Visit Matamoras

Matamoras is a small borough located in Pike County, Pennsylvania, along the Delaware River. The borough was incorporated in 1850, and it has a rich history that is linked to the early settlement of the region. The area was first explored by Dutch, English, and Swedish traders in the mid-17th century, and it became a major trading post during the French and Indian War.

In the early 19th century, Matamoras became a hub of transportation and industry, thanks to the construction of the Delaware and Hudson Canal. The canal allowed goods to be transported from the coal mines of northeastern Pennsylvania to the markets of New York City, and Matamoras became a vital stop on this route. The town was also home to a large foundry that produced iron goods, including cannons and munitions, during the Civil War.

One of the most significant events in Matamoras’ history was the “Pumpkin Flood” of 1903. A heavy rainstorm caused the Delaware River to rise rapidly, and the waters overflowed into the town. As the floodwaters receded, they left behind a layer of silt and mud that was several feet deep, and many homes and businesses were destroyed. The residents of Matamoras worked tirelessly to rebuild the town, and the event is still remembered today as a testament to the resilience and perseverance of the community.

Today, Matamoras is a quiet and peaceful community that is home to around 2,500 people. The town has a rich history that is celebrated through a variety of local events and festivals, and visitors to the area can learn about the region’s past by exploring the many historic sites and landmarks in the area.

One of the most popular attractions in Matamoras is the Grey Towers National Historic Site, which is located just outside of town. Grey Towers was the summer home of Gifford Pinchot, a noted conservationist and the first chief of the U.S. Forest Service. The mansion was built in 1886 and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodlands. Visitors can tour the mansion and learn about Pinchot’s life and legacy, as well as the history of the conservation movement in the United States.

Another popular attraction in Matamoras is the Matamoras Train Station Museum, which is housed in a restored Victorian-era train station. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the history of the Delaware and Hudson Canal and the railroad industry in the region.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in and around Matamoras. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is located just a short drive from town and offers miles of hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, and stunning vistas of the Delaware River. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, boating, and kayaking on the river, as well as camping and picnicking in the park.

In the winter months, visitors to Matamoras can take advantage of the area’s proximity to several ski resorts, including Shawnee Mountain and Camelback Mountain. These resorts offer skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, as well as amenities like restaurants, shops, and lodging.

Overall, Matamoras is a charming and historic town that offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to explore the region’s rich past and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor recreation, or simply relaxing in a quiet and picturesque setting, Matamoras has something to offer.

Matamoras is a small town in Pike County, Pennsylvania, that is rich in history and natural beauty. Here are some things that visitors can do while in Matamoras:

1. Visit the Matamoras Train Station: The Matamoras Train Station is a historic train station that dates back to the 1800s. Visitors can take a tour of the station and learn about its history as an important transportation hub during the Civil War era.
2. Explore the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a vast outdoor playground that offers visitors a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. The park spans over 70,000 acres and includes 40 miles of the Delaware River, making it an excellent destination for those who love outdoor adventures.
3. Take a scenic drive on the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway: The Upper Delaware Scenic Byway is a beautiful drive that winds through the rolling hills and lush forests of the Pocono Mountains. Visitors can take in stunning views of the Delaware River and surrounding countryside while traveling along this 70-mile stretch of road.
4. Visit the Roebling Aqueduct: The Roebling Aqueduct is a historic aqueduct that was built in the mid-1800s to transport coal from Pennsylvania to New York. Visitors can take a tour of the aqueduct and learn about its fascinating history as a key component of the Delaware and Hudson Canal.
5. Go birdwatching at the Milford Experimental Forest: The Milford Experimental Forest is a research station that is open to the public for birdwatching and hiking. Visitors can explore the forest and observe a wide variety of bird species, including woodpeckers, warblers, and hawks.
6. Check out the local art scene: Matamoras and the surrounding towns in Pike County have a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists. Visitors can check out the Artisan Exchange, a collective of local artists and artisans who display their work in a shared space.
7. Visit the Columns Museum: The Columns Museum is a local history museum that features exhibits on the history of Pike County and the surrounding region. The museum is housed in a historic mansion that was once home to the town’s founder, Charles Peters.
8. Attend a local festival or event: Matamoras and the surrounding towns in Pike County host a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Black Bear Film Festival, the Milford Music Festival, and the Winter Lights Festival. These events offer visitors a chance to experience the local culture and community in a fun and festive atmosphere.