294 -74.887212
An accessible boardwalk trail meanders 0.3 mile through a pristine hemlock ravine. Shortly after starting the trail, Silverthread Falls gracefully drops 80 feet in a thin ribbon of water through a narrow geometric chute. The boardwalk continues through dense rhododendron shrubs and ends at the base of Dingmans Falls, the second highest waterfall in Pennsylvania at 130 feet. A wide rock ledge provides the backdrop for this cascading waterfall. The final tenth of a mile is a staircase that leads to a birds-eye view from the top.
Things to Know:
• Pets are not permitted on the trail.
• Swimming and wading is not permitted in the creek and waterfalls.
• Fishing is not permitted between Dingmans Falls and the trailhead parking area between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm.
• Restrooms and the Dingmans Falls Visitor Center are located at the trailhead.
• The parking lot fills quickly on summer weekends. To avoid the crowds, visit the area before 10:00 am or after 4:00 pm on weekends or visit on a weekday.
» Subject to change, please visit the park website or contact the park for updated information before visiting.
Human occupation in the Delaware River valley dates back over 12,000 years when small family bands moved across the landscape, hunting game, fishing the rivers and streams and gathering food from the forests and grasslands. About 8,000 years ago, groups began to travel less and relied on a variety of foods found locally, such as acorns, nuts, sh, deer and turkey. Families began farming about 2,000 years ago, leading to a more settled lifestyle.
The Lenape (len-AH-pay) or Delaware lived in an area they called “Lenapehoking,” which means “Land of the Lenape.” Lenapehoking included eastern Pennsylvania, all of New Jersey, southeastern New York, northern Delaware, and a small section of southeastern Connecticut. While some Lenape lived in large villages of about 200 people, most lived in groups of 50 to 75. The arrival of Europeans in the mid1500s meant drastic changes for the Lenape. European explorers traded iron axes, cloth, and copper kettles with the Lenape for valuable animal
furs. In addition to the rich natural resources, Europeans also wanted land. Conflicts arose between the Lenape and European colonists over land ownership. Additionally, the introduction of diseases devastated the native population, who had no immunities. By the mid-1700s, warfare and diseases contributed to an estimated loss of 90% of the Lenape people. During the 1700s, most Lenape people either voluntarily moved or were forcibly moved west, eventually settling in Canada, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma.
Today, most Lenape decedents still live in Canada, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma. Their arts and oral traditions reflect their culture, and they continue to stay connected to their ancestral homeland. The Lenape legacy remains, and their impact is honored through various place names in the park today.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a National Park Service unit that includes 40 miles of the Middle Delaware River and more than 60,000 acres along the river's banks between Milford, PA, and Delaware Water Gap, PA. The park provides outdoor recreation opportunities while conserving the natural, cultural, and scenic resources of the recreation area.
www.nps.gov/dewa | (570)
By Kimberly Blaker
What better way to spend quality time with your family and get in touch with nature than a fresh, invigorating walk in the woods, along a river, or the beach? What’s more, family hikes make for fun learning opportunities for kids and parents alike. So try some of these hiking activities with your youngsters.
Go on an excursion to learn about rocks and minerals. Shorelines offer a variety of stones. Before you go, learn which rocks and minerals are abundant in the area, and have each family member choose several to scout for. Take along a small plastic container with dividers, a descriptive rock and mineral guide, and a magnifying glass for viewing the colors, layers, and details. As you identify stones and minerals, discuss their uses and other neat facts.
Wander through a forest and listen carefully for a variety of bird and animal sounds. Before you go, visit your library for a video or audio cassette of birds and wild animal calls. Carry an audio cassette player on your hike, and record some of the sounds you hear. Listen to the recording
again at home and play a game of detective to determine the source of the sounds you can’t make out. Search the Internet, encyclopedias, and books to discover the makers of the mystery calls.
Capture nature’s splendor. Hiking trails provide plenty of photo opportunities, and kids will love snapping the shots. Discuss in advance what each family member wants to photograph such as a huge oak tree, a monarch butterfly, deer tracks, or a close-up of a nibbling squirrel. When you get home, print out the best photos, then create a nature scrapbook with them.
These giants of nature are not only intriguing because of their sometimes-massive size but also because of the variety and history behind them. Borrow some books on trees from your library that describe the unique features of trees and that offer history on them. Use clues such as the shape of the tree’s leaves, the texture of its bark, and even its size to determine the kind of tree.
