Hiking at Wolf Swamp in Pennsylvania

It would be easy to ignore Pennsylvania's State Game Lands 38 in favor of neighboring Big Pocono State Park. Many hikers do. But passing over the Game Lands means missing out on Wolf Swamp, Deep Lake and one of the region's most striking landscapes. Despite having a name that evokes a marshy, foreboding wilderness, Wolf Swamp is actually a pristine glacial lake surrounded by 5,000 acres of lush forest and rolling mountain slopes.

  1. Finding The Trail

    • The trailhead that provides access to Wolf Swamp is just inside the eastern entrance to State Game Lands 38 on Camelback Road. A parking area is available, and the trail begins as a dirt road that heads off in a western direction from the parking lot. A metal gate marks the beginning of the trail. State Game Lands 38 is about 20 minutes northwest of Stroudsburg and 45 minutes south of Scranton.

    The Hike to Wolf Swamp

    • About half a mile from the starting point, a large rock alongside the trail reads "Wolf Swamp & Deep Lake," letting you know you're on the right track. The trail travels in a loop, covering a total of 4.3 miles over mostly easy to moderate terrain, though there are a few rocky sections, steep climbs and descents, particularly towards the end. You'll pass a few radio towers and power lines along the way, but the scenery for the most part consists of quiet woodlands. The trail itself shifts between dirt road, grassy path, old railroad grade and power line right-of-way. Wolf Swamp itself is 1.2 miles from the starting point.

    The Return Journey

    • Wolf Swamp provides a perfect place to rest, enjoy the view and snap a few pictures of the quiet lake surrounded by trees. Resuming your hike, bear right at the Y-intersection just past Wolf Swamp and continue on to Deep Lake. This second lake is smaller than Wolf Swamp, but its still waters and near-perfect circular shape create a striking view. You'll pass four additional Y-intersections and trail junctions; bear right at each one to return to the trailhead. After 4.2 miles, the trail will meet back up with the dirt road you started on. Make a left to walk the final 0.1 mile back to the parking lot.

    Planning Ahead

    • The weather around Wolf Swamp can be hot and humid in summer, so bring plenty of water. No potable water sources exist in State Game Lands 38. The terrain is challenging at times, making stamina and durable footwear essential. State Game Lands in Pennsylvania are open to hunting during appropriate seasons, so exercise caution and wear blaze orange if you plan on visiting during fall or winter. Dogs are allowed on the trails, but they must be leashed at all times, and it's probably best to leave them at home if you visit during hunting season. State Game Lands 38 is open year-round free of charge, and no passes or permits are required for hiking.