Hidden in a mountain gap, the Lebanon Reservoir trail loop offers superb views of fall foliage, historic ruins, a variety of terrain, and a few surprises.
The Lebanon Reservoir in Schuylkill County, PA is superbly situated in a gap hemmed by three mountain ridges, creating remarkable views, especially during autumn. We timed this visit during peak color to experience the spectacular pallet of fall foliage. The trailhead is located at 40.54299, -76.49004. There is a small parking lot that can accommodate four to five vehicles. The adventure begins with the ruins of Swatara Furnace, Schuylkill County’s first charcoal iron furnace.
Head north on the paved road past the waterworks. The road spits after crossing Mill Creek. We took the left side first to explore the base of Siegrist dam. Then we ascended the dam embankment on the right side. At the top of the hill, we encountered a gate that at first glance looked like the end of the line. But the trail skirts the fence and on the right side to give access to the reservoir.
Although there are no blazes, the trail is easily discernable as it passes over mildly rocky terrain then curves down into a scenic pine stand to the lake shore. While tempting, there is no swimming or boating allowed in the reservoir.
There are amazing mountain views made more excellent by the colorful foliage. With the slopes of Second Mountain on either side and Sharp Mountain running along the northern shore, the Lebanon Reservoir was a panoramic kaleidoscope.
After thoroughly enjoying the ambience of the shore, we proceeded east on the trail. We were further thrilled by the rhododendron tunnel. The trail splits at 40.55317, -76.48935. Heading straight at the spit leads to a section of St. Anthony’s Wilderness (Stony Valley) known as Jeff’s Swamp and eventually up Sharp Mountain. However, for this adventure, we turned left at the split to experience the cable bridge.
This is one of two short but fun cable bridges. After crossing Fishing Creek, follow the trail to the campsite at 40.55310, -76.49053, near the eastern edge of the reservoir. From the campsite, the trail turns north and passes over rocky terrain where it is easy to lose. Thankfully, the trail was freshly blazed. Follow the orange blazes uphill to 40.55639, -76.49318 where the trail meets an old grade. Turn left (west) on the grade where it gradually descends the slope of Sharp Mountain. The trail passes by the Lebanon Reservoir, and you can enjoy the views from the north shore from boulders at about 40.54938, -76.49961.
We call the western end of the lake “Newt City”. Visit the Lebanon Reservoir during spring and summer and you’ll see what we mean. As the trail nears the western end of the reservoir, it departs from the old grade and again becomes rocky and challenging to follow. The blazes are also more intermittent here, making navigation more difficult. If you lose what little trail there is, head toward the second cable bridge at 40.54364, -76.51028. Watch your footing on the mossy rocks.
After crossing the cable bridge over the Evening Branch, we continued on the trail through woods to 40.54354, -76.50765 where it joins the Stony Valley Rail Trail. The rail trail is a breeze as it returns to the Siegrist Dam. Enjoy the spectacular views like the one above along the way. The trail narrows to a footpath and partially ascends the slope of Second Mountain as it passes the west end of Siegrist Dam. The trail then descends, roughly paralleling Fishing Creek from a distance and returned us to Swatara Furnace near the trailhead.
Overall the loop we took was approximately 4.2 miles and is given in red above.
Parking is at 40.54299, -76.49004
What a way to spend a few hours in the woods! The Lebanon Reservoir loop exceeded expectations. The views and foliage were spectacular. The variety of terrain and landscapes keeps the trail exciting throughout the trip. Although on the edge of southeastern Pennsylvania, the ridges and valleys of this region gives this destination a feel of woodland seclusion.
We visited during a dryer period, but the lowlands around the Evening Branch and Fishing Creek can get swampy in wet seasons. We recommend this destination for families but be aware that little legs may need help on the rocky sections, particularly at the west end of the reservoir. In the past, the trail has been easy to lose, but with the fresh blazes and the coordinates in this post, you are set up for success.
You can visit these nearby adventures while you are in the area:
Opportunities at Swatara State Park
Be sure to check out our other adventures.
