Rail-Trail
State: PA Length: 32 miles Surface: Asphalt
With a wide, paved pathway and adjacent equestrian trail running through lush woodland and riverside terrain, the Allegheny River Trail (ART) has something to offer every trail enthusiast. Following a segment of the Allegheny River that is part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, the 32-mile trail extends south from the Samuel Justus Recreation Trail in Franklin, to a point south of where the Allegheny and Clarion rivers meet in Brandon south of Foxburg. The Scrubgrass Generating Company acquired the rail corridor after the Allegheny Valley Railroad stopped using it in 1984. Scrubgrass Generating donated the property to the nonprofit Allegheny Valley Trails Association, which is building an extensive rail-trail system in northwestern Pennsylvania. The trailhead begins 5 miles downriver from the Franklin Belmar railroad bridge. Built in 1907 the picturesque bridge offers a spectacular view of the river and wildlife. At the Belmar bridge, the trail connects with the 8-mile, paved Sandy Creek Trail, which runs east to the village of Van. Eventually it will connect with the Clarion Highlands Trail to offer 46 miles of trail.
State: PA Length: 6.45 miles Surface: Asphalt
A 6.45-mile rail-with trail is planned as part of the Allegheny Riverfront Green Boulevard Project, a multi-modal transportation corridor that will connect Pittsburgh neighborhoods along the Allegheny River. The Green Boulevard will create and conserve green space along the river, increase walking and bicycling, and reduce auto congestion along Butler Street and Penn Avenue.
State: PA Length: 0.80 miles Surface: Asphalt, Ballast, Dirt
One of Pennsylvania's rail-with-trails, where trains and trail users share a corridor, the Arboretum Trail is a lovely landscaped trail through downtown Oakmont. The rail corridor has a dramatic history of use-and disuse. Between 1853 and 1856, the Allegheny Valley Railroad built a line that ran from Pittsburgh to Kittanning. In 1903, the Pennsylvania Railroad opened its Brilliant Cutoff, linking the Allegheny line with other sections of Kittanning. Declining rail traffic in the 1960s led then-owner Conrail to close one of the two tracks in the corridor. Then in 1995, the corridor was sold back to the Allegheny Valley Railroad, which reopened the rail line and sold the adjacent land for trail use. The Garden Club of Oakmont raised $3 million for trail construction, landscaping, corridor renovation, and long-term maintenance of the plantings.
State: PA Length: 34.80 miles Surface: Asphalt, Grass
NOTE: Kiski-Junction Railroad is now constructing an active rail line between miles 30 and 38. This section is no longer open to the public. Tracing the course of the scenic Allegheny River, the Armstrong Trail varies between rough terrain and smooth asphalt surfaces to accommodate cyclists, pedestrians, inline skaters and equestrians in the warmer months. There are plenty of opportunities to take photographs of the lazy Allegheny River, and even try your luck catching fish. Cross-country skiers can enjoy the trail in winter. The Armstrong Trail runs along the former Allegheny Valley Railroad. The railroad, chartered in 1837 and opened in 1855, served as a passenger and freight rail line and eventually extended from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Buffalo, New York. The rail line ended passenger operations in 1941 and was purchased by the Allegheny Valley Land Trust in 1992 for conversion to the existing trail. The winding trail extends almost 35 miles, from Catfish on the north end southward to Schenley. The uppermost segment, north of Templeton, features rough terrain, best suited for mountain biking and hiking. You may encounter the occasional ATV riders or equestrians here, too. Relics of the original rail line, including a gigantic concrete coal elevator used to replenish the engine's coal supplies as well as fill freight cars, can be seen along this part of the trail. Between Templeton and Rosston, the trail alternates between asphalt path and quiet, on-road sections. The town of Kittanning, just south of the trail midpoint, makes for a nice rest stop, with local shops and eateries not far off the trail. Several locks, managed by the Army Corps of Engineers are visible along the trail; you may be lucky enough to see a boat or barge passing through one. The best access points north of Kittanning are at Buttermilk Falls and in Templeton. The parking area at Buttermilk Falls also provides access to the Beaver River Trail Rail-Trail State: PA Length: 1 miles Surface: Asphalt Situated in downtown Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, the asphalt trail runs through a park setting on the former Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad close to the Beaver River and ending near the rugby fields at the Geneva College Campus. The trail is an important connector to future regional networks between Pittsburgh and Cleveland.
