The best walks and hikes in Swartswood State Park
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146
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19
hikes
Hiking in Swartswood State Park features a landscape shaped by glaciers, centered around Swartswood Lake and other smaller bodies of water. The terrain includes rolling hills and diverse forests, with secondary succession forests, mixed pines, and hardwoods. This glaciated region offers varied environments for outdoor exploration.
Best hiking trails in Swartswood State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Paulinskill Valley Trail — Stillwater Township, a 6.6 miles (10.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate path features minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Crater Lake and Hemlock Pond loop — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, an easy 3.3 miles (5.3 km) path. This route offers a loop around natural water features.
- Local hikers also love the Buttermilk Falls to Appalachian Trail — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, a 3.0 miles (4.8 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 10 minutes.
- Hiking in Swartswood State Park is defined by glacial lakes, diverse forests, and rolling, hilly terrain. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Swartswood State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from 9 reviews. More than 150 hikers have used komoot to explore Swartswood State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
4.22km
01:08
50m
60m
Easy 2.6-mile hike on the Willow Crest Trail in Swartswood State Park, offering diverse forest and marshland scenery with lake views.
10.7km
02:45
50m
50m
Hike the Paulinskill Valley Trail, a moderate 6.6-mile rail-trail in Kittatinny Valley State Park with river views and wildlife.
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5.32km
01:36
190m
120m
Embark on the Brink Road Access Loop, an easy hiking route that guides you through the serene forested landscape of Stokes State Forest. This trail offers a straightforward outdoor experience, covering 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 630 feet (192 metres). You can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 36 minutes, enjoying the quiet atmosphere as you traverse the well-maintained dirt and gravel path of a former woods road.
Planning your visit to the Brink Road Access Loop is simple, as the trail is accessible year-round, making it a versatile option for any season. Whether you are looking for a summer hike or a winter adventure, the route accommodates various activities. Dogs are welcome to join you on this trail, so feel free to bring your canine companion along for the journey.
The Brink Road Access Loop is more than just a pleasant walk; it serves as a crucial connector within the broader trail network. As you hike, you will find that this route links up with the Shay Trail and provides access to the renowned Appalachian Trail. This connection offers a glimpse into the extensive possibilities for longer explorations in the region, making it a great starting point for discovering more of Stokes State Forest.
13
hikers
10.9km
03:44
370m
370m
Embark on the Buttermilk Falls, Crater Lake, and Hemlock Pond Loop, a moderate hike that takes you through diverse landscapes. You will experience a challenging climb alongside Buttermilk Falls, New Jersey's tallest waterfall, before reaching the tranquil waters of Crater Lake. The route covers 6.7 miles (10.9 km) with an elevation gain of 1213 feet (370 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 44 minutes to complete.
When planning your visit, be aware that access to the trailhead for this loop is closed during the winter months. Make sure to check local conditions and plan your trip for warmer seasons to fully enjoy the trail. This will ensure you can access all parts of the route without unexpected closures.
This trail offers more than just waterfalls and lakes; you will also wander through peaceful hemlock groves surrounding Hemlock Pond. Along the way, you can enjoy expansive views of the Kittatinny Mountains from various vista points. A segment of the renowned Appalachian Trail is also incorporated into this rewarding journey.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
5.30km
01:29
100m
100m
Hike the easy 3.3-mile Crater Lake and Hemlock Pond Loop in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, featuring serene lakes and deep woo
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Tips from the Community
Buttermilk Falls is the tallest waterfall in New Jersey. If you want to park your bike at the bottom of the falls, you can climb up to the top and to take in the vistas from the viewing platform.
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Paulinskill Lake was created after a dam was constructed across the river in Stillwater Township in the 1920s. From this point in the rail trail, there is a great view of the lake.
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The Paulinskill Valley Trail is a 27-mile trail that follows along a river of the same name. The trail is mostly gravel and dirt. This section runs alongside Paulinskill Lake and there are several points where you get a great view of the water.
