Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park |
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The D&R Canal running through
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| Location | Franklin Park, New Jersey |
| Area | 6,595 acres (26.69 km2) |
| Operated by | New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry |
The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is a special place in New Jersey. It follows an old canal that was once very important for moving goods across the state. Today, it's a popular park where people can enjoy nature and lots of outdoor activities!
Contents
Discovering the D&R Canal State Park
The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is a long, narrow park that stretches across New Jersey. It was officially made a state park in 1974. This park is managed by the New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry.
What Can You Do at the Park?
The park is a great spot for many fun activities. You can go canoeing or kayaking on the canal's calm waters. It's also a popular place for fishing.
Exploring the Tow Path Trail
One of the best parts of the park is the natural-surface trail that runs alongside the canal. This path was originally called a "tow path." Long ago, mules would walk along this path to pull barges filled with goods through the canal.
Today, the tow path is used for many different things. You can go hiking, jogging, bicycling, or even horseback riding on it. It's a fantastic way to explore the park's natural beauty.
Connecting Parks and States
The D&R Canal Trail connects to other trails across the Delaware River. You can even reach trails in Pennsylvania's Delaware Canal State Park by crossing five bridges. This means you can have a really long adventure!
How Long is the Canal?
The main part of the canal is about 36 miles (58 km) long. There's also a "feeder canal" that is about 22 miles (35 km) long. Both parts still exist today and are part of the state park.
Where Can You Access the Park?
You can get to the canal from many different spots along its route. There are small parking areas at most road crossings, making it easy to start your adventure.
Popular Sections to Visit
One of the most beautiful and well-liked parts of the park is near Lake Carnegie in Princeton, New Jersey. Here, you'll find the canal on one side of the path and the lovely lake on the other.
Another nice section is next to the Colonial Park Arboretum and Gardens in East Millstone. It's a peaceful place to visit.
The Canal's Past: A Look Back
Long ago, when the canal was used for transportation, New Jersey was mostly farmland. The canal helped farmers and businesses move their products. It was a very important way to travel and trade before trains and trucks became common.
The canal has changed a lot over time. It used to be a busy waterway for boats, like a "machine" helping the state grow. Now, it's a peaceful "garden" where people can relax and enjoy nature. It's amazing how this historic waterway has become such a beloved green space in a busy part of the world.
