Speak with a Bike Tour Guide: 1-716-566-7908

Delaware & Raritan Canal

Starts: New Brunswick, NJ

Route: Delaware & Raritan Canal

Ends: New Brunswick, NJ

Delaware & Raritan Canal

Tour 1: June 22 – June 27
Tour 2: July 6 – July 11
Tour 3: July 20 – July 25

Teen Tour: Bikepacking from Delaware to Allentown

Pedal into a 7-day cycling adventure along the historic Delaware & Raritan Canal. This trek offers a perfect introduction to bike touring, featuring scenic trails, charming towns, and rich history. Experience the beauty of New Jersey’s landscapes while building confidence and camaraderie with fellow trekkers.

Teen Tour: Bikepacking from Delaware to Allentown

Pedal into a 7-day cycling adventure along the historic Delaware & Raritan Canal. This trek offers a perfect introduction to bike touring, featuring scenic trails, charming towns, and rich history. Experience the beauty of New Jersey’s landscapes while building confidence and camaraderie with fellow trekkers.

Delaware & Raritan Canal bike tour map

Start Your Summer Bike Tour

Tour Highlights at a Glance

Canal Path Cycling

Ride along the peaceful D&R Canal towpath, surrounded by nature.

Historic Towns

Explore quaint towns like Princeton and New Brunswick.

Nature Exploration

Discover local parks, wildlife, and serene waterways.

Camping Experience

Enjoy overnight stays at scenic campsites along the route.

Who Is This Teen Travel Program For

Middle School Students

Ready to embark on their first extended cycling adventure.

Beginner Cyclists

Comfortable with daily rides of 15–25 miles on gentle terrain.

Nature Enthusiasts

Interested in exploring the outdoors and learning about local ecosystems.

Team Players

Excited to build friendships and collaborate in a group setting.

Daily Itinerary & Map

What You’ll Experience Each Day on This Teen Tour

Please Note: Full detailed itineraries are only available to cyclists and their parents/guardians.

Cultural & Regional Highlights

Italian roast pork roll
washington crossing

Questions?

We're Here to Help You

The Inclusive Value of Every Teen Treks Journey

At TeenTreks, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Your payment covers all aspects of the journey, ensuring a hassle-free summer adventure. Additionally, as a not-for-profit organization, 100% of trip profits are reinvested into supporting youth outdoor programs.

– Cliff Madell, Founder

What’s Included In the Trek?

This experience combines the structure of traditional summer camps for teens with the freedom of a cross-country bikepacking journey.

collage of a bicycle, teenagers eating lunch, and a camp site
teen bicyclist taking a selfie

Safety, Supervision & Peace of Mind

  • 20+ Years

    Zero Major Safety Incidents

  • Experienced, Trained Trek Leaders

    Every leader is CPR/First Aid certified, highly trained in road safety, and selected for their maturity, energy, and care for teens.

  • Daily Safety Checks

    Bikes are inspected daily, safety briefings are held each morning and bike-safety managers are assigned daily.

  • Small Group Sizes

    We keep our groups intentionally small for personalized attention and stronger supervision.

  • Detailed Itinerary Shared Privately

    The full, day-by-day itinerary is shared only with trekkers and their parents or guardians for safety and privacy.

  • Daily Check-Ins

    Trekkers report a daily blog of the day's highlights to be shared with families, leaders report to office daily, office staff are available for updates anytime.

A First Bikepacking Adventure for Teens

This teen tour is designed as a true introduction to bikepacking, where the focus is just as much on confidence as it is on miles. Riding along the Delaware & Raritan Canal, teens ease into multi-day cycling in an environment that feels calm, scenic, and manageable, making it one of the most approachable summer trips for teens.

  • The canal towpath provides a smooth, low-stress riding surface, allowing teens to focus on learning the rhythm of multi-day travel rather than navigating traffic or steep terrain.
  • Small group riding creates a supportive environment where teens encourage each other, share progress, and build confidence with each day on the trail.
  • Evenings at camp bring a familiar, social energy, blending the feel of summer camps for teens with the independence of traveling under their own power.

