Its course takes it from scenic and wild to urban. The overall quality of the water begins as excellent at the head waters and degrades as the river winds southward. The river is not considered to be navigable except after heavy rains or after an occasional dam release. Canoeists and rafters use the river during normal flow. When the river exceeds 30 inches at the USGS Archbald river gage, it becomes challenging with some class 2and 3 white water.
Fishing is the main sporting activity on the river.
Some areas are stocked for childrens fishing derbys. There are special regulation areas and some areas are not stocked simply because the wild brown trout population is abundant. Trails provide scenic paths through forested wilderness and urban greenways. Trails are planned for most of the river with some completed and many under way. Some trails are located along pocket parks.