Swatara State Park
Swatara State Park encompasses 3,520 acres along Swatara Creek in Lebanon and Schuylkill counties. The park's centerpiece is the 10-mile Swatara Rail Trail, a multi-use crushed limestone trail following the old Lebanon & Tremont Railroad bed through the scenic Swatara Creek valley. The park is unique as a passage point for the famous Appalachian Trail, which crosses through the park along the ridge tops. The name 'Swatara' comes from a Native American word meaning 'where we fed on eels.' The park protects diverse habitats including creek valleys, mountain ridges, and hemlock ravines. Its combination of flat rail trail, rugged Appalachian Trail sections, and water access creates exceptional recreation diversity.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs welcome parkwide; 10-mile flat rail trail suits all dogs; Appalachian Trail only for fit dogs. Abundant water; cleanup.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors love Swatara’s variety: smooth 10-mile rail trail for biking, equestrian, winter skiing; creek-side walks, Appalachian Trail hikes, Pine Grove
Tips from Visitors
- The 10-mile rail trail is flat and perfect for families and bikers
- Appalachian Trail white blazes mark the AT sections crossing the ridges
- Multiple access points along the rail trail allow shorter out-and-back trips
- Waterfalls along Swatara Creek are best viewed in spring
- AT thru-hikers pass through - trail magic appreciated April-June
- Rail trail is excellent for cross-country skiing and fat-tire biking in winter
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Swatara State Park:
- Appalachian TrailFamous 2,190-mile hiking trail from Georgia to Maine crosses through the parkWithin the park
- Memorial Lake State ParkSmall mountain lake park with swimming and camping8 miles away
- Yuengling BreweryAmerica's oldest brewery offering tours in Pottsville15 miles away
Things to Do at Swatara State Park
Hiking Trails
Swatara Rail Trail
EasyMulti-use crushed limestone trail following old railroad grade along Swatara Creek. Flat terrain perfect for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Runs through scenic creek valley.
Appalachian Trail (through park)
StrenuousSection of the 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail crossing ridges through the park. White-blazed trail with rocky terrain and elevation changes. Connects to rail trail.
Waterfalls Trail
ModerateTrail leading to several waterfalls along Swatara Creek tributaries. Best in spring during high water. Some rocky terrain and stream crossings.
Directions
From I-81, take Exit 100 for PA-443 East toward Pine Grove. Follow PA-443 East for about 5 miles. Turn right onto Suedburg Road. Follow Suedburg Road to the park entrance and trailhead parking. Additional access points exist along the rail trail at various road crossings.