Discover the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway: A Timeless Journey Along New York’s Wild River Border
Photo Courtesy of David Krantz
Winding along New York State’s Route 97, the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway hugs the majestic Delaware River for about 70 miles, tracing the border with Pennsylvania and New Jersey. This stunning corridor—often hailed as one of the most scenic drives in the East—stretches from the historic city of Port Jervis in the south (where New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey famously converge) to the charming village of Hancock in the north.
Port Jervis, originally settled by Dutch and English colonists around 1690 as Mahackamack, has a resilient story. Raided and burned during the Revolutionary War by British and Mohawk forces, it was rebuilt and incorporated in 1853, then renamed to honor John B. Jervis, the chief engineer of the Delaware & Hudson Canal. Today, it sits at the lively confluence of the Delaware and Neversink rivers—a perfect launch point for your adventure.
Photo Courtesy of David Krantz
At the northern end, Hancock thrives with family homesteads, active timber logging, and bluestone quarrying traditions that echo through generations. Here, the East and West Branches of the Delaware meet in the poetic “wedding of the waters,” creating a haven for world-class fly fishing and kayaking.
Echoes of Revolutionary History
The Delaware River played a starring role in America’s fight for independence. While George Washington’s famous Christmas night crossing happened farther downstream, those same historic waters flow past this byway—imagine the general and his troops touching the very currents you see today as they prepared for the triumphant Battle of Trenton on December 26, 1776.
Before the Revolution, the wild lands around Hancock were home to remnants of the Wappinger, Esopus, Lenni Lenape, and Mohawk tribes, with only a handful of European settlers. The forests were dense and unbroken: towering pine, hemlock, maple, birch, ash, oak, and cherry trees sheltering elk, deer, panther, wolf, bear, wild turkeys, partridges, eagles, and countless songbirds. That untamed spirit still lingers in the byway’s sweeping vistas and quiet trails.
Endless Adventures Await
Cruise north on Route 97 and let the byway unfold its magic: dramatic cliffs, rolling valley views, and endearing small towns. The Upper Delaware region is a playground for outdoor lovers—boating, floating, fishing, camping, mountain biking, and hiking opportunities abound year-round.
Spring is prime time for anglers, with the legendary Hendrickson hatch (April through early June) drawing crowds to the Delaware and its tributaries, plus the thrilling spring spawning run of American shad. Delicate wildflowers like Dutchman’s breeches, trillium, and trout lilies bloom from mid-May onward, carpeting trails like the Mongaup River Trail and Ten Mile River Trail—perfect for spring hikes.
Year-Round Magic: Festivals, Foliage, and More
Photo Courtesy of David Krantz
Summer bursts with life: outdoor festivals like the tractor parade and Babes Ride Out in Narrowsburg, plus endless recreation on the river. Pack your camera and binoculars for designated viewpoints and lookouts—don’t miss the iconic Hawk’s Nest overlook!
Charming stops include Callicoon, tucked in the Catskill foothills, with antiques, artisan shops, local crafts, and a classic cider mill. Narrowsburg dazzles with its observation deck views, bookstore, antiques, historic museum, tasty eateries, and occasional live music in the Emerald Ballroom.
Photo Courtesy of David Krantz
Fall transforms the byway into a leaf-peeper’s dream—vibrant reds, oranges, and golds paint the landscape (often ranked among the Northeast’s best autumn drives). Winter brings cozy charm with holiday events like Christkindlmarkt, the Narrowsburg Union Holiday Market, and Dickens on the Delaware.
No matter the season or how long you linger, the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway delivers history, natural beauty, and small-town warmth. Pro tip: Fill up your gas tank or charge your EV before heading out—fuel options are limited along this scenic stretch.
Ready to hit the road? Grab your map from travelbyways.com, pack your sense of adventure, and experience one of New York’s most unforgettable drives. Safe travels!
For additional information go to: https://nsbfoundation.com/sb/upper-delaware-scenic-byway/