By marc.metcalfe on July 27, 2010
Yesterday, 07.26.2010, I went online to get the trail map and directions to the Armstrong Trail. I followed the directions to Aladdin road but saw no signage regarding the trail. There were large stacks of steel rails, as if a new railroad was to be built and there was a railbed that was being widened, graded and cleared of trees and other large foliage. I asked a local resident where the rails-to-trails trail was and he pointed in the direction of the construction work going on. He said someone was actually building a railroad, like a short scenic railroad.
I set out on the railbed in an effort to see how far I could go or if I could anywhere at all. I was able to navigate 7.5 miles up the trail and could go no farther because of the heavy construction that was underway. Beyond that, the trail was impassable, even with a mountain bike. Along that 7.5 mile ride I encountered several heavy construction vehicles laying slag, chipping trees, and grading. The riding was very difficult, very bumpy, and, at times, impossible requiring me to walk the bike for varying distances. You could see sharp bits of metal and glass in the material they were laying down on the railbed. I did, in fact, get a flat on my return, fortunately only a quarter mile from my car.
I wanted to be sure rails-to-trails is aware of whatever is happening to this segment of the Armstrong Trail. I don't know how long a segment of the trail is under construction and if this part of the trail will be available in the future as a bike trail. It would probably be a good idea to update the information on the TrailLink.com website to inform riders that they should pick up the trail beyond where the construction is taking place. I drove 65 miles to get to this trail and the trail wasn't a lot of fun :(
Sincerely,
Marc Metcalfe
marc.metcalfe@gmail.com
By like2bike on August 30, 2009
We rode from Ford City to Templeton and about 95% of it is great! There are some areas where you ride in a quiet residential area on the streets with little traffic. Can't wait to try some other area trails.
By like2bike on August 30, 2009
We rode from Ford City to Templeton and found the majority of the trail to be in great condition. Although in some parts you do ride on streets, it is in small towns and not a lot of traffic. Scenic areas and friendly people along the way. We are anxious to try other areas on this trail!