Shawnee on the Delaware is a small village with a big history that dates back more than 10,000 years when the area was formed after one of the area's last glaciers melted. With its fertile soil and riverfront location, the village and its surrounding area was later settled by Lenape Indians and eventually by the Shawnee Indians for whom the village is named. In addition to its rich history, Shawnee on the Delaware and the surrounding area offers a treasure trove of outdoor recreational opportunities and other activities.
Hiking
- Shawnee and the surrounding area offers many great trails, including the McDade Trail, which sprawls along a parallel path to the Delaware River, beginning at the Hialeah Picnic Area located on River Road in Shawnee. This 32-mile recreational trail is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and is open for hiking, cross-country skiing, bicycling and walking pets. It features views of surrounding forests, cliffs and the river. You can also hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail, a footpath that spans 2,150 miles from Maine to Georgia. From Shawnee, The nearest access points include one in nearby Worthington State Forest and another in Delaware Water Gap and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Water Sports
- Perhaps the mighty Delaware River is calling to you, or maybe you want to try your hand at a new sport. In either case, consider booking an adventure with Shawnee River Trips, a company that provides kayak, raft and canoe rentals; organized canoe, kayak and raft trips; as well as classes and instruction on water sports, including stand up paddleboarding. If you prefer going fishing, cast a line right in the river or book an outing with Shawnee Fishing Trips, which is located at the Shawnee Inn and Golf Course, a historic hotel that is surrounded by the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area on three sides. Shawnee Fishing Trips has guided drift boat fishing trips available for families, couples, individuals and small groups.
Festivals and Events
- You can do more than just ski or snowboard at Shawnee Mountain. The ski resort hosts many festivals and events throughout the year. For example, in the fall, you can enjoy the surrounding foliage while attending September's Rodeo and Chili Cook-off or you can do a little early holiday shopping at Art on the Mountain, an annual art show held in mid-November. If you enjoy going to the theater, you may enjoy seeing a show at Shawnee Playhouse, which has matinee and evening performances of shows such as the Odd Couple and the Nutcracker Ballet.
Other Nearby Attractions
- If you are a golfing enthusiast, imagine teeing off on the same golf course that Sam Snead and Jackie Gleason once played. The 27-hole championship golf course at Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort is open seasonally, usually beginning in mid-April. Bushkill Falls, which is also known as "Niagara of Pennsylvania," is a must-see attraction located about 10 miles away from Shawnee in Bushkill. Bring a camera with you so you can snap photos along the picturesque path to Bridal Veil Falls or near the 100-foot Main Falls.
