Floating on a tube down a river can be a relaxing way to spend the day with your friends and family. However, you can’t just hop on one and float down any river you see. If you’re in the northeast, Brandywine River tubing, DE is one of the most scenic rivers in the area. It’s a great opportunity to connect with loved ones and nature simultaneously.
Today, we’ll share why you need to add Brandywine River tubing in DE to your bucket list. Let’s get started!
Where Is the Brandywine River in Delaware?
Brandywine River, often called Brandywine Creek, is in northern Delaware. The river starts in southern Pennsylvania and snakes its way south into Delaware, serving as a tributary to the Christina River. Brandywine River dumps its water into the Christina River, approximately a mile southeast of Wilmington, Delaware.
Can You Tube Down the Brandywine River?
The Brandywine River is a gently flowing river that meanders its way through Delaware. As a result, tubing is one of the most popular activities. Several concessionaires offer tubing excursions of varying lengths for adventurers.
Because of its gentle nature and scenic views, it’s an excellent river for beginners. In addition to being a relatively mellow river, it has an average depth of 3 feet. This makes it easy for tubers to hop on and off their tubes without worrying about being able to touch the bottom.
However, be aware that some spots of the river can reach over 6 feet deep. You won’t likely be able to touch the bottom the entire time.
Traveler’s Tip: Go for a swim and Sunbathe At the 5 Best Beaches in Delaware.
How Long Does It Take to Tube Down the Brandywine?
Most floating trips down the Brandywine River are approximately 4.5 to 6.5 miles. You should expect these trips to take about two to three hours. However, the time it takes to float your way down the river will vary based on the speed of the river and how many times you stop to take pictures and enjoy the view.
The purpose of tubing down any river is to relax. So take your time to soak in the sights and sounds. It’s not a race to see who can finish the float the fastest. Allow yourself to slow down and take it all in.
Is It Safe to Swim in the Brandywine River?
Due to the gentleness of the river, it’s relatively safe to swim in it. However, there’s always a risk of swimming in any body of water, especially when there are no lifeguards present along the river. You should never swim alone, and adults should always supervise children playing in any type of water.
As with many flowing rivers and creeks, there’s a chance of encountering bacteria and other harmful organisms. Swimmers should avoid swallowing the water and submerging themselves where water could get into their noses. Wear a nose plug or hold your nose if you plan to go underwater to avoid any chance of water getting into it.
Is the Brandywine River Polluted?
Many of the waterways in the northeast, including the Brandywine River, have experienced high levels of industrial pollutants. Contaminants like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and pesticides are commonly in the water. These could pose adverse health conditions in humans and animals.
As a result, you want to limit any chances of the bacteria getting into your body. Don’t ingest water, and avoid submerging your head.
Traveler’s Tip: If you are more of a land person, skip the Brandywine River and Choo-Choo-Choose the Wilmington Western Railroad.
Where Can You Rent Tubes for Floating Down the Brandywine River?
There are a couple of high-quality tubing outfitters that can hook you up if you need to rent a tube. Let’s look at two great options to consider for renting a tube and floating down the Brandywine River.
Northbrook Canoe Co.
Northbrook Canoe Co. offers two-hour and three-hour floating trips down the Brandywine River. The two-hour trip starts at Embreeville and ends at the Northbrook location. It costs $25 per tube; the last available departure is 2:00 p.m.
The three-hour trip runs from Corcoran’s Bridge to Northbrook and costs $30 per tube; the final departure is at 1:00 p.m. In addition, Northbrook Canoe Co. will also transport private tubes for $10.
Wilderness Canoe Trips
Wilderness Canoe Trips offers everything you need to float down the Brandywine River. They’ll provide you with the equipment and a ride to and from the river. You pick the date, reserve your spot, and they’ll take care of the rest.
Tubing adventures organized by Wilderness Canoe Trips start at Smith Bridge and follow the river down to Thompson’s Bridge in Brandywine Creek State Park. There are two departure times, 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., and costs are $22 per tube.
After watching a brief safety video, hop on a bus for a 10-minute drive to the starting point. Tubes will be waiting for you upon your arrival at the river. Once you finish the float, you’ll board a bus back to where you started the trip at Wilderness Canoe Trips.
Is It Worth Brandywine River Tubing in DE?
Brandywine River is the perfect way to cool off during the summer heat. You can relax and chat with your friends and family or make a few new friends with other floaters on the trip. Floating down the Brandywine River is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Delaware in a serene and calm environment.
Bring a dry bag with some snacks, and you’re in for an incredible adventure!
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