Delaware & Raritan Highlights

The route follows one of the most historic and scenic cycling paths in the Northeast, giving teens a unique blend of nature, culture, and small-town exploration. This section of the journey introduces riders to the character of New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania at a pace you simply can’t experience from a car.

  • Riders follow the shaded D&R Canal towpath, passing quiet waterways, tree-lined paths, and wildlife habitats that make each mile feel immersive and peaceful.
  • Stops in towns like Princeton and New Brunswick offer a mix of history, architecture, and local flavor, adding variety to each day of riding.
  • Natural areas and state parks along the canal create space for exploration off the bike, from short hikes to time spent near the water.

First Pedal to Final Celebration

The progression of this teen travel program is intentionally structured so that each day builds confidence and familiarity. What begins as a new experience quickly turns into a rhythm, helping teens feel more capable with every mile.

  • The journey begins in New Brunswick, where riders get comfortable with their bikes, group dynamics, and the flow of the trail.
  • Midway through the trip, teens settle into longer rides and begin to take ownership of their daily routines, from pacing themselves to preparing for each day.
  • The final days bring a sense of accomplishment, as the group reflects on how far they’ve come before closing out the experience together.

Confidence and Life Skills

For many teens, this is the first time they have been away from home for several weeks and faced such a clear personal challenge. The combination of distance, responsibility, and support creates powerful opportunities for personal growth that go far beyond cycling. 

Reassuring Parents and Guardians

While riders focus on the next hill or the next viewpoint, parents and guardians prioritize structure, supervision, and safety. Our Portland-to-San Francisco route is designed for high school students, with experienced leaders, clear communication systems, and thoughtful pacing that acknowledges both teen enthusiasm and real-world limits.

Is this a good first teen tour for beginners?

Yes, this is one of the most beginner-friendly teen tours available. The flat canal paths, shorter daily distances, and structured support make it ideal for teens new to multi-day cycling.

What makes this different from other teen travel programs?

Unlike many teen travel programs that rely on buses or fixed locations, this experience is built around movement. Teens travel by bike each day, creating a stronger sense of accomplishment and connection to the journey.

Do teens need prior bikepacking experience?

No prior bikepacking experience is required. This trip is designed to teach the fundamentals, making it a great entry point into longer or more advanced bike tours in the future.

A Different Way to Experience the Northeast

Traveling by bike along the canal changes how teens experience the region. Instead of rushing between destinations, they move through it gradually, noticing details, building connections, and gaining a sense of independence along the way.

Riders experience the transition between towns, parks, and waterways in a continuous journey rather than isolated stops.

The slower pace allows teens to appreciate the environment, from quiet morning rides to relaxed evenings at camp.

By the end of the trip, teens leave with more than memories—they leave with the confidence that comes from completing a real journey on their own terms.

Book a Teen Treks Bike Trip in New Jersey

Contact our friendly team today to learn more and reserve a place for your teen.

Pricing, Dates & Availability

Cost: $1,795 / person

For 6 Days

Other bike tours charge the same price for just 6 days. Teen Treks gives you 6 days of adventure, learning, and lifelong memories – over 3x the value!

  • Early booking is recommended to secure your place.

Your Leader

Get To Know Our Leaders

At Teen Treks, our bike trip leaders are passionate, experienced individuals who are committed to providing a safe and enriching experience for every teen. With backgrounds in outdoor education, cycling, and youth mentorship, they’re more than just guides—they’re mentors who foster teamwork, resilience, and personal growth. Through careful training in safety, first aid, and group dynamics, our leaders ensure every trip is both fun and supportive. They inspire teens to challenge themselves, build new friendships, and develop a lifelong love for adventure, making each bike tour a unique and unforgettable journey.

teen bike tour photo on a giant chair
D&R Canal Trek

Dates & Pricing for D&R Canal Trek

Book now before we sell out. Start by clicking on your preferred date for more info and to reserve your trip.

$630.00 deposit $1,895.00 / person
Open
Filling Fast
Sold Out
$630.00 deposit $1,895.00 / person
Open
Filling Fast
Sold Out
$630.00 deposit $1,895.00 / person
Open
Filling Fast
Sold Out

Save Your Spot

We'll hold your spot for 3 days. No payment due now.

