On-Site Activities

Hiking/ Nature Trails

Step out the door of your cabin and you are on a preserve of over 1000 acres. While staying at Sylvania, guests have the opportunity to enjoy some of the finest nature and hiking trails on the Upper Delaware River. Miles of marked trails lead you through woodlands, ridge tops and river shoreline. The property is exceptional for those that enjoy bird and wildlife watching, wildflower identification, exercise, photography or simply finding some peace. It is the trails and wildlife habitat at Sylvania that bring customers back year after year. The pictures you are viewing throughout the website are all taken here on the property. View our hiking map by clicking here.

Eagle, Bird and Animal Watching

We are located in the heart of one of the largest bald eagle wintering areas in the Northeast U.S. Ideal time is the winter for viewing eagles that can be seen frequently here at the Tree Farm. Along the river and from mountain top trails we are having frequent eagle sightings. Birdwatchers return regularly in early May before the leaves become completely leafed out for the migratory spring birds and ducks. Avid bird watcher that visit seasonally report lists of birds viewed and state that with the varied and undisturbed habitat it provides some of the best birding in Pennsylvania.

Swimming / Boating

While here guests can enjoy over a mile of private Delaware River frontage providing access to the river for swimming, boating and fishing. Many returning customers bring their own kayaks, canoes and fishing equipment. We do have a couple of canoes for our guests to use in the river''s eddy to paddle upstream or anchor and fish in the middle of the deep pool. A walk of 10 min through by trail is required to reach the river from the cabins. If there are physical limitations we can offer some support. View nearby activities for local outfitters and fishing guides. Several rafting and canoe outfitters along the river provide transportation and service for those that want to do a full day trip paddling down the river.

Biking, Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

Use our trails on your mountain bike or in the winter bring your cross- country skis and snow shoes. Unfortunately we do not provide bikes, cross country skies or snow shoes but you are welcome to bring your own. Nearby rental of these items are limited. Equestrians are welcome to bring their horse, stay and use the trails. Contact us for horse boarding options. See nearby activities on the web site for a horseback riding stable that we recommend.

Fishing

At Sylvania there is trout fishing on the brook and in the pool where the brook falls into the river. The Mast Hope Brook runs for two miles through the property; the same stream celebrated by author Zane Grey in "Tales of Fresh Water Fishing." Explore our private trout stream and try your luck. Catch and release only on the Mast Hope Brook

Where the Mast Hope Brook empties into the Delaware River, there is a deep eddy where the angler can try for smallmouth bass, trout, pan fish, shad (in the spring) and walleye. We maintain a stocked pond for young anglers as well. There is a secluded fifty-acre lake on adjacent public lands that is great for largemouth bass and pan fish. A Pennsylvania fishing license is required and can be obtained easily ahead of time by visiting https://www.pa.wildlifelicense.com/
If fishing on the Delaware River only, a New York fishing license is recognized on both sides of the river.