Trail Overview
Swale Trail is a 7.8-mile point-to-point trail that branches off FS 21 before reconnecting later along the route. Starting from the northeast end near Dutch Creek Guard Station, the trail climbs out of the valley where it meets Swale Creek and follows the creek for 0.75 miles, after which the trail winds through the woods for another 4.8 miles before the intersection with FS 21. A single-lane road over gravel and dirt, Swale Trail features steep, rutted, and muddy sections. Swale Trail has two seasonal closures for motorized vehicles (except snowmobiles): May 1st through June 30th and August 15th through November 30th.
Difficulty
With ruts, mud puddles, and steep sections, low clearance and 2WD vehicles should take caution on this trail. Weather conditions such as rain and snow can increase the difficulty. A chainsaw or other equipment for removing fallen trees is highly recommended.