Switchback Trail

In the 1800's, this trail was a railroad used for transporting anthracite coal from the mines near Summit Hill down to the coal chutes on the Lehigh River. Known as a gravity railroad, it transported the train cars filled with coal down the mountain powered by gravity alone.

Eventually, it began carrying thrill-seekers down the 9 mile route. Over the years, this became a popular tourist attraction, and led to the development of the modern day roller coaster.

The route is mostly double track, with some road crossings along the way. If you ride the trail, be sure to take the Mt Pisgah trail up to the top, where you will have a nice view of the Lehigh Gorge and River. Be aware that some sections of the trail are not marked, especially at road crossings.