I've heard complaints about the Thunder Swamp Trail being too rocky, to rugged and too hard to follow, but I have to disagree. Now, I'm sure in the thick of summer some spots can become overgrown, but that's too be expected of such a lightly used trail. I've mostly hiked this trail system in fall and winter and I've enjoyed it each time.
Don't expect big, sweeping vistas along the TST. The beauty here lies in that ruggedness some complain about. Keep your eyes open for glacial rock features be and the unique geology that surrounds the many swamps you'll navigate along the way. Also, expect wet trail conditions in several spots and interesting water crossings.. swamps are known for being wet
While there are rocky sections of the trail, it's not true for it's entirety. At least, I don't think it's all that bad, but I am a Pennsylvania native and rocks are just a way of life.
The entire trail, main loop and north east spur can probably be completed in 2 days, but I would suggest making it...
Read moreWe only did about 3mi counterclockwise from the trail head parking on Google Maps. It was slow going with a backpack full of gear. It was very rugged, rocky, wet, overgrown, and a little tough to follow at one point. You don't need to bring trail snacks because you are going to eat a lot of spiders! There were people camping right on the trail and several unused, makeshift campsites on the trail and river. Tropical Storm Debby just passed, so the river was raging! We went way off trail to camp, which was serene. I suggest a hammock tent. You'll be lulled to sleep by the sound of...
Read moreThis is for the southern thunder swamp parking area at 6 oclick on the thunder swamp trail loop. Backpacked to bushkill creek and camped. Trail is not steep but areas of broken rock make you pay attention for each step in some areas Trail winds through ferns and forest. Tent camping sites along bushkill creek. Saw a...
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