Discover Adventure Along 35 Miles of Scenic, Wild River in Schuylkill County
The Schuylkill River, running from Pottsville to Philadelphia, is one of the longest tributaries of the Delaware River. From source to mouth, the river stretches over 135 miles, and its watershed covers roughly 2,000 square miles entirely within Pennsylvania. It rises just south of Tuscarora in central Schuylkill County and cuts a jagged path southward where it meets its east and west branches. The river’s course features both urban and rural countryside landscapes. And throughout the its run within NEPA, it passes through notable towns like Pottsville, Schuylkill Haven, Auburn and Port Clinton.
A working river
Prior to Pennsylvania’s industrial era starting in the mid-19th century, the Schuylkill River’s wild banks were fertile hunting grounds claimed by the Susquehannock and Lenape people. Many of their early pathways along the river later became popular trade routes for settlers and pioneers during the early 17th century. Throughout the ensuing centuries, the Schuylkill River played an important role in the formation of cities like Philadelphia, Pottstown, Reading and Pottsville.
A lifeline for industrialized America
During the 19th and 20th centuries, the Schuylkill River became an essential natural resource connecting the booming coal region of Northeastern Pennsylvania to major east coast cities. While smaller than most rivers in NEPA, the Schuylkill proved to be one of the most reasonably navigable waterways. In the mid-19th century, through a series of dams and canals, the Schuylkill Navigation System became one of the most widely utilized river transport systems for coal, timber and other goods.
A comeback story
And while the Schuylkill helped pave the way for America’s rapid industrialization, just over a century later, the detrimental effects of the era began to strain the quality of the water and the wildlife that depended on it. By the late 1940s, a public effort dedicated to cleaning up the beloved river began in earnest. Through decades of regular silt dredging operations, a steep reduction in mining activity and wildlife restoration programs, the Schuylkill River bounced back. In 1978, it was designated as the first Pennsylvania Scenic River.
Today, the Schuylkill River, as a local trout fishery, is in the throes of a comeback. Trout stocking efforts have ramped up in recent years. Water quality is continually improving. Healthy wildlife populations and habitats have started making a return to the river. And perhaps more importantly for communities along the river, recreation is back.
Parks & Trails Along the Schuylkill River
Returning to the River
Fishing and Hiking
As river restoration efforts continued throughout the late 20th century, the Schuylkill River finally received full protection and recognition in April of 1995 when it was designated a Pennsylvania Heritage Area. And five years later, it was recognized as a National Heritage Area. These official designations at both the state and federal levels allowed for funding important recreational projects along the river.
Fishing makes a comeback
As access to the Schuylkill River in Schuylkill County became more prevalent, anglers from all over took to the water in search of wild and holdover trout. Regular stocking efforts within the river’s watershed in smaller streams like the Little Schuylkill River and Pine Creek drove the trout population in the main river to historic highs. Today, this 35-mile stretch of the Schuylkill River has become a popular destination for all manners of trout-seeking fishermen, most notably fly fishermen. The river also holds healthy smallmouth bass, pickerel, catfish and muskie populations.
Scenic hiking
The Schuylkill River Valley offers some of the most scenic hiking in NEPA. From nearby state parks and conservation areas to historic, riverside paths, many of the trails near the Schuylkill River feature the naturally hilly, rocky landscape as the main attraction. You’ll find densely-forested trails that weave through and mingle with the rich heritage of the famous anthracite coal region. And you don’t have to venture far from the river to find expansive, recreation-filled parks. Both Tuscarora State Park and Locust Lake State Park are only a few miles from the river.
Follow the river
Additionally, the Schuylkill River Trail follows old railroad beds along the riverbanks. The trail brings you up close and personal to remnants of the canal system, the railroad and other reminders of our industrial past. Please note that not all sections of the trail are completed and continue as “on-road” segments. Find completed sections of the trail in Frackville, Auburn, Port Clinton, Landingville and Mount Carbon. Many of the Schuylkill River Trailheads also serve as access points for boating and fishing.