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Crater Lake is a former glacial lake. An approximately 2.5 km long hiking trail leads around the lake. The 'Skyline Drive', a tar road, ends at a parking lot by the lake. Hemlock Pond is nearby and a longer circular hike is possible on the Blue Mountain Lake Trail. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail passes Crater Lake. https://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/crater-lake-trail.htm
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Hemlock Pond is part of the lake landscape in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. From the parking lot at Crater Lake you walk approximately 1 km to the pristine lake in a lush forest of hemlock firs. The Hemlock Pond Trail leads approximately 3 km around the lake. There are several options for taking a longer circular hike, such as walking along the 'Blue Mountain Lake Trail', the 'Crater Lake Trail' or even a section of the well-known 'Appalachian National Scenic Trail'. https://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/hemlock-pond-trail.htm
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Distant views of deep-set Crater Lake, from Skyline Drive, turn into spectacular overlooks as you draw closer to the water.
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The trail loops close around picturesque little Hemlock Pond, which can easily be combined with a hike around Crater Lake, on the opposite site of the Appalachian Trail, or a circuit around nearby Blue Mountain Lake on this side of the Appalachian Trail.
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This is the intersection of the Buttermilk Falls Trail, which passes by one of the tallest waterfalls in New Jersey, and the Appalachian Trail. If you're just out for a day hike, you could extend your trip by trekking south along the Appalachian Trail to find the Crater Lake and Hemlock Pond trails.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Swartswood State Park?
Swartswood State Park offers a variety of hiking experiences with over 10 distinct trails. These range from easy, accessible paths to more challenging, rocky ascents, catering to different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trails in Swartswood State Park?
The park's trails navigate through rolling, hilly terrain, showcasing a unique glaciated landscape. You'll encounter diverse forests, including secondary succession forests, mixed pines, and hardwoods. Some trails, like the Buttermilk Falls – Views of Crater Lake loop, feature significant elevation changes, while others, such as the Duck Pond Multi-Use Trail, are paved and relatively flat.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Swartswood State Park?
Yes, for an easy and accessible option, the 0.6-mile Duck Pond Multi-Use Trail is paved and meanders through a forested area alongside Duck Pond, offering information plaques and a bird blind. Another easy choice is the 1-mile Emmons Path Trail, which follows the northeastern edge of Swartswood Lake under large hemlock trees. The Crater Lake and Hemlock Pond loop is also rated as easy and offers a pleasant walk around natural water features.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Swartswood State Park?
Swartswood State Park generally welcomes dogs on its hiking trails, provided they are kept on a leash. Always ensure to clean up after your pet to maintain the park's natural beauty for all visitors.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while hiking in the park?
The park is centered around Swartswood Lake, a large glacial lake, and features other scenic bodies of water like Little Swartswood Lake, Duck Pond, and Spring Lake. You can also explore diverse forests, observe wildlife such as bald eagles, wild turkey, and deer, and visit historical sites like Keen's Grist Mill, built in 1838. The Grist Mill Trail offers views of Snake Island and a dam with scenic vistas of Swartswood Lake.
Are there any loop trails in Swartswood State Park?
Yes, the park offers several loop options. The 1.5-mile Grist Mill Trail is a moderate to difficult loop that provides rewarding scenic views of Swartswood Lake. For an easy loop around natural water features, consider the Crater Lake and Hemlock Pond loop.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Swartswood State Park?
Hiking in Swartswood State Park is enjoyable year-round, but the period from April to October is particularly good. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural scenery, from spring blooms to autumn foliage, is at its most vibrant.
What wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
Swartswood State Park is home to a variety of wildlife. You might spot bald eagles, especially around the lakes, as well as wild turkey, grouse, and white-tailed deer within the diverse forests. Bird blinds along trails like the Duck Pond Multi-Use Trail offer opportunities for undisturbed birdwatching.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the 1.5-mile Grist Mill Trail is rated moderate to difficult, featuring steep and rocky sections. Another difficult option is the Buttermilk Falls – Views of Crater Lake loop, which covers over 10 miles with significant elevation gain.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Swartswood State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's tranquil glacial lakes, diverse forests, and the variety of trails that cater to different abilities, from accessible paved paths to more rugged, hilly terrain.
Are there opportunities for winter hiking or other winter activities?
Yes, Swartswood State Park remains open in winter and offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice fishing, in addition to winter hiking. The glaciated landscape takes on a different beauty under a blanket of snow.
Is there parking available at Swartswood State Park?
Yes, Swartswood State Park provides designated parking areas for visitors accessing the trails and other park amenities. Specific parking information for individual trailheads can often be found on park maps or signage upon arrival.
Most popular routes in Swartswood State Park
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