Hale Eddy, New York is a census-designated place or unincorporated area, on the west branch of the Delaware River. It is less than a mile from Pennsylvania, in Delaware County in the Catskills. Tourist attractions in this area are almost exclusively of the natural kind, with rivers, mountains and parks in all directions.
Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreation River
The northernmost edge of the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreation River is less than 10 miles from Hale Eddy. The river separates New York and Pennsylvania. Rafting, canoeing and tubing are all popular activities on various parts of the river. You may see bald eagles in winter, and the trout fishing in summer is excellent. Along the river is the Zane Grey Museum, and the Roebling Bridge is a historic sight that should not be missed. The Upper Delaware Scenic Byway follows the river, offering spectacular views. Heading north, the road turns into State Road 17, which goes into Hale Eddy. The recreation area is overseen by the National Park Service, which has information on all area sights (see Resources).
Covered Bridges of Delaware County
There are five historic---and one non-historic---covered bridges in Delaware County, all an easy drive from Hale Eddy. You can still walk across most of the bridges, though not many allow cars. The Downsville Bridge is 174 feet long and was built in 1854. The Fitches Bridge in Delhi, New York, is 100 feet long and was built in 1870. The Hamden Bridge, also in Delhi, was built in 1859 and is 125 feet long. The Tuscarora Club Bridge in Margaretville, New York, was originally built in 1870, though this is its second location. It is 38 feet long and includes a footpath across Mill Brook. The Campbell Bridge in Roscoe, New York, was built in 1877, and is on private property. This bridge is 32 feet long. There is a non-historic covered bridge in Arkville, built in 1964 on private land.
State Forests
There are three state forests north of Hale Eddy, each within 30 miles of the area, and there are two more state wildlife preserves within Hale Eddy. To the north is Melondy Hill State Forest, Arctic China State Forest and Steam Mill State Forest. Hale Eddy is adjacent to State Game Forest Lands Number 299, and within 10 miles of the area is the Cat Hollow State Forest and the Whittacker Swamp State Forest. All of these forests are undeveloped lands with trails, streams and ponds. Primitive camping is allowed, but there are restrictions on the number of days you may camp, and on the size of camping parties. Camping is generally prohibited within 150 feet of water, roads or trails.
Cannonsville Reservoir
The Cannonsville Reservoir was constructed in the early 1960s as a water source for New York City, and the town of Cannonsville was destroyed in the process. The reservoir is 15 miles north of Hale Eddy and offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities. Boating and fishing are popular, and you can rent kayaks, canoes and motorboats. Many trails, as well as small roads, wind around the lake and offer great views, as well as areas for hiking, bicycling and picnicking.
Tags: Hale Eddy, feet long, State Forest, Delaware County, Delaware Scenic, Upper Delaware, Upper Delaware Scenic