Tour Specific FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About This Tour

What Makes the D & R Bike Trek So Unique for Teens?

This teen tour is designed as a true first step into bikepacking, combining a calm, scenic route with a strong sense of progression. Riding along the historic D&R Canal towpath, teens experience multi-day travel without the stress of traffic or steep terrain. It’s one of the most approachable teen travel programs, blending the structure of summer camps for teens with the independence of traveling by bike.

How Physically Demanding Is a Cross-Country Bike Trip?

This is a beginner-friendly trip with daily rides of 15–25 miles on mostly flat, well-maintained paths. The canal towpath keeps the terrain consistent and manageable, allowing teens to build endurance gradually. It’s ideal for those new to summer trips for teens who want a challenge without feeling overwhelmed.

What Types of Landscapes Do Teens Ride Through?

Riders follow shaded canal paths, quiet waterways, and tree-lined trails that feel immersive and peaceful. The route passes through historic towns like Princeton and New Brunswick, as well as natural areas filled with wildlife and open green space. It’s a slower, more connected way to experience New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania.

How Do Teens Handle Being Away From Home for So Long?

Because this trip is shorter and highly structured, it’s a great introduction to being away from home. Small groups and supportive leaders help teens quickly settle in and build friendships. The rhythm of riding, eating together, and camping creates a sense of comfort and routine early in the experience.

What Happens on Rest Days or in Major Cities?

While this bikepacking trip keeps a steady pace, there are built-in moments to slow down and explore. Teens spend time in towns like Princeton and New Brunswick, enjoying local food, walking through historic areas, and relaxing off the bike. Campsite evenings also serve as natural recovery time, with games, meals, and group connection.

Is This Trip Safe for Teens Over Such a Long Distance?

Yes, safety is a core part of every Teen Treks experience. Leaders are trained in road safety, first aid, and youth mentorship, and bikes are checked daily. The canal towpath provides a low-risk riding environment, and small group sizes ensure each teen receives close supervision and support.

Who Is the Ideal Fit for the D & R Trek?

This teen tour is best suited for middle school students or beginners looking for their first multi-day cycling experience. It’s a strong fit for teens who enjoy the outdoors, want to build confidence, and are excited to be part of a supportive group. No prior bikepacking experience is needed.

How Should Teens Prepare Physically for a Longer Trip?

Teens should be comfortable riding a bike for short to moderate distances before arriving. A few weeks of casual riding, combined with basic fitness activities like walking or light cardio, is more than enough preparation. This trip is designed to teach the fundamentals, so teens build strength and confidence as they go.

General Tour FAQs

More About Our Teen Travel Program

Where Do We Sleep?

Teen Treks groups stay in hostels, hotels, and campgrounds. Wherever you go, you’ll get to know the place. In a major city, you’ll likely get to stay in a hostel right in the downtown area, steps from major tourist attractions and plenty of great restaurants. In the North American or European countryside, you’ll often camp out in beautiful settings, or stay in a hostel that’s part of a historic landmark. Our Lake Ontario Trek, for example, stays at the 1800s-era Tibbets Point Lighthouse hostel.

What are the trip leaders like?

Each group gets two leaders, who will be fun, resourceful adults who love hanging out with kids and who know bikes. Many took cross-country bike trips as teenagers like the ones they’re now leading, and they all complete a comprehensive leader training program and get CPR and First Aid certification. They’re teachers, human service professionals, travel and hospitality professionals, graduate students and college seniors. Some are avid cyclists and travel enthusiasts, while others have served in organizations like Americorps. Their average age is 25 years old.

What makes Teen Treks different from other teen tours?

Teen Treks gives teenagers the chance to discover the excitement and fun of bike touring with a bunch of like-minded people, seeing beautiful natural landscapes and world-class cities while gaining independence and travel skills. You’ll have great experiences out on the road and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Teens who take our trips get a lot of say in what the group does each day, from planning the details of the route to picking out what’s for dinner. If everyone wants to bike hard and get to the beach faster, you can do that. If you want to spend a little more time taking pictures at a breathtaking waterfall or a picturesque waterfront, you can do that. We give our trip leaders lists of activities and interesting sites along the route, but the group has the freedom to follow their preferences – every summer, our trekkers find things to do we didn’t know about, and we add them to our lists for next year.

