Delaware and Raritan Canal

The Delaware and Raritan Canal is a historic waterway in New Jersey that links the Delaware River near Bordentown to the Raritan River close to New Brunswick across 70 miles (113 kilometers). Visitors see locks, stone bridges, and maintained banks lined with trees along the route.

Construction started in 1830 and workers dug the entire waterway by hand, many of them Irish immigrants. The project ended in 1834 and linked both rivers for freight transport between Philadelphia and New York.

A former towpath now runs the entire length and locals use it for running or cycling beside the quiet water. Anglers try their luck at many spots while paddlers drift slowly through the natural surroundings.

The waterway is now a state park and visitors can enter at many points along the route for walking or biking. The water is shallow and calm, so it is easy to access for beginners in kayaking or fishing.

The waterway still supplies drinking water to several communities in the region and fulfills an important role beyond recreation. Old weirs and lock gates control the water level and visitors can see the mechanisms up close at some locations.

Location: Hunterdon County

Location: Mercer County

Location: Middlesex County

Location: Somerset County

Location: Burlington County

Elevation above the sea: 19 m

GPS coordinates: 40.40578,-74.63350

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28