Blue Dot Trail
Conquer Mt. Tammany for breathtaking Delaware Water Gap views via challenging Red Dot or scenic Blue Dot trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Blue Dot Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer Mt. Tammany for breathtaking Delaware Water Gap views via challenging Red Dot or scenic Blue Dot trails.
"The views from the summit are absolutely incredible, making the tough climb totally worth it!"
🎯 Red Dot Up, Blue Dot Down
Most hikers recommend ascending the Red Dot for views and descending the Blue Dot for a gentler, creek-side path.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Popular trail! Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Delaware Water Gap Views
Summit of Mt. Tammany
Panoramic vistas of the Delaware Water Gap await. Absolutely breathtaking, especially during fall.
Tranquil Blue Dot Descent
Blue Dot Trail
A peaceful return trip following a creek, often with small waterfalls. A refreshing contrast to the Red Dot climb.
Challenging Red Dot Ascent
Red Dot Trail
A steep, rocky climb that tests your endurance but rewards with incredible summit views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer Mt. Tammany: Red Dot vs. Blue Dot
+2Beat the Crowds & Prepare for the Climb
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Red Dot Up, Blue Dot Down
Most hikers recommend ascending the Red Dot for views and descending the Blue Dot for a gentler, creek-side path.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Popular trail! Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Both trails can be rocky and steep. Proper footwear is essential for safety and comfort.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's a strenuous hike, especially the Red Dot. Stay hydrated to make the most of your trek.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Red Dot Up, Blue Dot Down
Most hikers recommend ascending the Red Dot for views and descending the Blue Dot for a gentler, creek-side path.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Popular trail! Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Both trails can be rocky and steep. Proper footwear is essential for safety and comfort.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's a strenuous hike, especially the Red Dot. Stay hydrated to make the most of your trek.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but assess their abilities as it's a challenging hike.
🐻 Bear Sightings Possible
Black bears have been spotted in the area. Be aware of your surroundings and store food properly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers rave about the stunning panoramic views from Mt. Tammany, especially the vistas of the Delaware Water Gap. The option to loop between the challenging Red Dot and the more serene Blue Dot trails is a major draw. Some visitors find the Red Dot extremely strenuous, and parking can be a significant challenge on busy days.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mt. Tammany is located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in New Jersey. The trailhead is accessible from I-80. Parking is available at the lot near the intersection of Mountain Road and Trinity Church Road.
Yes, there is a parking lot at the base of the trails. However, it's very popular and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Public transportation options to the immediate trailhead are limited. It's generally recommended to drive. If using ride-sharing services, confirm with the driver about drop-off and pick-up availability.
The main trails are well-marked with red and blue dots. Using a trail map app like AllTrails can be helpful for tracking your progress and understanding the loop options.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the main trailhead parking area, though availability can vary. It's always a good idea to use facilities before you start your hike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking Mt. Tammany is free! There are no admission fees to access the trails or the parking area.
The trails are generally open from dawn to dusk. There are no official 'closing' hours, but it's advisable to complete your hike before dark for safety reasons.
No, booking time slots is not required as it's a free, public trail. However, due to its popularity, arriving early is the best strategy to avoid crowds.
While Mt. Tammany itself is free to access, some areas within the larger Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area may have fees for specific facilities or activities. Check the official NPS website for the most current information.
Since Mt. Tammany is free, no tickets are needed. If you plan to visit other areas within the National Recreation Area that require fees, it's best to check the NPS website for online purchase options or pay at designated stations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Blue Dot Trail is generally considered moderate to difficult, especially when combined with the Red Dot. It's less steep and rocky than the Red Dot, with a more gradual incline and a pleasant creek-side path.
The combined Red Dot and Blue Dot loop is approximately 3.6 to 4 miles, depending on the exact path taken. Some sources list it up to 10 miles for longer variations.
You'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Delaware Water Gap, the Delaware River, and the surrounding Kittatinny Mountains. The summit views are particularly spectacular.
Yes, the Blue Dot Trail often features small, picturesque waterfalls and follows a creek, providing a refreshing and scenic element to the hike.
The Blue Dot Trail is more beginner-friendly than the Red Dot, but the entire hike can still be challenging due to elevation gain. Beginners might consider hiking only a portion of the Blue Dot or opting for a less strenuous trail in the area.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the most iconic panoramic views of the Delaware Water Gap. Along the Blue Dot Trail, the creek and small waterfalls provide lovely, more intimate photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for photography, offering softer light and potentially fewer crowds. Golden hour can create stunning shots of the landscape.
Drone usage is subject to National Park Service regulations. Check the official NPS website for the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area for current rules and restrictions regarding drone operation.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures of waterfalls. Don't forget a protective case for your gear, especially if it might get wet near the creek.
The main overlook at the summit is a must-see for the classic Delaware Water Gap vista. The cascading water features along the Blue Dot Trail are also highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 However, even the Blue Dot can be challenging, so assess your children's hiking abilities beforehand. The Red Dot Trail is likely too strenuous for most young children. +1Key tips for families: Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider a shorter out-and-back hike on the Blue Dot if a full loop seems too ambitious. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and are supervised closely, especially near the creek and rocky sections.
🐶 Dog Owners
+1 However, it's crucial to remember that this is a challenging hike with steep ascents and rocky terrain. You must assess your dog's fitness level and temperament before embarking on the trail. Always keep your dog on a leash, as required in most natural areas, and be mindful of other hikers and their pets. Bring extra water for your dog, and be prepared to carry them if they become too tired or injured. Cleaning up after your pet is essential to keep the trails pristine.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the vastness of the river and the rolling hills of the Kittatinny Mountains. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance these shots with dramatic shadows and warm hues. Don't overlook the Blue Dot Trail for more detailed nature photography. The creek, moss-covered rocks, and small waterfalls offer opportunities for close-up shots and capturing the serene atmosphere of the forest.
+1 Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the expansive views and a macro lens for the finer details. Remember to protect your gear from the elements, especially if you're hiking near the water. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Path: Red Dot vs. Blue Dot
+1The Blue Dot Trail, on the other hand, offers a more moderate experience. It winds through the woods, following a picturesque creek and often featuring small waterfalls. This trail is generally less strenuous and easier on the feet, making it a popular choice for descent after conquering the Red Dot. It provides a cooler, more shaded, and tranquil return journey.
+1Many visitors opt for a loop, ascending via the Red Dot and descending via the Blue Dot, or vice versa. This combination allows you to experience the varied terrain and scenery Mt. Tammany has to offer. Assess your fitness level and desired experience when making your choice.
+2Navigating Crowds and Timing Your Visit
Weekday mornings are often cited as the best time to visit for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, making the strenuous hike more enjoyable. If a weekday visit isn't possible, consider going during the shoulder seasons or on days with less favorable weather, as this might deter some visitors.
Even during busier times, the trail is long enough that you can often find moments of solitude, especially if you venture further along the path. However, be prepared for shared viewpoints at the summit and potentially a bustling parking lot.
What to Pack for Your Mt. Tammany Adventure
+1Hydration is paramount. Bring more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months or if you plan to hike the full loop. A reusable water bottle or hydration pack is recommended.
Other essentials include sunscreen, insect repellent (especially during warmer months), and a basic first-aid kit. If hiking during fall, layers are advisable as the weather can change. A small backpack to carry these items, along with snacks, is also a good idea.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit