A day trip idea from Mount Airy: Delaware Water Gap
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area makes a doable day trip from Mount Airy Casino Resort—it's about an 18–19 mile drive (roughly 27 minutes) and offers river access for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and short riverside hikes. Plan a morning departure for river activities and schedule time to return to Mount Airy for dinner, the spa, or the pool.
In this guide
Overview: why the Delaware Water Gap works for a day trip
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a large riverside park on the Delaware River offering outdoor activities that fit into a single day from Mount Airy Casino Resort.
The site offers access to white-water rafting, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming and multiple short hiking trails—so you can pick one or two activities and still have time back at the resort.
- Distance from Mount Airy Casino Resort: about 18–19 miles (roughly a 27-minute drive) per destination guidance.
- Good for active adults who want river-based activities with minimal transit time.
- Public shuttles (River Runner) operate seasonally on weekends to some river access points—check current schedules.
| Feature | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Primary activities | Boating (rafting/kayak/canoe), fishing, swimming, hiking |
| Typical trip length | Half-day to full-day depending on chosen activity |
| Transit time from hotel | About 27 minutes by car |
Getting there and timing
Driving is the simplest option: allow about 30–40 minutes with traffic for the one-way trip from Mount Airy Casino Resort. A rental car or rideshare is recommended since attractions in the Poconos are spread out and not walkable from the resort.
If you prefer public transit for portions of the trip, Monroe County Transit Authority operates a seasonal River Runner Shuttle on weekends that serves some river access points—confirm current routes and days before you go.
- Recommended departure: morning (8:30–10:00 a.m.) to secure parking and maximize sunlight for river activities.
- Bring a phone with mapping/GPS—trailheads and launch points are spread along the river.
- If you need rental gear or a guided trip, call local outfitters in advance to reserve boats or guides.
| Travel option | Notes |
|---|---|
| Drive (recommended) | Most flexible; about 27 minutes one way |
| River Runner Shuttle (weekends) | Seasonal; check Monroe County Transit Authority schedules |
| Guided outfitter | Outfitters can provide gear, shuttles and guided runs—reserve ahead |
Top activities at Delaware Water Gap
Pick activities that match your energy level—short riverside hikes and scenic viewpoints are easy to combine with a relaxing float or a fishing stop.
Whitewater options and multi-mile river trips are available through local outfitters if you want a longer, more active experience.
- Kayaking or canoeing: half-day rentals or guided trips are common.
- White-water rafting: seasonal runs and guided trips for varying difficulty levels.
- Hiking: short trails and scenic overlooks along the river corridor.
- Fishing and swimming: popular in designated areas—check local conditions.
- Picnicking and photography: many pull-offs and viewpoints along the river
| Activity | Time needed |
|---|---|
| Short hike + overlook | 1–2 hours |
| Half-day kayak/canoe | 3–4 hours |
| Guided whitewater rafting | 2–5 hours depending on trip |
Sample half-day itinerary
This plan assumes you leave Mount Airy after breakfast and return in the late afternoon or early evening.
Adjust timing based on the activity you choose and seasonal daylight hours.
- 8:30 a.m. — Depart Mount Airy Casino Resort (address: 312 Woodland Road).
- 9:00–9:30 a.m. — Arrive at a Delaware Water Gap access point; park and prep gear.
- 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — Guided kayak/canoe trip or a hike plus riverside picnic.
- 1:00–4:00 p.m. — Optional extra activity (short hike or fishing) and return drive to Mount Airy.
- 4:30–6:00 p.m. — Arrive back at Mount Airy for pool time, spa appointment, or dinner.
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 8:30 a.m. | Leave Mount Airy Casino Resort |
| 9:15 a.m. | Start river activity or hike |
| 12:30 p.m. | Lunch at a river picnic spot or nearby cafe |
| 4:30 p.m. | Back at Mount Airy for spa or pool |
What to bring and safety notes
Bring sun protection, a water bottle, sturdy shoes for trails, and a dry bag or waterproof case for electronics if you plan to be on the water. For fishing or boating, bring any required licenses or permits as local rules require.
River conditions and weather change seasonally—check the National Park Service site or a local outfitter for current water conditions, closures, or recommended safety gear before you go.
- Waterproof bag for phone/keys, quick-dry layers, hat and sunscreen.
- Closed-toe shoes for rocky trails; water shoes for launches.
- Personal flotation device if not provided by outfitter; confirm what gear a rental includes.
- Check weather and river flow reports; spring runoff can raise river levels.
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Sunscreen & hat | Sun exposure on the river and trails |
| Sturdy shoes | Uneven terrain at trailheads and launch points |
| Waterproof phone case | Protect electronics during boating |
Return options: unwind back at Mount Airy Casino Resort
After an active day at the Delaware Water Gap, you can return to Mount Airy Casino Resort to use pool and spa facilities or to have dinner on property. The resort's pool area is open year-round (indoor portion) and includes a poolside bar and seating; the outdoor section is seasonal.
Dining options range from casual to fine dining—Bistecca by IL Mulino is the resort's Italian steakhouse (reservations recommended), while Lucky 8 Noodle + Sushi Bar, Pizzeria Montagna, The Buffet and Café Matto offer other choices.
- Pool hours are listed as 10am–8pm daily; outdoor portion seasonal (May–October).
- The Spa at Mount Airy has appointment hours Sunday–Wednesday 9am–6pm and Thursday–Saturday 9am–8pm—book treatments in advance.
- If you plan to dine at Bistecca by IL Mulino, reservations are recommended and there is a formal dress requirement for that venue.
| On-site option | When to use it |
|---|---|
| The Spa at Mount Airy | Book after returning for a massage or wrap |
| Get Wet Pool Bar / pool area | Relax and have a drink after a long day outdoors |
| Bistecca by IL Mulino | Dinner reservation for a formal meal |
Where to stay at Mount Airy before or after your trip
Mount Airy Casino Resort offers several room types that work well for an overnight before or after your Delaware Water Gap day trip. Room options include Suite, Golf View; Deluxe Room; Deluxe Room, Golf View; and Suite.
Rooms include complimentary high-speed internet and access to resort amenities such as the 24-hour fitness center, The Spa at Mount Airy, and the indoor/outdoor heated pool (pool access is restricted to guests 21+).
- Suite, Golf View — one King Bed with views over the golf course (room name exact).
- Deluxe Room — available with 1 King Bed or 2 Queen Beds (room name exact).
- Deluxe Room, Golf View — same bed options with a golf view (room name exact).
- Suite — one King Bed with separate living space (room name exact).
| Room name | Best for |
|---|---|
| Suite, Golf View | Guests who want a golf-view suite and separate living space |
| Deluxe Room | Simple, comfortable stay with flexible bed configurations |
| Suite | Extra living space for relaxing after a day outdoors |
