Cliff Trail and Milford Knob Loop

This loop is generally rated as moderate, but it includes sections that are quite strenuous. The ascent to Milford Knob Overlook, for instance, features a steep grade averaging 23%. Hikers should have good fitness, and careful footing is required due to rocky and uneven parts, especially along the Cliff Trail section.

The entire loop is approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) long. Komoot estimates the duration to be around 3 hours and 6 minutes, but this can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

The trail is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Parking is available at designated trailheads within the Cliff Park section. Specific parking information is usually available on the National Park Service website for the Delaware Water Gap.

Yes, leashed pets are permitted on the trails within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, including this loop. Please ensure your dog remains on a leash and you clean up after them.

The trail is open year-round. While beautiful in all seasons, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. It's also popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter, offering a different experience. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.

Hikers are treated to spectacular panoramic views. Key highlights include the View of Milford from Milford Knob, offering vistas of the historic town and the Delaware River. The Cliff Park Trail section provides 180-degree overlooks of the Delaware River Valley, including the View of the Delaware River Valley. On clear days, you might even spot the High Point Monument in New Jersey.

The terrain is diverse. The Milford Knob section starts with a gradual uphill on a gravel path, transitioning to a significantly steeper ascent. The Cliff Trail is rocky and uneven in parts, requiring careful footing. You'll traverse lowland forest, mixed hardwood, and scrub upland forest.

Generally, there are no entrance fees to access the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area itself. However, some specific areas or facilities within the park might have fees. It's always best to check the official National Park Service website for the most current information regarding permits or fees before your visit.

While some sections of the Cliff Park area are moderately easy, the combined loop, particularly the strenuous climb to Milford Knob, makes it challenging for beginners or very young children. It requires good fitness and careful footing. Families with experienced hikers might enjoy it, but it's not ideal for those new to hiking or seeking a very easy stroll.

Yes, the route utilizes sections of several official trails. You'll primarily be on the Cliff Trail and Milford Knob Trail, but it also passes through parts of the Quarry Path, Buchanan Trail, and Pond Loop Trail, offering connections to a wider network within the Cliff Park System.

Yes, the area is open year-round, and the trail is popular for winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. However, winter conditions can make the trail more challenging due to ice and snow, especially on steeper or rocky sections. Always be prepared with appropriate gear and check conditions before you go.