State: PA Length: 1 miles Surface: Asphalt
Situated in downtown Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, the asphalt trail runs through a park setting on the former Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad close to the Beaver River and ending near the rugby fields at the Geneva College Campus. The trail is an important connector to future regional networks between Pittsburgh and Cleveland.
State: WV Length: 6.70 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Brooke Pioneer Trail follows the east bank of the Ohio River between Wellsburg and the Brooke–Ohio County line at Short Creek. Here the Brooke Pioneer Trail continues into Ohio County as the Wheeling Heritage Trails. Both trails are paved and provide a total of 18 miles of scenic hiking or biking along the river between the two cities they connect. You'll find interpretive signs along the way that describe the railroad history—the Panhandle Railroad—of this area. The trail parallels State Route 2 and is sandwiched between the road the river.
State: PA Length: 1 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
One mile of the proposed 4 mile Brown's Run Trail is currently open near Masontown in German Township, Fayette County, Pa. The crushed stone path includes interpretuve signage and has a connection to a local restaurant housed in an 18th century historic property. Parking is available at the Lardin Hill restaurant as well as along State Route 21.
State: PA Length: 19.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone, Dirt
Built in 1871 to transport the region's high-quality limestone to support Pittsburgh's growing steel industry, the Butler-Freeport line was the first railroad in the county. After a two-day celebration of the opening, the railroad conducted a mock funeral for the stagecoach that ran between the two towns. A branch of the Western Pennsylvania Railroad, the line became part of the Pennsylvania Railroad system in 1903 before closing. The Butler–Freeport Community Trail on the corridor, open since 1989, is nestled in the scenic wooded valley that follows Little Buffalo Creek to Buffalo Creek and on to the Allegheny River at Freeport. About an hour northeast of the City of Pittsburgh, the trail is flat and easy to ride. Heading south from Butler, you'll be on a slight incline. The trail surface changes from crushed stone to dirt to asphalt. Remains of old stone quarries and brick kilns can be seen in the southern section of the trail. As you head north from Cabot, the results of late 1800 development are still visible. The former Saxon City Hotel, built in 1871, remains as does an old still-active lumberyard. From April to October you can see an abundance of wildflowers, including trillium, Turk's cap lily, tall bellflower and butterfly weed. The trail is a popular recreation venue. Visitors come to enjoy bird watching and fishing, and the annual fall Buffalo Creek Half-Marathon always attracts a crowd. Before leaving Freeport, stop by the Freeport Area Historical Society office, where you'll find a wealth of information on the cultural and industrial history of the region. The Butler–Freeport Trail Council maintains a passport-oriented historic geocache adventure, with up to 20 caches along the trail. Check their website for details.
State: PA Length: 6 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The scenic Coal & Coke Trail connects the communities of Mount Pleasant and Scottdale in Westmoreland County and offers many glimpses of the picturesque nature and local communities of Westmoreland County. The 6-mile trail is built on the old Pennsylvania Railroad corridor, and sections parallel the active Southwest PA line toward Bridgeport. In the early 1900s the old railroad corridor was used to transport coal and coke from the many coal mining companies in the county. The trail finally opened in 2007 after eight years of planning and development. Starting at Willows Park in Mount Pleasant, the trail runs through beautiful scenic wooded areas to the town of Bridgeport. Beyond Bridgeport, the trail quickly dips into woodlands again and is lined with trees to Hammondville and Iron Bridge. From here the trail runs under US 119 and continues along the old Pennsylvania Railroad corridor to Mildred Street in North Scottdale. You'll follow Mildred Street for five blocks to Kendi Park. You can stop here or take a sharp left after Kendi Park and follow the Coal & Coke Trail for 0.25 mile to its junction with the scenic 1-mile-long Jacob's Creek Multi-Use Trail that runs west toward Scottdale.
State: PA Length: 1.27 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The short but scenic Cowanshannock Trail is a great pathway for hikers, walkers, and bikers to use to link to the larger Armstrong Trail. The Cowanshannock is 1.27 miles long, and plans are to extend it as much as four miles. The trail follows the Cowanshannock Creek on an abandoned Pennsylvania Railroad Company corridor. In the early part of the 20th century, the trail corridor was used to haul coal mined by the Kittaning Iron and Steel Manufacturing Company as well as brick made by the Cowanshannock Brick and Manufacturing Company and the Willard Brick Company. The trail begins at the Bernard Snyder Picnic Area, a beautifully landscaped area with views of the Allegheny River. About halfway into the trail you will come to a beautiful waterfall on the right side of the trail. A pretty wooden bridge crosses the creek here. The trail ends at a cul-de-sac on the banks of the creek.
