One of the America’s Most Scenic Drives
The Upper Delaware Scenic Byway is one of the most scenic drives in America. Beautiful year round, this byway winds through the pristine countryside and weaves in and out of small towns and old villages full of history, charisma, and charm. The route stretches for 70 miles on Highway 97 North.
History and Quaint Villages
Hugging the Delaware River in southern New York state, this byway is located in the Tri-State area (Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York). The southern end is anchored by Port Jervis and continues northward to the Village of Hancock and under Route17 to the entrance ramp to the north of Route 17 for 15.25 miles. (It does not include the villages of Fremont or Hancock, at this time.)
The area was once home to the Munsee, a small clan of the Lenape. The only remains of these early residents are some barely visible rock shelters. Early immigrants built the small hamlets and communities that line the Delaware River, now a National Wild and Scenic River System. Rail lines and roads were soon built as well as bridges such as the Roebling Bridge, built by John A. Roebling, who also designed the Brooklyn Bridge. This is the oldest existing wire suspension bridge.
Wildlife Viewing, Bald Eagles, Fishing and more!
The route boasts several pull-offs and viewing areas for wildlife and scenic vistas. Bring your binoculars! Bald eagles and 100 other species of birds live along the route. Two eagle viewing areas are located at:
- North of Barryville-Shohola Bridge
- South of Roebling Bridge.
There are also restrooms and picnic areas along the way. Don’t forget to check out the butterflies and other pollinators as area organizations are promoting an increase in pollinator habitats.
If fishing piques your interest, there are many outfitters in the area to help you with gear whether you fly fish, shore fish, or fish from a drifting boat. From April to June, the shad are plentiful as well as the rainbow and brown trout. In the colder months, catch walleyes using minnow bait. The Delaware River is shallow for the most part, but some eddies are pretty deep. The deepest is Big Eddy at 113 feet deep.
Drive, Bike, Run
The Upper Delaware Scenic Byway is designed to be safe for both bicycles and autos. There are trails for mountain bikes and even a disc golf course. Train now for the Stone Challenge, held annually in November. Participants bring a rock (5 lb. minimum) and start at Point Peter, overlooking Port Jervis, and run down the 1.2-mile hill, pick up their rock, and march back up the hill with their rock. You are encouraged to decorate your rock, so it stands out among the hundreds waiting for their runner.
Future Plans
Coming soon! The Callicoon Train Depot is being restored and will be developed into a visitor center for the Upper Delaware River area.
Plan to slow down and enjoy all the area has to offer. Maybe make a weekend of it but do fill up with fuel as the route has limited gas station options.
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More Info:
https://nsbfoundation.com/sb/upper-delaware-scenic-byway/
Events:
Zane Grey Festival July 12, 2025
Port Jarvis Fireman’s Parade July 12, 2025
Orange County Transportation Festival Aug 31, 2025
Stone Challenge, Port Jarvis, November, 2025