The Delaware Canal Towpath is a scenic and family-friendly attraction in Bucks County, perfect for parents and kids looking to combine outdoor fun with fresh air and history. 

This 60-mile stretch follows the Delaware River, offering flat, shady trails that are easy to navigate — even for younger riders. Families can start small or go big, enjoying an adventure tailored to their pace. Along the way, you’ll discover the best spots to begin your ride and the tastiest ice cream stops to reward your efforts.

What Makes the Delaware Canal Towpath Ideal for Family Bike Rides?

The Delaware Canal State Park, stretching from Easton to Bristol, is a scenic recreational corridor through Bucks County. The towpath’s flat, car-free design makes it safe and welcoming for children of all ages. Families can enjoy spotting wildlife, crossing historic stone bridges, and exploring charming riverside towns. 

Since the trail is out-and-back, you can ride as little or as much as you want, making it perfect for flexible family outings. It’s more than just a bike path; it serves as an outdoor classroom with lessons in nature, history, and local culture throughout the ride.

The Adventure Itself: What to Expect

The towpath features a smooth, crushed stone surface and plenty of shade, making it an ideal spot for beginner riders. Families typically enjoy biking between two and six miles, taking delightful breaks at various benches or grassy areas along the way. 

The scenery beautifully transitions from tranquil stretches of trees and water to vibrant town centers brimming with shops and restaurants. You’ll discover highlights like charming canal locks, the flowing Delaware River, and stunning bridges that are perfect for photos. Many families happily extend their adventures with a picnic, a fun stop at a playground, or some shopping in the lovely riverside towns of New Hope or Yardley!

What Kids Love

For kids, biking the towpath feels like an adventure. They’ll love riding under leafy tunnels, spotting ducks and turtles, and waving to fellow bikers and walkers. 

Exploring the old canal locks and bridges adds a hands-on history lesson that’s anything but boring. And of course, the promise of an ice cream stop in towns like New Hope or Yardley makes the ride even sweeter.

What Parents Need to Know

The trail features crushed stone, perfect for children’s bikes — just remember those helmets and sturdy tires for extra safety. You’ll find restrooms at most trailheads, but bringing along water and snacks is a great idea for those longer adventures. 

Since the path is shared with walkers and joggers, remember to practice bike etiquette and yield to those on foot. Additionally, many access points provide convenient and affordable parking, so you can easily kick off your fun-filled journey in nature.

Delaware Canal Towpath Access Points with Parking

Popular family starting points include Yardley, Washington Crossing, and New Hope. Each has convenient parking lots and easy trail access. A great strategy is to begin in a town, ride a short stretch, and return for post-ride treats. You can learn more about access points on the Delaware Canal Towpath trail map.

Washington Crossing

• Parking is available at Washington Crossing Historic Park (PA side). From here, you can access the Towpath directly. The lot is spacious and convenient for family rides.

Yardley

• A good entry point is at FitzGerald-Sommer Field (off River Road/PA-32). There’s a parking lot with Towpath access nearby, making it easy to hop on for a ride.

New Hope

• You can park at the New Hope Canal Park (just off South Main Street). The lot gives direct access to the Towpath and is within walking distance of downtown New Hope for shops and ice cream stops.

What to Bring on a Family Day Trip

Here are some recommended items to bring for a safe, comfortable, and fun bike ride.

• Bike helmets (For safety)
• Water bottles (For keeping everyone hydrated)
• Sunscreen (Path is shaded in some spots, not all)
• Bug spray (To avoid bug bites)
• Bike lock (For stops along the way)
• First Aid Kit (for small scrapes)
• Cash or credit/debit card (If you plan to make a pit stop for ice cream)

Best Times to Visit

For cooler temps and fewer crowds, mornings (8–10 am) are ideal. Evenings (4–6 pm) are another great time, perfect for pairing a ride with ice cream after dinner. Weekdays are quieter than weekends, especially in tourist hubs like New Hope, and spring and fall bring the best weather and scenery. 

Sweet Stops Along the Trail

Across Bucks County, you can find scores of ice cream shops to scoop up a frozen treat. Here are the sweet spots closest to the trail.

Dairy Queen

55 S Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, PA

A classic since 1940, you’ll find iconic desserts like Blizzard® Treats on the menu.

Nina’s Waffles & Ice Cream

110 S. Main Street, New Hope PA

A kid-favorite where warm waffles meet scoops of creamy ice cream.

Owowcow Creamery

4105 Durham Rd, Ottsville, PA

Known for small-batch, locally sourced flavors that parents will love too.

Yardley Ice House

77 S Main Street, Yardley, PA

A family-owned, gourmet water ice and custard shop, open seasonally from March to late September.

A Bucks County Favorite for Family Bike Rides

The Delaware Canal Towpath is the perfect blend of fun, learning, and outdoor adventure for a wonderful family day out. Known as one of the best spots for family bike rides in Bucks County, the safe, scenic trails and charming historic sites make Delaware Canal Towpath biking a must-visit experience. And to top it all off, you can stop at nearby Bucks County ice cream shops to enjoy a sweet treat after your adventure.

Lead photo courtesy of Visit Bucks County.