State: PA Length: 7.75 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Trail users on this inviting corridor follow the path of an old Southern Pennsylvania Railroad line, in some places traveling alongside unused tracks (not to be confused with the newer Southwest Pennsylvania Railroad, which operates along 66 miles of track through here). Riding the trail makes for a nice afternoon outing, combining pleasant scenery and historical attractions The Five Star Trail runs nearly 8 miles through Westmoreland Country, extending south from Greensburg to Youngwood and then eastward to Armbrust. The Westmoreland County Industrial Development Corp. purchased the trail corridor from Conrail in 1995. The Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation Department is a partner in this project, along with the municipalities of Greensburg, South Greensburg, Southwest Greensburg, Youngwood and Hempfield. The trail's name honors these fives municipalities. PA Cleanways keeps the trail clean Park at Lynch Field, a sports complex in Greensburg. The trail branches off to the east. Before embarking on this last 2-mile section, you may wish to stop in the Youngblood Trail Station, a museum focused on local railroad history. You will cross the campus of Westmoreland County Community College, along with a little park that features a pool, a playground and a few war relics, including an Apache helicopter At the south end, the trail splits at Depot Street. The short, 1.5-mile stretch is paved and makes for a scenic walk or ride. Along the main trail, you'll see old rail cars and a converted caboose, once used as a restaurant.
State: PA Length: 36.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
Despite its eerie name, there's nothing scary about the Ghost Town Trail. The trail is named for the numerous towns that were served by the Ebensburg & Blacklick Railroad, as well as the Cambria & Indiana Railroad. It winds through scenic Blacklick Creek watershed, from Ebensburg to Grafton, passing historical artifacts and offering opportunities to see a variety of wildlife. The trail, originally established in 1991, is a designated National Recreation Trail If you hit the trail early enough, you're likely to encounter deer and more than a few chipmunks. Once the sun gets high, watch out for the occasional snake sunning itself on the warm pathway. A few interpretive signs along sections of the trail provide information about the mining towns, as well as some of the historical features. Mining slag and old railroad ties can be found at numerous points along the trail. Just west of Vintondale, you come to Eliza Furnace, on the National Register of Historic Places and one of Pennsylvania's best preserved iron blast furnaces. East of Saylor Park, the trail passes a salvage yard of discarded rail cars. They make for a pleasant surprise, as the rusted hulks seem to bloom among the trees. In 2009 two beautiful bridges were installed to cross the Blacklick Creek west of Dilltown, one of the most popular trailheads along the route Some portions run though game lands—wear orange during hunting season. Bring your camera along to capture the natural beauty and historical features that you'll encounter during your visit. At the west end of the trail in Saylor Park, follow signs to connect to the Hoodlebug Trail
State: MD, PA Length: 141 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Now the longest rail-trail east of the Mississippi River, the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage spans two states in its course along great rivers and across mountain passes. Running from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cumberland, Maryland, the Great Allegheny Passage traces the paths of railroads that helped build America. In 2010 agreements were made final for the last mile of trail leading into Pittsburgh to be developed. After connecting with the Southside Trail (aka Three Rivers Heritage Trail), the Great Allegheny Passage Trail heads south through McKeesport along the banks of the Youghiogheny River, following the route of the Pittsburgh, McKeesport and Youghiogheny Railroad Built in 1883, the railroad carried coal and coke from the rich Connellsville District to the Pittsburgh steel mills. Nicknamed the P-Mickey for its initials, P. McK. & Y., it merged with the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad. The freight and coal traffic that sustained the branch dried up by the mid-1980s, and the line fell into disuse in 1990 As you move upstream along the riverside trail, you pass lush green hillsides and once booming industrial towns. The first 40 miles of trail go through the Pennsylvania towns of Boston, West Newton and Dawson. Trailside B&Bs, bike shops and cafes line the trail in these towns, making them great resting places At mile 43 the trail reaches the historic boom-town of Connellsville. This self-proclaimed "trail town" offers wonderful parks, restaurants and cafes. The industrial revolution is still alive in this southwestern Pennsylvania town For the next 17 miles the trail follows the Youghiogheny River through remote Pennsylvania hill country. Take refuge under the dense canopy of the hardwood forest on the river's edge. Before reaching quaint Ohiopyle, you enter the state park with the same name and cross two impressive trestles. The town is a home base
State: PA Length: 3.50 miles Surface: Dirt, Grass, Gravel
Tracing a section of the abandoned Rural Valley Railroad corridor the Great Shamokin Path parallels the Cowanshannock Creek for 3.5 miles. The eastern part of the trail, which is surfaced primarily with dirt and gravel, is most suitable for biking and jogging. The western section is mostly grass. Much of the trail features a lovely tree canopy that provides relief on a hot summer's day. Wildlife can be seen along much of the trail, especially in the early morning, but watch out for the spiderwebs! The trail ends at the water treatment plant after crossing the Cowanshannock Creek.
