National Park Service offers tips for fall foliage visitors at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

DELAWARE WATER GAP NATIONAL RECREATION AREA – The National Park Service is reminding visitors to plan ahead for increased visitation as fall foliage season approaches at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Park officials said parking areas for popular trails can fill quickly and early and encouraged visitors to have a backup plan. If a parking area is full, visitors should go elsewhere because many sites do not have alternative parking and parking outside designated spaces is not permitted.

Visitors should also prepare for significant temperature changes throughout the day. According to the park, temperatures between the morning and afternoon can fluctuate by more than 20 degrees, making comfortable layers important.

The park recommends bringing enough water for everyone, including pets, because dehydration can occur even during cooler weather. Visitors should also wear appropriate footwear, carry the 10 essentials and make sure they are properly prepared before heading out.

Officials are also reminding visitors to take precautions against ticks, including treating clothing with bug spray, tucking pants into socks, changing clothes immediately after returning home and showering as soon as possible after spending time outdoors.

Visitors should also remain aware of bears and other wildlife. The park advises giving all wildlife, particularly mothers and their young, plenty of space and the right of way. Wildlife can become aggressive if it feels trapped or threatened.

Visitors can stop at a park visitor center for information, planning advice and trail maps or visit the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area website for additional information.