Running Free: Sojourn Invites Paddlers To Experience The Delaware

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — The Delaware River Sojourn is set to cast off on June 17 in what promises to be a unique and memorable paddling adventure.

From June 17 to 23, paddlers are invited to experience one day or all seven on the Delaware River in an experience that combines guided paddling excursions, interpretive programs, and camping.

This year's sojourn will explore 65 miles of the upper and middle Delaware from Hancock, New York, to Phillipsburg, New Jersey. Participants may sign up for the entire trip or the day(s) of their choice.

"The Sojourn is a paddling adventure geared for everyone, a wonderful way to learn about and discover the Delaware River," said Mark Zakutansky, Director of Conservation Policy Engagement for the Appalachian Mountain Club and Chair of the Sojourn Steering Committee. "Our theme this year is Running Free, and educational programming will be focused on the history and unique habitat of an undammed, free-flowing Delaware River."

Roughly 65 miles will be paddled in 2023, split into daily trips ranging from five to 13 miles. In brief, the Sojourn will paddle the following stretches:

• Saturday, June 17 – Hancock (N.Y.) to Buckingham Access (Pa.)
• Sunday, June 18 – Buckingham Access to NEWE Camp (Pa.)
• Monday, June 19 – NEWE Camp to Callicoon (Pa.)
• Tuesday, June 20 – Dingmans (Pa.) to Bushkill (Pa.)
• Wednesday, June 21 – Minisink Park, Brodhead Creek (Pa.) to Driftstone Campground, Delaware River (Pa.)
• Thursday, June 22 – Driftstone Campground to Martin’s Creek Boat Launch (Pa.)
• Friday, June 23 – Martin’s Creek Boat Launch to Phillipsburg, N.J.

"By getting people out on the Delaware River and experiencing it first-hand, the Sojourn helps create stewards of this important natural resource," said Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) Executive Director Steve Tambini. "The Delaware River Sojourn is one of the longest-running programs of its kind, and the DRBC is proud to have been a part of the steering committee since its early years."

Registration fees in 2023 are $100 per day for adults and $70 per day for children (ages 15 and under). There is an additional one-time insurance fee of $10 per person for this American Canoe Association (ACA)-sanctioned event, except for current ACA members.

Registration fees cover the guided river trip, single or tandem kayak rental (with paddle and life jacket), shuttle transportation, educational programs, most meals, and optional overnight camping sites. Participants may bring their river-worthy boat, but please note that neither aluminum nor wooden canoes are recommended.

Adult paddlers new to the Delaware River Sojourn are invited to take advantage of the First-Time Paddler Program, which offers a discount on registration available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Registration details, itinerary overview, and Sojourn safety guidelines are available at https://delawareriversojourn.com/. Sojourners can register online using Paypal. Registration-related questions and first-time paddler discount availability inquiries should be directed to Dejay Branch at info@delawareriversojourn.com.