State: PA Length: 5.20 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
About 60 miles south of Pittsburgh, the beautiful Greene River Trail parallels the Monongahela River as it winds through the coal mining region of Greene County. Conrail originally used the rail corridor until the Greene County Department of Recreation transformed the corridor into a striking nature trail, opened in 2001. Driving through the river valley to the trail, you can glimpse several large coal mining operations just over the east ridge of the river. Remnants of older mine operations that processed and loaded coal onto railroad cars and river barges can still be seen along the trail. It's easy to imagine the days of old when barges ran up and down the Monongahela River to transport coal to the Ohio and Allegheny rivers in Pittsburgh. The 5.2-mile trail starts in Millsboro at the Green Cove Yacht Club trailhead. Once on the trail you follow Ten Mile Creek for less than a mile to where it flows into the Monongahela River. From there, the trail runs south along the river through a stretch of peaceful, scenic woodlands. The smooth trail surface is well maintained, and the trail is enclosed by rustic wood fencing along much of the route. You'll encounter many sweeping views of the mighty Monongahela River and glimpses of the beautiful nature and peaceful surroundings of Greene County. At about mile 3, you enter the town of Rices Landing. As you enter the township, you pass W. A. Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop, a restored working 19th-century machine shop open to the public during the summer. Rices Landing, directly on the riverbank, offers a few local amenities to take a break for refreshments or a small bite to eat. You can also to begin your ride from the Rices Landing trailhead. After Rices Landing the trail continues to wind along the Monongahela River for another 2 miles until you reach the endpoint along Crucible Road in Crucible. The trail ends abruptly in Crucible but will eventually extend another 9 miles to Nemacolin.
State: PA Length: 10.50 miles Surface: Gravel
Any trail with a name like "Hoodlebug" deserves a visit. The 10-mile trail follows the path of the 1856-era Indiana Branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad, which ran from Blairsville north to the town of Indiana. "Hoodlebug" was the local nickname for the self-propelled passenger coach that traveled on the line until 1940. The trail corridor has played an important role in the region for many years: as part of an extensive network of Native American trails, as a Pennsylvania Railroad branch line and now as a pedestrian and bicycle trail used for both recreation and commuting by local residents and visitors to the area. Today the trail, surfaced in part with highway millings provided by a partnership between Indiana County Parks and District 10 of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, also provides transportation options for commuters and university students and recreational opportunities along a historic corridor. A dense forest of mixed deciduous and conifer trees lines most of the trail and provides a fine canopy on hot summer days. In contrast, the southern half of the trail passes rural and suburban homes along the US 119 corridor and follows a sound barrier wall. South of Homer City, as the trail crosses into Cambria County for its last mile, it parallels Two Lick Creek and becomes more rural. Lengthened by 3 miles in 2005 as part of the Highway 119 improvement project, in 2010 the Hoodlebug Trail was connected to the nearby Ghost Town Trail in Black Lick, Pennsylvania, forming a completed route of 46 miles between Indiana and Ebensburg. From Black Lick west to Blairsville a signed 8-mile on-road route connects to the West Penn Trail, a 16-mile rail-trail that runs from Blairsville to Saltsburg. A detailed brochure of the three trails is available from Indiana County Parks. NOTE: The north
State: PA Length: 8 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Open since 1989, the creek-side Indian Creek Valley Trail traces the route of the Indian creek Valley Railraod (ICVRR). Just north of Indian Head, you will come to a cluster of acid mine drainage remediation ponds, designed to filter pollutants and sediment from water that passes through the old mines. About midway along the way there are a number of recreational areas for picnicking and other outdoor activities. At about mile 4 the trail reaches the Melcroft Trestle, a pedestrian bridge that leads to a nearby park with picnic tables and restrooms. The trail looks to end at a street crossing in Indian Head. There is another small park here, along with a small general store. If you wish to continue on the trail, cross the street and follow the gravel road on the other side. In about a mile you will come to another segment of the trail; it will be on your right as you are heading south.