Roam the countryside and teach your children directional skills such as how to read a map and use a compass or the sun to determine direction. Before setting out choose a trail system that provides maps, or make up your own. Take a trail that branches off several times, allowing for plenty of skill-building opportunities. For even more fun, turn the excursion into a treasure hunt. Hide a small prize just off the trail under a bush or pile of leaves, mark the location on your map, and let the journey begin.
Take a quiet hike in a wooded area with grassy clearings, and see how many animals you meet. Watch for snakes, turtles, and geese if there’s a nearby lake or stream. Also, look for chipmunks and squirrels playing chase or gathering food; birds of prey circling overhead; or grazing rabbits and deer. Discuss the animal’s unique features and how those qualities help or hinder the animal. Talk about what the animals eat, their shelters, and species they are related to. Also, keep eyes peeled for animal tracks to identify and determine how recently they were made.
Scouting for insects is an all-time favorite among kids, and the variety of creepy crawly creatures in the woods is remarkable. Carry an insect book, clear container, tweezers, and a magnifying glass for close examination of insects’ fascinating features. Bring a journal and track the types of insects you find. Read about insects’ defense behaviors and characteristics such as colors that indicate danger to predators.
Discover with your kids the fantastic diversity of plant life. Before you head out, review some books on plants to spark your children’s interest. On each hiking trip, choose a different trail or area and see what plants grow in certain types of soil, climates, and in each season. As you inspect plants, look for their seeds, and notice the variations. Talk about how seeds travel by blowing in the wind or catching on the fur of animals. Carefully brush away ground covering and look for seeds that have sprouted their roots that will soon develop into a new plant or tree. Learn how certain plants have evolved to have natural defenses to protect against creatures that would otherwise devour them.
You might be surprised to discover nearby trails that you never knew existed. Check with city, county, and state parks and for trails along rivers or near lake shores and beaches. There are also national forests and parks across the United States with extensive trail systems. If you have access to a wooded area near you that isn’t too dense, a trail may not be necessary. When hiking off trails, use safety precautions to protect against tripping, poison ivy, or other hazards.
Plan your activities before you leave so you’ll arrive prepared. For your comfort and convenience, carry a small daypack, extra clothing for cold air along trails, and don’t forget hiking boots. For your protection, bring along hats, sunglasses, sunblock, and insect repellent. Be prepared for emergencies by carrying a small flashlight and batteries, watch, map, bandages, and don’t forget plenty of water and snacks. Finally, make the most of your nature quest by carrying binoculars, a magnifying glass, and a small camera.
When hiking with children, keep these suggestions in mind.
• Allow small legs plenty of time for breaks and making the journey and know your child’s limitations.
• Be familiar with potential dangers in the area in which you’ll explore and teach your children trail and animal safety.
• Before you set out, prepare your children by informing them that there may be rules against bringing their nature finds home.
are well-recognized for their great number of hiking opportunities. There are trails that range in difficulty and feature natural attraction such as waterfalls, flora and fauna, rock outcrops and majestic view sheds. Visit one of these local sources of hiking trails or organized hikes: www.poconomountains.com/things-to-do/ outdoors-adventure/hiking-trails
not just a day of shopping here in the Pocono Mountains—it’s an experience. Wander our historic streets. Explore our art galleries. Find unique local goods. And stop for a bite at one of our top-rated neighborhood restaurants along the way. Discover
Courtesy of
With the kids out of school and beautiful weather here, it’s time to start planning a family vacation.
Family trips are a great way to bond, make memories and escape from the daily grind. If you’re overwhelmed by the idea of planning a trip, don’t worry. These five tips will help you create a getaway that everyone in your family will enjoy (with a little less stress).
The first step to planning any vacation is picking a destination. As a family, brainstorm ideas and come to a consensus on where to go for your summer break.
You’ll need to answer a few questions to determine the best destination for your family. Will you road trip or fly to your destination? Does the destination have activities for everyone in the family? What will the weather be like when you visit? What is your plan for adventure and downtime? These questions will guide your family so you can pick the best vacation spot.
Family trips are a great way to bond, make memories and escape from the daily grind.
A simple way to make sure your location has something that everyone in your family will enjoy is to choose a resort. A great example to consider is Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, where families can simply park and stay. Everything your family needs is available under one roof!
At Kalahari, families can enjoy America’s largest indoor waterparks and massive outdoor waterpark spaces, complete with waterslides, pools, lazy rivers and dedicated children’s areas! They also have massive family entertainment centers with hundreds of arcade games, mini golf, escape rooms, bowling and more.
