Mt. Tammany Summit

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views

This is a classic run in Delaware Water Gap - and for good reason! As you climb to the summit of Mt. Tammany, it is easy to see why this is such a popular loop, as you are greeted with stunning views of the Delaware River, Mt. Minsi, and the surrounding wooded hillsides. While this is one of the more challenging runs in the park, the views are well worth the effort.

Restrooms located at trailhead; the trailhead parking lot fills quickly on summer weekends.

While you can run this loop in reverse, it is recommended to run up Red Dot Trail and down Blue Blaze Trail as Red Dot Trail is steeper and most people find it harder to descend.

This loop is very popular. Plan to run early, during the week, or during the off-season to avoid the crowds.

You can park at either the Dunnfield Creek Parking Area or the Red Dot Trail Parking Area. Start your excursion on the Red Dot Trail. Follow the red-blazed trail past the junction with the Red Dot Trail Parking Lot Connector and up a steady climb. Continue climbing the ridge, taking your time to slow down and enjoy the beautiful hardwood forests around you while you catch your breath.

After a mile of strenuous climbing, the trail grade becomes gentler, allowing visitors to breathe easy for a short while before their breath is taken away by the jaw-dropping views available at the overlook located on the summit of Mt. Tammany. Be sure to spend some time to take in the outstanding views of the Delaware River and Mt. Minsi which are especially breathtaking in the autumn.

Sadly (or thankfully, depending on you point of view), the climb on the Red Dot Trail ends at this point. Once you are done taking in the views from the summit, continue onto the Blue Blaze Trail. While this trail is still challenging, it isn't as steep as the Red Dot Trail, and the opportunities for striking views along the way make it all worthwhile.

Once on the Blue Blaze Trail, run along the forested bluffs of Mount Tammany for a half-mile, before turning northwest and beginning a considerable descent through beautiful hardwood forests. During the fall and winter, watch your step as the descent can often be covered in slippery, wet leaves.

After a mile of descending, the trail grades soften, allowing visitors to fully enjoy nearby Dunnfield Creek. At the junction with the Appalachian Trail (AT), continue south, following the trail downhill toward the parking area to finish your run.

Mixed hardwood forests surround this trail, with white oak, red maple, and shagbark hickory in abundance.