Teen Treks offers by far the best value in truly extraordinary bike trips for teenagers. Over our history, we’ve run outstanding trips up and down the New England Shore from New York to Montreal, in the Pacific Northwest, and along the California Coast all the way Across America, and through the best sites in Europe. Check out our testimonials and compare our prices to other organizations’. Our trips, our experience, and our rates can’t be beat.

What do we eat?

Your leaders will make sure there’s plenty of food for everyone, and that it’s tasty as well as good for you. Breakfast will be quick but satisfying – hot oatmeal or cereal, for example – and lunch will keep you going with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and sandwiches. For dinner, you may go to a local restaurant or make something hot together, like pasta, flatbread pizzas, or fajitas.

Our trips readily accommodate those with special dietary requirements, and we’re very conscious of food allergies – just let us know what you need.

Why is this considered one of the best travel experiences for teens?

This program is designed to give teens a deeper, more meaningful travel experience. Instead of passive travel, teens actively engage with the journey—navigating new environments, building independence, and forming lasting friendships. It’s travel for teens that prioritizes growth, not just destinations.

How is this teen travel program structured?

Each day follows a structured but flexible format that balances riding, exploration, and downtime. Teens travel together as a group, supported by experienced leaders, with clear daily goals and built-in support systems. The structure ensures safety and consistency while still allowing for adventure and spontaneity.

How does this compare to traditional summer camps for teens?

While traditional summer camps for teens take place in one location, this program offers a moving experience across diverse landscapes. Teens still benefit from structure, community, and outdoor living, but with the added dimension of travel and exploration. It’s a more dynamic and challenging alternative to camp.

What kind of bike should I bring?

We recommend using a touring bike, a road bike, or a hybrid with at least 15 speeds; 15-27 is ideal. If you need to buy a bike, you should be able to get one that will work great for touring for $400-$1000. Teen Treks does not allow participants to use high-performance racing bikes, dirt bikes, fixed-gear bikes, or Dutch-style roadsters.

Your bike should have a set of new tires at the time your trip starts.

Please call or email us if you’d like to talk bike choices.

Who goes on a typical Teen Trek?

Our groups include up to 10 teens, led by 2 outstanding leaders. We try to keep the gender balance even, half boys and half girls, and we group teens by age to create a positive, cohesive social environment.

Some of our trips, like the European Phantom and Pacific Northwest Treks, are designed for older teens, where others, like the Niagara-Toronto trek, cater to a younger age group. When a route will work well for kids across a range of ages, we run several trips, one for each age group. Check out our Trips Table to see what trips we have for your age.

Teens who travel with us have come from all 50 states, Canada, Europe and Asia.

How will I keep in touch with home?

You’ll be able to call home for short chats using the leader’s cell phones every 6-7 days. We provide parents with a trip itinerary and we post regular updates on our blog to show off the adventures our trekkers are having. In addition, leaders touch base with the Teen Treks office daily, so parents can contact us for information as the trip progresses.

What happens on rainy days?

If it’s only raining lightly, the trip will carry on as planned. Heavy rains or thunderstorms are usually short-lived, so your group will sit out the storm in a coffee shop, at a store, or in some other sheltered location, and continue on your way once it passes.

How Do Guided Trek Bike Trips Differ From Planning a Route Alone?

On our guided bike trek trips, we handle all route planning and arrange overnight stops, allowing teens to focus on exploring and building friendships. Our support vehicles, experienced leaders, and small groups provide structure and safety that would be hard to replicate on a DIY ride.

Is this a good option for summer trips for teens?

Yes, this is an ideal summer trip for teens who are looking for more than a traditional vacation. It combines physical activity, travel, and personal growth into one experience. Teens leave not only with memories, but with increased confidence, independence, and a stronger sense of what they’re capable of.

What is bikepacking and how does it work on this trip?

Bikepacking is a form of travel where cyclists carry essential gear and move from place to place under their own power. On this trip, teens ride with the support of a group and leaders, camping along the way and experiencing the journey more directly. It’s a unique way to combine adventure, travel, and self-reliance.

Delaware & Raritan Canal Bike Tour is now open for booking.