Daze on the Delaware

Chris, Kenny and me almost make the self-timer at Dingmans Falls.

We paddled along through all of the benchmark spots: beneath the scenic byway, spotting one or two bald eagles; Big Eddy (the 113-foot deep spot at Narrowsburg); then the No. 9 Railroad Bridge, Masthope, Colang and Kunkeli rapids before reaching our takeout at the Zane Grey Museum, just after the Lackawaxen River confluence. We had originally planned to hit the Lackawaxen at some point, but the levels were way too low. We did however find out that release info can be obtained at http://www.lakelevelppl.com/ or (800) 807-2474.

That night me and Kenny played ping pong on two tables, with two paddles each at the main “lodge.” It was awesome.

TUESDAY: After a good night’s sleep, me, Chris and Kenny took it easy and headed to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, for a short hike to Dingmans Falls. At 130 feet, it’s impressive. We hiked to the top. Note: the bathroom facilities at this place must be frequented by human-sized ferrets.

We started happy hour immediately upon our return to “base camp.” We set up at the main lodge at the BBQ pit and pitched shoes, drank beers and waited for Baker to show. Upon Baker’s arrival, we scarfed burgers and chicken sandwiches, cleaned up and headed back to the house, where we said goodbye to Kenny and ushered Baker into our digs.

Baker is an animal. After some prompting on his part, we played Asshole (drinking game) until about 2:30 a.m. It was devastating to all but Baker, who was gone the next day by 8.

WEDNESDAY: Me and Chris slept until about 11, and realized that despite our banged up condition, we had to press on. We set out to put in just above the Staircase Rapids at River Mile 267 to Sparrow Bush. Even nursing a hangover, it was great. The rapids at Mongaup were fun, even a little sketchy. After, we found the hydraulic power plant on the Mongaup River where, with better planning, would have been a great short trip in addition to what we had already paddled.

On that last night, I took it easy and headed home early (6:30) Thursday morning. Chris stayed behind leaving that afternoon. Great trip; next time we definitely have to hit Mongaup.