Have a foodie in your family? Dine at any of the resort’s award-winning signature restaurants or grab a quick bite to eat at one of the many grab-and-go options.
Looking for some pampering? Stop by the on-site, full-service spa. Don’t forget about the retail shops where you can buy souvenirs and gifts, or simply stock up on any items you forgot when packing.
Once you’ve decided on a destination, it’s time to start planning. Planning ahead helps you maximize your summer vacation and avoid potential headaches. Without a game plan, you may become overwhelmed with all the choices available, especially if you are visiting an unfamiliar place. Also, make sure the whole family agrees on an itinerary, so you avoid any squabbles and lost time over where to go, what to do or where to eat.
Research the best family-friendly attractions, activities, and accommodations at your destination, and be sure to include options for each family member on the trip. Once you’ve gathered the information, sit your family down and have each member agree to the schedule.
Summer is packed with local events and festivals, no matter the destination. So, you’ll want to check ahead to see if there’s anything planned during your trip. When you attend these events, you get a glimpse into the local culture and add some excitement and variety to your vacation. But keep in mind this might also escalate prices and crowds - so be sure to weigh the
positives with the negatives based on your family’s interests and needs. Explore your accommodation or local visitor bureau’s website to see if there are any recommendations for local events throughout the year.
Set a realistic budget for your summer vacation and stick to it, but make sure to account for any last-minute splurges like souvenirs or treats. A great way to help stay on budget is to look for bundles and family packages that include accommodations, add-on activities and/or dining. Kalahari Resorts, for example, offers myriad packages to add on to your experience - from VIP experiences and dining packages to spa packages. To learn more, visit KalahariResorts.com.
Don’t forget the ultimate point of your family vacation: to bond and have fun with those you love! A summer trip is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the past year, create stronger relationships, and make memories that will last a lifetime! Be sure to take photos and videos to capture special moments. Make an effort to disconnect from technology and truly be present during the trip.
Using these five tips, you can leave behind the stresses and responsibilities of everyday life and make the most of your summer vacation. Happy travels!
Courtesy of Family Features
As much as you love your pets and work hard to make them part of the family, they’re also a big responsibility. Part of that responsibility includes setting up your home so it’s equal parts stylish (for you) and functional (for Fido).
Show furry friends a little love, beyond the walks and snuggles, by making your home more pet friendly.
It’s common for pet owners to desire a space to keep all their furry friends’ belongings and avoid clutter. Ensure convenience and cleanliness by establishing an area near the door where you can store leashes, collars, toys and more. Consider keeping a towel or two nearby for wiping paws (and snouts) after going outside. You can also keep your pets’ beds, food and water bowls in this space so it feels like their own little “home” when returning from a walk or going to sleep at night.
From furniture to decor, avoiding fabrics that attract pet hair is a no-brainer for pet owners looking to escape a constant mess. Silk and velvet are virtual magnets for fur, while alternatives like leather offer more practical choices that are easy to clean and durable.
Reduce your fear of zoomies causing damage to your floors by installing resilient flooring focused on reducing wear. Both durable and beautiful, a variety of Beautifully Responsible floors take on some of the burden of pet ownership with built-in durability for the everyday and the unexpected. With options designed to bridge the gap between style and function, numerous water-resistant and waterproof floors give you and your pets room to live your best lives for years to come without wet shakes triggering worries. Plus, many resilient floors don’t flinch when it comes to addressing muddy paws, often only requiring the mud to be easily wiped away, without harsh cleaning products.
Displaying Grandma’s fine China and your favorite sports memorabilia may not go hand-in-hand with pet ownership –that autographed baseball may look more like a chew toy than a treasured artifact. Instead, prioritize decor that’s washable and sturdy so you can avoid coming home to a delicate family heirloom shattered on the floor.
If you plan on your pets being outside on their own, it’s a good idea to carefully inspect your outdoor spaces before letting them roam. Look for gaps in the fence, identify potentially harmful plants and ensure outdoor structures like grills and furniture are secure.
Find pet-friendly flooring solutions at beautifullyresponsible.com.
Once playtime outside is over, that mess can sometimes make its way inside. Designed to make cleanup easier, many resilient flooring options can make removing messes, odors and pet hair a cinch. From sheet solutions to modular configurations, resilient flooring can typically be cleaned without harsh chemicals – just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning instructions.
