Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor

Overview

Winter along The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor (D&L) Trail can be a fun, snow-filled adventure. The multi-use D&L Trail spans 165 miles running through Lehigh Valley. This historic transportation route crosses railroads, canals, rivers, and trails. The Lehigh Valley section of the trail is approximately 48 miles and spans the Central region.

No winter is created equal. To make the most of aparticularly snowy year, here are some fun ways you can get on the D&L Trail. Most sections of the D&L Trail do not get plowed after a snow storm. Currently, the only section that is regularly plowed is the trail starting at Riverview Park to Route 33 Boat Launch. While for some area, this might ice over, we challenge trail users to get creative. We’re not always lucky to get a good coating of snow, so try something new.

Snowshoe

If you’re looking for a slower paced activity, strap on snowshoes and take a wintry walk. Wet feet need not be a worry. Snowshoes will help you take a stroll without sinking in the accumulation. Don’t have snowshoes? Look out for pop-up events.

Cross Country Skiing

You can cross country ski on the trail whenever there is 6+ inches of snow on the ground. If you have your own skis, choose the trailhead closest to you. If you’re looking to rent or borrow skis consider one of the Trail Friendly Businesses or another regional outfitter.

Snowmobiling

The D&L Trail normally prohibits the use of ALL motorized vehicles. BUT, winter makes for one fun exception. From White Haven to Penn Haven Junction you can snowmobile. This 15-mile section is the only area on the D&L to allow snowmobiling. Trail users should be careful and mindful. If you’re on a snowmobile maintain safe speeds and be considerate of the multi-modal recreation on the D&L.

Dogsledding

Perhaps the most unfamiliar use of the D&L Trail, is that you can dog sled on the D&L. In fact, there’s one team that regularly trains on the D&L, near Slatington. While it's not recommend for just anyone to rally up sled dogs, it’s one of the many unique ways that the D&L has been used.

The D&L Trail proudly touts multi-modal use. From dog sledding to snowshoeing, a variety of uses and explorations of the trail is encouraged during winter. To be safe and a good steward, always check with local approved uses of the trail. The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor steward works with a comprehensive network of landowners to connect and maintain the trail. To honor these landowners, it is required that all trail users first adhere to their regulations in addition to all forms of trail etiquette.