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 Reporter |
Summary: Started at RT 402, and hiked the Bushkill side of the Thunder Swamp Trail. I followed the main trail (Side trail ran along Beaver Run Rd) And climbed slightly. The forest was old growth trees, and the trail became difficult to find amongst the pines. Things became wetter as I reached Spruce Run, and hiked through the swamp along it. Here the bugs multiplied and I crossed the tea colored Spruce Run, & saw a snake basking in the waters below.. I reached Hill Road where a passing motorist gazed at me in surprise. Beyond the road the trail ran into a large field filled with flowers and it was difficult finding the trail leading out of it. Once I did, the trail led up briefly a hill, and back into an older forest. Soon, I reached Bushkill Creek, which in a few miles would lead to Bushkill Falls. I was able to rock walk to a bolder mid stream. There I dangled my feet and cooled off in the waters. Soon I continued onwards, reaching the main trail head at RT 402. Trailhead: Started at the crossing of RT 402 (& powerlines) and ended at the main Thunder Swamp Trailhead (Lat:41.128476 Lon:-75.013207) Trail Guides for Thunder Swamp Trail: Thunder Swamp Trail by Keystone Trails () Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: DCNR Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Brian Walter, who has posted 10 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by KB on 8/11/2009 Maybe it was the amount of rain we've had, leading to a muddy "tral" and mosquitos that drained half of our blood, but it was one of the least pleasant hikes we've done in our lives. Boot camp in the swamps of Florida would have been better than this. I can appreciate that other folks have had better times and this wouldn't be a trail if there weren't things worth seeing, but based upon the clarity of the trail markings and the "bang for the buck" in terms of the view versus suffering, it wasn't worth it. For the record, there were 3 of us (all from PA) and we are all in good shape (all trail runners/cyclists). 
Reviewed by NickS on 2/16/2009 Beautiful 2 day getaway hike around 20 mi loop trail from main trailhead on Rt 402. Very nice loop trail, secluded with several nice spots to camp along ponds and streams. Trail has no significant inclines but was rocky in parts where snow cover had melted so good boots recommended. Suspect that in the summer could get very wet in parts. Plenty of water and several picturesque streams. The loop trail has been reblazed orange with plenty of blazes and easy to follow, just watch the forks with other trails.
Reviewed by Joe on 9/26/2006 That's the Bushkill Creek side of the trail, not the town of Bushkill side. The road he crossed is Snow Hill Road, not just 'Hill' Road. A half mile up 402 from the Thunder Swamp trailhead is a cool chainsaw carver's place you should check out called Tree Creations. Neat stuff! 
Reviewed by stevePN on 10/14/2004 These systems of trails offer varied terrain, a plethura of water sources, and bears, so fierce you can scare them off with a bell on your pack! In addition, as long as you are in one of the areas away from the trails and housing developments with relentlessly barking idiot dogs, the tranquility of your surroundings is unmatchable, except maybe if you go someplace else that is better. but hey, these trails are the "Awesomeness fo shizzle" -steve
Reviewed by M.W.R on 3/11/2004 This is a great trail for everyone! There are many different types of wildlife, and very good fishing.(for pickerel) I would have to say that this is my personal favorite trail because of the secluded feeling you have while you are there.
Reviewed by Shawn on 5/8/2003 A great area to hike and awsome backpacking. The entire Thunder swamp trail is about 29 miles not including the side trails. There are two great loops to do. My faverie is the the loop around bear swamp. It is about a 9 mile hike. The first mile or so is the only part you have to do twice. There are red and black spruce, white pine, hemlock and oak. Making for a very intresting area to explore. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Pennsylvania Hiking, Pennsylvania Trails, Pennsylvania Hikes, Pike County Hiking, Pike County Trails, Pike County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||