Many Beautifully Responsible resilient floors are durable enough to stand up to those zoomies. These options are ready for your dogs’ and cats’ fastest sprints, and make for quick clean up when they accidentally turn over a favorite flowerpot or their own water bowls.
Those vigorous tail wags near a fresh bowl of water lead to even good boys and girls causing a spill now and then. With many waterproof and water-resistant options for even the messiest of pets, you can be more confident in resilient floors standing up to spills so you can forgive puppy-dog eyes even faster.
Summer may be coming to an end, but there’s still plenty of time to enjoy fresh vegetables from the garden. Believe it or not, this is the perfect time of year to plant some of your favorite veggies!
Cold crops, or cool-season crops, are usually the first to be planted in the spring; however, many can be planted again in late summer. These hardy vegetables, like lettuce, spinach, broccoli, and peas, can benefit from cooler temperatures, as long as they reach maturity before frost arrives. That being said, aim to get your plants in the ground by mid-August. Certain vegetables, such as lettuce, mature quickly and can usually be planted from seeds. Transplanting broccoli and cabbage, on the other hand, can help those plants get a head start.
Cold crops can really thrive during late summer and early fall, as there are fewer pests and the summer heat isn’t as harsh. You may not need to water your plants quite as often, but when you do, remember to do so in the morning. Watering at night can sometimes lead to moldy plants. If the weather does get cold earlier than expected, have no fear - spinach tends to be an especially hardy plant. Even if it looks wilted after a frost, it can perk up once the sun hits it.
Courtesy of BPT
Are you one of the 185 million Americans who garden? If not, it's time to consider joining the crowd. Gardening can be an incredibly rewarding hobby, especially if you grow your own produce.
When you grow your own fruits and vegetables, you can taste the difference between a store-bought tomato and one you pick fresh from the vine. Still not convinced? Discover four ways you can benefit from growing your own food.
Growing your own produce guarantees you have the freshest fruits and vegetables at the best price. Inflation is top of mind for most Americans, and one especially spendy category is groceries. According to a recent U.S. Census Household Pulse
Survey analysis, the average spending on groceries for a fourperson household is $1,260 a month.
You can quickly curb your grocery bill by growing your own food. The National Gardening Association found that a 600-square-foot garden, which costs about $70 per year, can yield 300 pounds of fresh produce a year, worth $600. That's well worth the time, expense and effort you put into cultivating your garden. It's a win for your wallet and your taste buds.
Depending on where you shop, your selection of produce can be limited. However, gardening offers the opportunity to expand your palate. With just a few packets of seeds, you can grow a rainbow of flavor in your backyard!
For example, Ferry-Morse, one of the leading and oldest gardening seed brands in the U.S., has a new Colossal Collection of seeds that will take your gardening to new heights. These six seed varieties will grow vegetables double the average size - or double the yield - for extra flavor, value and bragging rights!
The collection includes The Big Dill Cucumber, Jack's Magic Pole Beans, Super Nacho Jalapeño Peppers, Beefed Up Beefsteak Tomato, Sasquatch Butternut Squash and Cinderella's Ride Pumpkins. Not only do they taste good, but they also provide the most bang for your buck. One pack of The Big Dill Cucumber seeds can grow up to $250 worth of fresh cucumbers.
It's not too late to start your culinary adventure either! Plant vegetables like carrots, corn and eggplant - which will complement a goth garden perfectly - in early summer for fresh produce later on in the season, or experiment with edible flowers like nasturtium for a beautiful, tasty garnish.
To start your culinary adventure, visit Ferry-Morse.com/ Collections/Vegetable-Herb-Fruit-Seeds.
Skip the gym and get your hands dirty instead! Tending to your garden is a labor of love and an engaging workout. You'll have to dig, plant, weed, water and harvest. Before you know it, you'll have your exercise in for the day and be one step closer to enjoying the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor. Best of all, you get to do this in the fresh air under sunny skies.
When you grow your own produce, especially if you're growing items you don't usually buy at the store, you'll be inspired to get creative in the kitchen. Tini Younger, a Next Level Chef season 2 contestant, was inspired by Ferry-Morse's Colossal Collection to create a beef stir fry using Jack's Magic Pole Beans.
Start by trimming your Jack's Magic Pole Beans and combine with chopped broccoli, bell peppers, onions, minced ginger and garlic. In a bowl, season thinly sliced flank steak with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt and pepper. Add a
splash of rice vinegar and a tablespoon of cornstarch, mixing to combine.