State: PA Length: 0.50 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The Kiski River Trail, built on the former M-Line Railroad bed, begins in downtown Apollo and follows the scenic Kiskiminetas River (called "Kiski" locally) for a half-mile. The nearly level trail is surfaced with fine crushed limestone and stops just short of the popular Roaring Run Recreation Area. An on-road connection can be made to the 5-mile Roaring Run Trail by continuing south another 200 yards on Kiski Avenue, then three-tenths of a mile on Canal Road to the trailhead.
State: PA Length: 0 miles Surface:
A Feasibility Study to find out what is involved to create a trail on the 69.9 mile corridor of the former Knox & Kane Railroad is currently underway in the four county region.
State: PA Length: 1 miles Surface: Gravel
The first 0.5 mile of the Ligonier Valley Trail and Bikeway is now complete, linking the town's popular attractions: Fort Ligonier from the days of George Washington and the French and Indian War, the historic Compass Inn for stagecoach travelers, the new Ligonier Valley Railroad Museum and the Southern Alleghenies Art Museum. In Ligonier Borough the trail offers a safe route for pedestrians and cyclists to access restaurants and shops in the beautiful town. Farther afield the trail leads bikers and hikers into the countryside of Ligonier Township. The trail follows what was once the Lincoln Highway, built for early motorists, and extends to a nature trail at the Ligonier Township Municipal Center. Part of the trail is complete and the rest of the route will be finished according to an approved master plan. When finished, the Ligonier Valley Trail and Bikeway will be one of the top trail attractions in the Laurel Highlands and will eventually extend to Idlewild Park, west of Ligonier.
State: OH Length: 10 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Little Beaver Creek Greenway Trail runs parallel to the Middle Fork of the Little Beaver Creek and has many beautiful and interesting features, including glacial outwashes, upland fields, mature ravine woodlots and wetland wildlife habitats. Remnants of the industrial past also dot the trail with the remains of lime kilns, pig iron furnaces, coal mines and coke ovens. The trail features a covered bridge and a connection to the Sandy Beaver Canal Towpath. As a segment of the Great Ohio Lake to River Greenway, the Little Beaver Creek Greenway is a part of the trail system that begins in Ashtabula County and continues through Trumbull, Mahoning and Columbiana counties. When complete, the Great Ohio Lake to River Greenway will be more than 100 miles long.
State: PA Length: 23 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
From www.dcnr.state.pa.us: The 2,856-acre Maurice K. Goddard State Park features the 1,860-acre Lake Wilhelm, which is very popular with anglers. Many recreational activities attract visitors in all seasons. The large lake, abundant wetlands, old fields and mature forests provide a diversity of habitats for wildlife, especially waterfowl and eagles and ospreys. Biking in Maurice K. Goddard State Park: A nine mile paved bicycle trail follows the shoreline from Boat Launch 4 to the Marina and continues to Dugan's Run. This trail is not a loop. It can be accessed from Launch 4, Marina, Launch 2, Launch 1, Dam and Dugan's Run. The trail is open to two-way bicycle traffic, hiking, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Stay to the right while bike riding. Please park bicycles off of the trail to avoid obstructing traffic. Hiking in Maurice K. Goddard State Park: There are 14 miles of hiking trails in the park, including the Multi-use Trail, which is a 12 mile loop, consisting of paved trail and roadway. The main parking area for this trail is on Lake Wilhelm Road between the bridge and the park office. This scenic trail is composed of two trails. The Wilhelm Trail is on the North Shore and hiking, biking and snowmobiling is permitted. This section of trail contains short, steep runs that may be difficult to climb for some bikers. The north shore has many vistas, which overlook the lake. The Cross-Country Ski Trail in on the South Shore and cross-country skiing, hiking and biking is permitted. The south shore of the lake has areas of trail that share the road with motor vehicles. The trail runs from the dam to Lake Wilhelm Road. To complete the loop, one must simply utilize Lake Wilhelm Road to connect the south and north portions of the trail. Falling Run Nature Trail is a 0.7-mile loop trail. This self-g