Big Dady Rods in Pottsville has been creating custom, hand crafted fishing rods for over 45 years. Whether you’re into fly fishing, spin fishing or throwing the old bait caster, they’ll craft a rod specific to your angling needs. Big Dady Rods can also build custom saltwater fishing rods. Stop by. Check out their website or call to schedule a design consultation.
Kayaking, Canoeing and Wildlife Viewing
Just can’t beat the view from the water
Kayaking and Canoeing has become one of the most popular recreational activities on the Schuylkill River. Several launch areas along the river provide easy portage access. For some, it’s all about the Schuylkill’s wild turns as it thins out and rushes between steep mountain faces. And still others enjoy the slower pace to the more rural stretches of river. The “Chutes” is a popular feature located just below the access area in Auburn. Here, adventurers cautiously paddle beneath a low-profile, stone railroad bridge through tight arches.
The Schuylkill River Water Trail, established by Schuylkill River Greenways, marks access points along the 137-mile river from Tuscarora to Philadelphia. Visit their website for maps and up-to-date information on river conditions and safety precautions.
Abundant wildlife
All along the Schuylkill River, whether you’re hiking, paddling or wading out with your flyrod, you’ll have the opportunity to witness some of NEPA’s vibrant wildlife. Bring a pair of binoculars and spy hundreds of bird species. Explore the water’s edge for aquatic insects, reptiles and amphibians. And keep your eyes peeled for the occasional deer, fox or black bear among other mammals. The dense and rocky mountainous terrain surrounding the region also draws in impressive birds of prey like bald eagles, hawks and owls. Even with just a quick jaunt along the river trail, you’re bound to see some kind of critters, so keep the camera handy.
Ready to Explore?
The Schuylkill River runs through the heart of Schuylkill County touching many towns and cities along the way. The wild, scenic river offers plenty of opportunity for recreation like fishing for trout and bass, hiking, kayaking and canoeing and wildlife spotting. Read on to find out how you can discover, explore and enjoy the Schuylkill River in your area!
Schuylkill County
River Access Boat Launches & Parks
In NEPA, the Schuylkill River flows through Schuylkill County for roughly 35 miles. The river starts just southwest of Tamaqua and zig zags through Pottsville turning southeast through Schuylkill Haven and Port Clinton before crossing into Berks County on its way to Philadelphia. Fishing, kayaking, canoeing and hiking remain the popular activities along this stretch of the Schuylkill River.
Parks
Schuylkill River Trail
Schuylkill Haven Island Park
Schuylkill Valley Heritage Trail
Public Access/Kayak & Canoe Launch
Schuylkill River Water Trail – Auburn Landing
2033 Market St.
Auburn, PA 17922
Port Clinton Park
Schuylkill St.
Port Clinton, PA 19549
Schuylkill River Trail Boat Launch
197 Dock St.
Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
Taking Care of NEPA's Rivers
Our rivers in Northeastern Pennsylvania provide countless opportunities for recreation, sightseeing and wildlife watching. They are the heart of the region’s bountiful ecosystem, sustaining life for humans and animals alike. And it’s important for all of us to take reasonable measures to protect them. Always practice the leave no trace principle and carry out what you carry in.
Schuylkill River – FAQ
- The Schuylkill River flows for a total of 135 miles from just outside of Pottsville due southeast to the Delaware River in Philadelphia.
- The river’s name, “Schuylkill” comes from the Dutch language and translates to “hidden stream.”
- In the 19th century, as industrialization picked up in Pennsylvania, the Schuylkill Navigation System utilized the river and a series of dams and canals to transport coal, timber and other goods downriver and on to major east coast cities.
- The Schuylkill River has undergone an extensive and successful clean-up effort dating back to the 1950s to restore water quality and promote the return of wildlife.
- In 1978, the Schuylkill River was designated as the first Pennsylvania Scenic River.
Featured image (top): Schuylkill Haven Island Park, Schuylkill Haven, PA.
