The Schuylkill River is usually associated with Reading or Philadelphia, but its story begins much farther north in the Coal Region.

A river shaped by industry

For generations, the river carried the environmental impact of mining and industry from the upper watershed downstream.

Transportation followed the river

The Schuylkill River corridor helped shape the route of canals and railroads that moved anthracite toward Reading and Philadelphia.

From industrial artery to recreation corridor

Today, the broader Schuylkill River watershed is also tied to trails, paddling, conservation and heritage tourism.

That makes the river a perfect symbol of the county itself: a natural feature heavily changed by industry, now being rediscovered for recreation and history.

Sources: Schuylkill River Greenways and Reading Railroad historical resources.