State: WV Length: 6 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Morgantown is known as the home of West Virginia University, the inspiration for a Joni Mitchell song and the birthplace of Don Knotts. And it's also known for its wonderful trails: the Mon River Rail-Trail System. The nexus of this 45-mile trail system is Hazel Ruby McQuain Park in downtown Morgantown. Located adjacent to a restored railway station, the park is a vibrant hub of local activity, with a steady stream of walkers, runners, skaters and cyclists. The rail-trail that runs through the park-stretching 6.5 miles to the north and 19.5 miles to the south-hugs the Monongahela River, one of a few American rivers that flows north. The "Mon" eventually arrives in Pittsburgh, where it joins the Allegheny River to form the Ohio River. This system of trails, which follows a former CSX rail line, comprises four segments, each with their own name. The Mon River Trail North has a crushed-stone surface and begins in Star City where the Mons River Rail-Trail Caperton section ends. The trail travels along the river for 6 miles to the Pennsylvania state line, where it connects to trails in Port Marion.
State: PA Length: 55.60 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Montour Trail follows a portion of the old Montour Railroad, which was built between 1877 and 1914 to link the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad with the region's many coal mines. Forming a semi-circle around Pittsburgh, the Montour Railroad also connected other railroads, including the Pennsylvania, the Pittsburgh & West Virginia, the Baltimore & Ohio, and the Union. Both the trail and the railroad are named for the creek that runs alongside; you'll follow the waterway for the trail's first 8 miles beginning in Coraopolis. Views will primarily be of leafy green neighborhoods sprinkled with wildflowers. Highlights of the trip include Enlow Tunnel, which stretches 500 feet, in Findlay Township and the impressive McDonald Trestle, spanning more than 900 feet, on the outskirts of McDonald. Continuing south of McDonald, the trail offers beautiful rural landscapes. At the eastern end of the trail, you'll find the paved Arrowhead Trail in Peters Township. This section opened in 1985 and is now part of the Montour Trail. The township planted 500 trees along the 4-mile route, which passes among a wooded corridor in suburbia, linking neighborhoods with parks. Most of the Montour Trail is crushed limestone, but note that there are three short on-road sections clustered near this eastern end of the trail.
State: PA Length: 6.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Airport Connector is a spur off the 48-mile Montour Trail that circles the western outskirts of Pittsburgh. The 6-mile paved pathway begins just off the extended-term parking lot on the western end of the Pittsburgh International Airport. Follow the signs and pavement markings through the lot to reach the trail.
State: PA Length: 7 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
Moraine State Park features a seven mile bike trail, which follows along the North Shore. This trail was completed in the Summer of 2006. The trail can be found in the Northeast section of the park on the North Shore of the park. Along the way is beautiful scenery, especially during the Fall as there are several trees nearby Lake Arthur. At some points of the trail, there is relatively short downgrades and curves as this is not a rail-trail. The trail surface is still good for biking, as it is paved with asphalt for 7 miles. There's a half mile of crushed stone towards the western end of the Trail. There is a bike rental building in the Northwest corner of the park at the trailhead.
The Harmony Trail in the North Hills is a work in progress, managed by volunteers with the Rachel Carson Trails Conservancy. As of August 2011, about 1 mile of a proposed 4.3 miles of abandoned rail corridor have been completed. The conservancy is focusing its efforts on developing the corridor between Ingomar and Warrendale. The rail line was originally an interurban trolley line that ran between Pittsburgh, Evans City, Butler and New Castle from 1908 to 1931. Today, the old track follows a wooded corridor parallel to Route 19.
The Ohio River Trail Council (ORTC) is a non-profit, volunteer-led corporation whose mission is to establish, promote, protect and preserve a multi-use trail, the Ohio River Trail (ORT), along the Ohio River and it's tributaries from the Columbiana Greenway Trail, near East Liverpool, OH and Chester, WV to the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) via the Montour Trail in Moon Township, Pa, and the Three Rivers Heritage Trail in Pittsburgh, Pa.
