You are probably asking where Long Eddy, NY is and why did I go on vacation there. Prior to this trip with my parents, I had never heard of it either. Once you start looking for vacation spots that are within a 4-5 hour drive from Bucks County, PA, you realize that there are so many places to explore, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. Since April of 2021, I have been exploring many of these areas with my parents, discovering hidden gems and creating lasting memories together. This time, we were particularly drawn to Long Eddy for its serene landscapes and the promise of peaceful nature experiences. Since we were traveling after I had a few conferences for work, my goal was relaxation by a lake, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. My parents love seeing bald eagles soaring above, the sound of waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs, and the picturesque sight of covered bridges dotted throughout the countryside. The thought of spending lazy afternoons by the water, hiking scenic trails, and sharing stories around the campfire made the trip all the more enticing.
VRBO in Long Eddy
After vacations with my parents, we know what we like in a getaway destination. We search for a place where we can explore various attractions during the day and unwind comfortably at night. Cooking breakfast and dinner at the house has become a delightful routine for us, allowing us to enjoy homemade meals while soaking in the atmosphere. As many of you know, I work for Cutco Cutlery, and it’s hard for me to travel without packing a few essential pieces of my favorite kitchen tools. When we look for a house to rent, we specifically search for single-level properties near the water, as this arrangement offers both convenience and stunning views. The house we found in Long Eddy was absolutely perfect; it had everything we desired, from great amenities to a picturesque location. The only issue we encountered during our stay was that the entrances to the bathrooms were not wide enough to accommodate their rollators, which made things a bit challenging. To ensure a smooth experience for our next vacation, I now need to ask how wide the doorways are to the bathrooms in future rentals.
Delaware Highland Conservancy
My first step when planning out what an area has to offer is to use Google Maps after we first decide where we are going. I utilize the search feature to discover the things we like to explore, ensuring we find hidden gems along our journey. I save the spots we would like to explore to my maps and create a list. That allows me to find places easily.
On this particular trip, we had programmed our GPS with a Bald Eagle outlook, eagerly anticipating the magnificent sights we could find there. As we were driving, we passed a sign for the Delaware Highland Conservancy, which caught my attention. I was familiar with the name because they organize Bald Eagle viewing buses in January and February, attracting many nature enthusiasts. Intrigued, we decided to stop by and learn more about the area. I loved our time exploring their beautiful grounds, filled with diverse wildlife and scenic views. While wandering through the trails, I spoke with one of their staff members, who was incredibly kind and knowledgeable. They shared fascinating insights about the local ecosystem and the various species that inhabit the region. In our conversations, they generously allowed us to use their restroom, which was a great help during our visit, making us feel welcomed and appreciated as guests at their wonderful facility.
First, I walked up to the highest point of the area to their beautifully designed pavilion, which offered a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes. They have well-marked paths that guide visitors, making the hike both pleasant and enjoyable. As I reached the pavilion, I was captivated by the breathtaking vistas, where the rolling hills met the horizon, and I took a moment to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of nature all around me. The fresh air and serene environment made it an unforgettable experience, and I truly loved the views from the pavilion, which provided a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation.
As I get older, I find myself loving the solitude and beauty of nature more deeply than ever before. The crisp air fills my lungs with a refreshing clarity, while the gentle rustle of leaves creates a soothing symphony that calms my mind. I could have sat here for hours taking in the beauty surrounding me; the vibrant colors of the flowers dancing in the breeze. Each moment spent in this serene environment rejuvenates my spirit and allows me to reflect on the simplicity and significance of life.
As I made my way back down to the car, I took a detour to visit an area that held the rich history of the land, where old trees stood tall like guardians of the past, and the gentle breeze whispered stories of those who once walked there. This spot also featured a family cemetery, a peaceful resting place adorned with weathered gravestones that told tales of generations gone by. I sat by the bench, soaking in the serene atmosphere, and listened to the sweet chorus of birdsong filling the air around me; it was glorious, a melodic reminder of nature’s beauty that soothed my soul and made me feel connected to the world around me in that tranquil moment.
There is a serene lake on the property, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the vibrant hues of the sky, while the pathway leading to it was filled with a chorus of beautiful birds singing harmoniously. Among the leafy trees and blooming flowers, a delightful family of geese waddled proudly, their soft, fluffy babies trailing closely behind as they explored their picturesque surroundings. The gentle rustle of leaves and the playful splashes from the ducklings created a tranquil ambiance, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the beauty of nature.
Barbara Yeaman Eagle Observation Area
This is our third visit to the Upper Delaware River area, a beautiful location renowned for its vibrant natural landscapes and rich wildlife. It is a Recreational Area in the National Park Service, offering a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. On this particular trip, we headed to the Barbara Yeaman Eagle Observation Area, looking forward to the exhilarating experience of spotting some majestic bald eagles soaring through the sky. Despite our keen anticipation and hopeful gaze, we didn’t spot any this time, yet the serenity of the surroundings and the sounds of nature reminded us that there’s always next time.
Roebling Bridge
After visiting the Observation Area, we headed to Roebling Bridge, an iconic structure that spans the majestic river. As we approached, I couldn’t resist the urge to capture its beauty and pulled out my phone to take pictures. The intricate details of the bridge’s design were breathtaking, and I felt inspired by the stunning views surrounding us. Suddenly, as I looked to the left of the bridge, my heart skipped a beat; there was a magnificent Bald Eagle perched majestically in a nearby tree. Excited by the unexpected sighting, I went running back to the car, eager to grab our cameras and ensure we immortalized this incredible moment forever.
These were the photos of the Bald Eagle perched in the tree and overlooking the Delaware River with my iPhone.
We headed towards the Zane Grey House to see if we could find the tree with the Bald Eagle for a closer view. Along the way, we took a moment to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape. We also added more stamps to our National Park Passport Book, feeling a sense of accomplishment as each new stamp represented another adventure and memory created amidst the wonders of nature.
We found the tree, don’t worry, we used zoom on our devices and stayed away as to not disturb this beautiful animal.
Here are photos that we took with my Dad’s camera. The photo of the Bald Eagle in the sky was along the side of the road and don’t have an exact location.
Travel With Laughter 