Overview
Swatara Rail Trail runs 18 miles from Jonestown to Paxtang in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. The trail follows a former rail line beside Swatara Creek. Trail managers paved 16 miles and surfaced two miles with crushed stone. The route crosses forests, farmland, and small towns. The trail links parks, historic sites, and boat launches. Users walk, run, bike, and fish along the path.
History
Rail service began on this corridor in 1857 under the Lebanon & Tremont Railroad. Freight trains carried coal and goods until the 1960s. Conrail abandoned the line in 1988 after storm damage. The state acquired the corridor in 1995. Local volunteers built the first 3 miles by 2005. Dauphin County and state funds extended the trail to its current length by 2016. The Swatara Rail Trail Council maintains the route and organizes events.
Trail Description
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Jonestown Trailhead (Mile 0)
Gravel parking, restrooms, and a kiosk mark the start. The path follows the creek under a wooden trestle. -
Campbelltown (Mile 4)
The trail passes under Route 322 and offers bike repair stations. -
Riverview (Mile 8)
A shelter, benches, and fishing platforms stand beside the creek. -
Fort Hunter (Mile 12)
The trail crosses a historic iron truss bridge into a state park with picnic pavilions. -
Paxtang Trailhead (Mile 18)
The trail ends near City Island and Riverfront Park in Harrisburg. The lot has paved parking and direct access to downtown.
The trail runs mostly flat with gentle grades under 2%. Trail width reaches 14 feet in paved sections.
Activities
Biking
Cyclists enjoy a smooth ride on paved sections. Gravel bike tires work on stone segments near Jonestown and Paxtang.
Walking and Running
Road runners use the straight, level path for training. Families walk shorter loops between access points.
Fishing
Anglers fish bass and catfish in Swatara Creek. Several pull-offs offer rock banks and fishing platforms.
Bird Watching
Observers spot herons, kingfishers, and migratory songbirds in the wetlands.
Photography
Photographers capture creek views, historic bridges, wildflowers, and fall foliage.
Access and Parking
The trail offers six main parking areas:
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Jonestown – 10 spaces, vault toilet, kiosk
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Campbelltown – 15 spaces, bike repair station
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Riverview – 20 spaces, picnic shelter
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Fort Hunter – 30 spaces, restrooms, pavilions
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Paxtang – 25 spaces, paved lot
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Paxtang Loops – 10 spaces, direct access to Riverfront Park
Parking is free. Users should lock vehicles and hide valuables.
Flora and Fauna
Trees
Oak, maple, sycamore, and tulip poplar line the creek banks.
Wildflowers
Spring brings trillium, bloodroot, and bluebells. Summer displays goldenrod along the trail edges.
Mammals
Deer, foxes, and rabbits frequent forested sections.
Birds
Migratory warblers pass through in spring and fall. Bald eagles nest near Fort Hunter.
Fish
Bass, catfish, and sunfish swim in Swatara Creek.
Nearby Amenities
Fort Hunter Mansion & Park
A 1796 stone mansion hosts tours and summer events.
Paxtang Carousel
A restored 1926 carousel spins at Susquehanna Art Museum.
Jonestown Farmers Market
Open Sundays May through October with local produce and crafts.
Lebanon Valley Rail Trail
Connects from Jonestown west for 15 miles along Quittapahilla Creek.
Dauphin Narrows Boat Launch
Offers creek access for kayaks and canoes near Riverview.
If you need reliable plumbing services in Middletown and nearby areas, visit Murray Plumbing Inc. for trusted local solutions.
Safety and Rules
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Stay Right and pass on the left.
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Use Lights at dawn, dusk, and night.
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Wear Helmets on bikes and skates.
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Keep Pets Leashed and pick up waste.
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No Motor Vehicles allowed.
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No Littering – carry out trash.
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Check Weather before long trips.
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Cell Service is spotty; carry water and a first-aid kit.
Events and Programs
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Annual Swatara Challenge in May offers 10K and half-marathon courses.
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Fall Foliage Hike in October leads guided nature walks.
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Trail Maintenance Days in spring and fall invite volunteers for cleanups.
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History Walks in summer highlight railroad and canal heritage.
Conclusion
Swatara Rail Trail offers clear, level paths for varied recreation. The trail connects small towns, parks, and Harrisburg’s riverfront. Users bike, walk, fish, and bird-watch in a scenic creek corridor. Historic bridges and wildflower displays enrich every visit. The trail’s flat grade invites all skill levels. Free parking and multiple access points make entry easy. Seasonal events foster a strong trail community. Plan your trip and explore the Swatara Rail Trail today.
After exploring the Swatara Rail Trail, be sure to visit the Middletown Area Historical Society Museum.