State: PA Length: 36 miles Surface: Asphalt
Forbes State Forest and the adjacent state parks (Linn Run, Laurel Mountain, and Laurel Ridge) maintain the PWS Trail System, a network of snowmobile trails and forest service roads though the second-growth forest along Laurel Hill. Much of this network serves as a mountain biking system the rest of the year. Bicycling is allowed only on the designated trails (and on roads open to automobiles). Bikes are prohibited on the yellow-blazed Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. The rail-trail segment of the system occupies the corridor of the old Pittsburgh, Westmoreland and Somerset railroad, which operated from 1899 until 1916. The abandoned corridor was unused until the trail opened in 1992.
State: PA, WV Length: 26.20 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The Panhandle Trail is another jewel in the Pittsburgh metro area trail system. A Conrail line, known as the Panhandle Railroad, once connected Pittsburgh to Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis on this route. The rail corridor has been transformed into a multi-use, non-motorized trail stretching nearly 27 miles, from Weirton, West Virginia, to Carnegie, Pennsylvania. Today, the wide trail is open to pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians, with many easy access points along the way. Locals have created colorful sculptures out of recycled materials, such as handcrafted birdhouses, and colorful old shoes, to enhance the trail. You never know what art you may come across. Spring and summer, when flowering shrubs and wildflowers dress up various landscaped trailheads and access points, are great times to bike the Panhandle. Between June and October, the Collier Friends of the Panhandle Trail sponsors several annual events on the trail. The friends group also maintains the trail from Walkers Mill to Greg Station. The Panhandle Trail connects to the Montour Trail between the village of Primrose and town of McDonald and will eventually link to Washington, D.C., via the Great Allegheny Passage. Recognized as a valuable resource and landmark for residents, the Panhandle Trail was the 100th successful rail-trail project in Pennsylvania. Officials from Washington and Alleghany counties, the West Virginia Rail Authority, PennDot, the U.S. Surface Transportation Board, the Pennsylvania Department of National Resources and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission continue to work to preserve the historic corridor and develop the trail.
State: PA Length: 13 miles Surface: Ballast, Crushed Stone
The Redbank Trail is one of Pennsylvania's newest rail-trails. It is currently only partially open with thirteen discontinuous miles of graded and rolled surface between the Alcola Cemetery in Fairmount City, Redbank Township east to Baxter out of the entire 51 mile corridor. The Redbank Valley Trail Association intends to continue making improvements, including the addition of crushed limestone as funds become available. They have three tunnels and a mere 27 bridges to upgrade! For now the corridor remains primarily a hiking and cross-country ski trail. Extreme caution must be used at stream crossings as most bridges are not open for passage. A feasibility/planning study is now underway.
State: PA Length: 5 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The out-and-back Roaring Run is the third incarnation of this pathway. First to occupy the waterfront site was the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal towpath, which operated between 1825 and 1850. The Apollo Industrial Track was eventually built on the unused towpath, and the trains carried coal from the Leechburg Coal mining station. Kovolchick Salvage Company of Indiana, PA, donated the right-of-way to Roaring Run Watershed Association, a group formed in 1982 to help preserve this historic area and clean up pollution from former mines. The group opened the trail in 1991. Beginning at the parking area on Canal Road, Roaring Run parallels the Kiskiminetas River to the southeast. At mile 1.5, you can see the stone remains of canal Lock No. 15. A 16-foot-high dam once stood here; it was destroyed by a flood in 1866, but during low water some remnants are visible. About midway down the trail, you'll come to the Rock Furnace Trail, which heads north 1.5 miles to Brownstown Road. The trail is in excellent condition and well maintained as it meanders next to the beautiful Kiski River. It will eventually connect to the West Penn Trail 2 miles upriver, creating a trail system from Ebensburg to Apollo.
State: PA Length: 1.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The 1.5-mile Rock Furnace Trail is a scenic path in Roaring Run Recreation Area. The trail follows Roaring Run Creek from its confluence at the Kiski River to a small parking area off Brownstown Road. The steep, hilly trail makes for a scenic outing, taking in many small waterfalls along the creek. During spring, look for wildflowers in bloom, especially trillium that covers the stream valley hillsides. The trail was built along a former gas well access road, and the highlight of the route is a 72-foot cable bridge built by volunteers to cross the creek. You'll also see the stonework remains of the Biddle Iron Furnace (a.k.a. the "Rock Furnace") near another landmark—"Camel Rock," as it's locally known. The furnace operated during the era of canal transport, from 1825 to 1850. At the southern end of the Rock Furnace Trail, by the canal, you can pick up the Roaring Run Rail Trail.
