Mt. Tammany

The Delaware Water Gap’s finest
Knowlton Township, New Jersey | Level: Easy-Moderate

Background Chat: 

If you’re located in Philadelphia or the surrounding suburbs, the elevation of hikes in the area is modest at best. That is why Mt. Tammany is my go-to spot for a relatively quick challenge with a view. It’s also dog-friendly, so I love to bring Merlin with me. It’s my favorite “big” hike to take him on because it’s enough for him to get his Aussie energy out but not too much that I’m over-exerting him. 

Mt. Tammany is located in Knowlton Township, Warren County, New Jersey. It’s the southernmost peak of the Kittatinny Mountains and is part of the Appalachian Mountains. At 1,526 feet tall, it forms the eastern side of the Delaware Water Gap, with Mount Minsi across the way in Pennsylvania. 

The hike:

This 3.6-mile loop can take between 2 and 4 hours to complete. It can be done in either direction, but I suggest going counter-clockwise, starting with the Red Dot Trail and ending with the Blue Dot Trail (Pahaquarry Trail). When you start, you’ll make your way up a casual incline to the iconic viewpoint. It overlooks the Delaware River and Mt. Tammany’s sibling, Mt. Minsi. 

Then, you’ll continue onward and upward, eventually meeting a section that requires scrambling up a steep rock face. In my opinion, this scramble is best done going uphill. Shortly after, you’ll reach the summit. Although it might be crowded depending on the day, it’s a great area to rest and grub out. I will say, don’t get your hopes up for a spectacular view, but you might still end up seeing a hawk or an eagle! 

When you’re ready to continue, you’ll begin going westward on the Blue Dot Trail. This trail is more of a gradual decline, but a long one. When no one is around, I’ll take Merlin off the leash as he loves to run down it. Eventually, you’ll pass a swimming hole and a few beautiful waterfalls. I have personally not gone swimming in the swimming hole, but I have seen people doing it and heard life jackets are recommended. 

You’ll make your way over a wooden bridge and hike along the Dunnfield Creek. This is the flat, relaxing part of the hike. Beware though, it’s pretty wet in this section. After a short walk, you’ll be back at the parking area! 

Alternatives when you’re in the area: 

If you’re looking for something shorter, you can always skip Mt. Tammany and walk along Dunnfield Creek to the swimming hole. Just follow signs for the Blue Dot Trail (Pahaquarry Trail) or Dunnfield Creek. You can also stop at the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center and walk along the Delaware River. There are picnic tables and plenty of green spaces for relaxing.

Getting there:

It’s about 1 hour and 45 minutes from where I live in PA and about 2 hours from Philadelphia. You drive through adorable towns and beautiful landscapes, making it worth the drive. Put on a good podcast or playlist, grab a snack, enjoy a bevy, and mentally prep for a hike that’ll leave you feeling you accomplished.

There are a few areas to park that are all easily accessible right off of Interstate 80. There are two lots, one for the Dunfield Creek Natural Area Trailhead and one specifically for the Red Dot Trail. Follow signs for the Dunnfield Creek Trailhead parking area. If those are full, you can also park at the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center. 

These lots can fill up quickly on warm weekends, so it’s best to arrive early (before 11 am) or after 3 pm. If you go later, please make sure you are equipped to return to your car in the dark, depending on the time of year you go or how late you plan on staying.

Helpful tips:

• Hiker shuttle: If you can’t find parking or want to make a full day trip of your time in the Gap, there is a shuttle service. I have not taken it before, but you can learn more about the Connector Shuttle service on the Go MCTA website. For quick reference, here’s the map and transit schedule.
• Restrooms: As of August 2023, there were porta-potties at the Dunfield Creek Natural Area Trailhead. Although the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center is closed, the toilets there are open. 
• Rest stop: The Delaware Water Gap Travel Plaza is on Rt. 80 W, about 5 minutes from the trailhead.
• Trekking poles: These aren’t necessary, but if you find them helpful, go for it! This is a great hike to get acclimated to rocky terrain, build endurance, or for conditioning.