From the base of Fairmount Dam to its confluence with the Delaware River, the Schuylkill River is a tidal waterway, with a normal rise and fall of about 6 feet twice a day. The riverbanks in the Tidal Schuylkill are almost completely walled, preventing paddlers from getting off the river. If you are planning an out-and-back exploration from Bartram’s Garden, be aware of not only the Tidal Schuylkill’s lack of egress opportunities, but also its large boat and barge traffic and the timing of the tides (Consult Tide Table).