Add vegetable oil to a pan or wok and place over medium-tohigh heat. Place your sliced steak into your pan and cook for two to three minutes on each side or until brown. Remove your steak from the pan and add your vegetable mixture, cooking for four to five minutes or until crisp. Once your vegetables are cooked, combine them with your cooked beef and keep to the side until your sauce is ready.
Make your sauce in a separate bowl, combining one-quarter cup of soy sauce, a tablespoon of hoisin sauce, half a teaspoon of sesame oil, a tablespoon of your minced garlic and ginger, onequarter cup of beef stock, two tablespoons of dark brown sugar, and half a tablespoon of cornstarch, which will help thicken your sauce.
Simmer the sauce in a large saucepan over medium heat for one to two minutes, stirring consistently. Once your sauce has thickened, add your cooked vegetables and steak to your pan and combine. Plate your stir fry over a bowl of rice, garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, and enjoy!
These are just four reasons to fall in love with homegrown produce. This season and beyond, embrace the green goodness of growing a produce aisle right in your backyard.
Courtesy of Family Features
Whether you’re looking to add value for potential sale or simply create a more comfortable living space, now is the perfect time to breathe new life into your home with projects that provide a high return on investment (ROI).
Consider these top home renovation projects from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products – a leader in innovation, design and production of exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more – based on the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report from “Remodeling Magazine.”
Remodel the Kitchen and Bathroom
The average seller can expect an 96.1% return on a light touch to the kitchen, according to the report, and 73.7% on a modest bathroom renovation. Because personal preferences can vary widely among buyers, minor upgrades can provide a higher ROI than large, upscale remodels. A few easy ways to refresh your
kitchen or bathroom include updating shelving or adding new hardware. Decorative trim and mouldings are also cost-effective ways to add visual interest.
Upgrade with Stone Veneer
As natural and textured home trends continue, homeowners are gravitating toward stone veneer, or manufactured stone, as it can replicate the look of real stone, adding comfort, character and beauty to homes. An option like Versetta Stone from Westlake Royal Building Products offers the authentic, handcrafted look of stone in a panelized format that’s easy to install with nails and screws. There’s also no need to paint, coat or seal once installed. Ideal for its ability to add texture and dimension throughout both home interior (accent walls and fireplaces) and exterior applications (siding, entryways and walkways), stone veneer –which comes with a 153.2% ROI – can influence mood, emotion and energy levels while serving as a focal point of your home’s design.
Depending on the harshness of winter in your area and the age of your home, you may notice certain windows have developed drafts, allowing cold air to enter and heat to escape. Replacing drafty or outdated windows with modern, energy-efficient models is one of the most effective ways to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. Additionally, a vinyl window replacement brings approximately 67.1% ROI.
As natural and textured home trends continue, homeowners are gravitating toward stone veneer, or manufactured stone...
In some cases, applying a fresh coat of paint is enough to refresh your home. However, if you’re looking to enhance your home’s curb appeal while making a long-term impact, consider installing new siding or replacing existing siding. Because vinyl siding serves as an additional layer of insulation, improving the energy efficiency of your heating and cooling systems, it offers a 80.2% ROI. Weather-resistant, low-maintenance siding like Celect Cellular Composite Siding, which is now available in ontrend colors including Imperial Red, a robust shade of red; Deep Pewter, a compellingly modern forest green; and Timberland, a rich, natural brown, won’t warp, sag or buckle and is built to withstand even the harshest weather conditions. Its patented interlocking joints provide a seamless look and it’s easy to install in small spaces, like along a knee or pony wall.
If you want to entertain guests outside, it’s a perfect time to get your patio or deck ready. While a new coat of stain can update your existing deck’s appearance and help protect it, now is also an ideal time to build a deck if your home doesn’t currently have one. When choosing a decking material, cost and maintenance are two factors to consider. Composite decking offers a 68.2% ROI and is low maintenance as it’s not susceptible to cracking, warping and weather damage.
Find more ideas to update your home at WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com.
Barrett
Cresco, PA 570-595-7171 www.barrettlibrary.org
Clymer
Bogdan Protyniak, MD
Colon and rectal surgery
When you need surgery, excellence matters. At Lehigh Valley Hospital–Pocono, you get the compassionate, leading-edge care you deserve. And being part of LVHN’s Institute for Surgical Excellence provides you access to the latest technology, including robotic-assisted surgery. This means a quicker recovery and better results. Experience matters. The more you do, the better you are, and the faster we get you back to being you. LVHN.org/surgery | 888-402-LVHN