The Switchback Trail

Map copyright © 1997 by Switchback Gravity Railroad Foundation, Inc.

Click a numbered circle for historical notes about the site. Click a circled-i for locations with visitor information. Trail information, including a fold-out map with historical notes and trail information equivalent to that here, is available at these centers. Click a cell for trail notes about that area.

Due to changes in conditions, use of this information is at the sole risk of the user.

The Switchback Trail is the most historic among the trails in Pennsylvania's Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. It traces the route of the historic Switchback Gravity Railroad, an 18-mile round-trip through countryside once called "The Switzerland of America." It offers enjoyable outings for walkers, hikers, and mountain bikers.

After an orientation to the route and the history of the Switchback, visitors can create their own tours. However, for the newcomer, here are four recommended sets of "tours" -- three for the more leisurely inclined and one for the more experienced:

Mauch Chunk Walker's Tours -- Two recommended walks on the eastern end of the trail exploring historicSwitchback sites.	Summit Hill Walker's Tours -- A combined driving and walking tour of the western reaches of theSwitchback.
Home Stretch Walker's Tours -- Two pleasant and easy walks on the central part of the trail.	Experienced Hiker's Tour -- A hike for able walkers exploring some of the best vistas in the county and rarely visited historic sites.

Check the Switchback Bibliography for more on the Switchback Trail.

To the Switchback Home Page.