Put In

Swatara Creek at this Tremont Township put-in is a medium-sized river (Stream Order 5) with significant whitewater characteristics. The creek drops 1,221 feet over its 73-mile length, creating an average gradient of 16.7 feet per mile, which indicates consistent rapids and fast-moving water. With an average flow of 1,001 cubic feet per second and velocities around 2.67 feet per second, this is a dynamic waterway that requires paddlers with whitewater experience and good boat control skills. The drainage area of 571 square miles means water levels can be affected by regional rainfall and seasonal conditions.

This put-in location is positioned in the upper-middle section of Swatara Creek, about 325 miles upstream from the river mouth. Paddlers launching here will experience flowing water with the steep gradient typical of northeastern Pennsylvania creek systems. The terrain transitions from higher elevations (457 meters upstream) to lower elevations downstream, so water conditions may vary based on recent precipitation and the time of year. Swatara Creek's landscape includes both wooded areas and developed sections through Schuylkill County communities.