Delaware Water Gap Mining Circuit
Exposed bluestone quarry roads above Delaware River
The bluestone that built New York City’s sidewalks came from these mountains, hauled down narrow quarry roads that cling to cliffsides above the Delaware Water Gap. The circuit connects three major quarry sites via original haul roads, including the infamous Devil’s Backbone section where loaded wagons once navigated a knife-edge ridge with thousand-foot drops on both sides. Modern drivers face the same white-knuckle exposure, plus loose shale that makes traction sketchy in wet conditions.
This is difficult territory demanding experienced drivers and proper equipment. Rocky ledges and off-camber sections require careful throttle control and good spotting. Skid plates and recovery gear are mandatory – the dropoffs are unforgiving. Best tackled in dry conditions from late spring through fall. No permits required but check for hunting seasons. The reward is spectacular views of the Delaware Water Gap and a genuine appreciation for the quarrymen who did this route daily with horse-drawn wagons loaded with stone.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2200 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Port Jervis, NY |
| Land manager | New York State Parks |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Official sources | parks.ny.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler run this trail without modifications?
A stock 4WD with skid plates is the minimum — think factory Wrangler Rubicon or 4Runner TRD Pro. The bluestone ledge rock will punish anything without belly protection, and the steep exposed grades demand low-range gearing. A lifted or modified rig will have a noticeably easier time.
When does the trail open in spring and is it passable by late October?
Best window is May through October. Spring mud and frost heave can make the quarry roads unpredictable before May, and early snow can hit the Shawangunks in late October. Check conditions with New York State Parks before you go — the exposed ledges get icy fast.
Do you need a permit to run this trail and are there any fees?
The trail falls under New York State Parks jurisdiction — check directly with the Minnewaska State Park Preserve office before heading out, as day-use fees and access rules can change. No special off-road permit was required at time of writing, but confirm current regulations at parks.ny.gov/parks/minnewaska/.
What's the hardest section and what makes it technical?
The exposed bluestone ledge climbs are the crux — loose flat rock that stacks unpredictably, steep grades with little room to maneuver, and drop-offs overlooking the Delaware River with no guardrails. Traction is inconsistent on wet stone, and the exposed ridgeline sections leave zero margin for a bad line.
How far is it to a gas station from the trailhead and is there reliable cell service if something goes wrong?
Port Jervis, NY is the nearest town with fuel — top off there before you start. Cell service is spotty across most of the 18-mile circuit, so download offline maps and carry a satellite communicator. Don't count on being able to call for help from the ridge.
Trail track
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