State: PA Length: 0.75 miles Surface: Asphalt
State: PA Length: 2.10 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The Sheepskin Trail is a lovely rural trail located in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. The Trail currently connects the town of Dunbar with the Youghiougheny River Trail section of the Great Allegheny Passage, just south of Connelsville.
State: OH, PA Length: 10.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
Constructed in 1983 with the help of donations from the Stavich Family and local individuals, the Stavich Trail is unusual in several ways. First, unlike most rail-trails, it was built on an interurban electric railroad right-of-way: the Penn–Ohio trolley line, which fell into disuse in 1933. Because interurban railroads were not built to the stringent standards of conventional railroads, you'll encounter more hills than you might on other rail-trails (the most notable bewteen mileposts 5 and7, with the peak around milepost 6). The Stavich's second notable feature is that it is among the growing number of rail-trails in the country that connects two states. This gently rolling trail takes you from near New Castle, Pennsylvania, to Struthers, Ohio. Running along the Mahoning River, this mostly rural, paved trail is great for bicycling, inline skating, and walking and is accessible for persons with disabilities. This is also a rail-with-trail, which shares the right-of-way with an active CSX rail line for part of the trail's route. Recent detailed research from RTC suggests rail-with-trails, which are growing in popularity around the country, offer communities both safe and enjoyable recreation and transportation options. The U.S. Department of the Interior named the Stavich Bicycle Trail a National Recreation Trail in 2003.
State: PA Length: 14.60 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete, Gravel
The Steel Valley Trail follows the shores of the Monongahela River, through historic battlefields and former steel mill sites in Homestead, Braddock, Duquesne, McKeesport, Glassport and Clairton. Massive industrial furnaces from the Homestead Steel Works stand along with smaller artifacts, such as a ladle car. These industrial artifacts and interpretive signage add interest to both the trail and the retail area called The Waterfront. The district is now a modern retail center with offices, restaurants and entertainment, all rebuilt to reflect early 20th century charm and its industrial past. The Steel Valley Trail is a crucial link in the 335-mile Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C. corridor that is made up of the Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath. Currently, the Steel Valley Trail runs between Glen Hazel and Clairton. Following the waterfront, the trail continues to the refurbished Hot Metal Bridge, which provides a connection to the Eliza Furnace Trail section of the Three Rivers Trail system. In addition, at the Clairton end (near State Street/SR 837) the Steel Valley Trail links to the Montour Trail. For more information and updates on the Steel Valley Trail, visit the Steel Valley Trail Council; for more information on the Great Allegheny Passage, visit the Allegheny Trail Alliance.
State: PA Length: 25.20 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete, Crushed Stone
The Three Rivers Heritage Trail system evolved from five separate trails and today comprises nine different sections. Four of these, the North Shore Trail, the South Side Trail, the Eliza Furnace Trail and the Pittsburgh Riverwalk, are all riverfront trails along the three rivers that form Pittsburgh's famous point.
State: PA Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The Tredway Trail's full name is the Wynn and Clara Tredway River Trail, a 2.5-mile run on the eastern side of the Allegheny River just north of New Kensington. The trail is included in an initiative called the Erie-Pittsburgh Trail Alliance, which is focused on connecting trails between Pittsburgh and Lake Erie. The Tredway Trail parallels the river along Boggs Way through a densely wooded corridor.
State: PA Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
2.5 miles of the planned 13 mile trail are now open. Approximately 2 miles are asphalt pavement with a short .5 mile section of unimproved gravel in the middle section. A map is available at the trail web site. www.mctrails.org From the Mercer County Trails Association Web Site: "This recreational trail will run from Sharpsville to Orangeville along the abandoned Pennsylvania Railroad and Erie Railroad lines. It will be an 8' wide blacktop surface and will cross two railroad trestles over the Shenango Reservoir. The project will be completed in phases as funding becomes available. A possible future section could also link to Transfer and Greenville."
State: PA Length: 0.50 miles Surface: Grass, Gravel
The Vestal Trail is 0.5-mile connection through town of McCandless that joins the Oakridge neighborhood to the playing fields at its eastern end. The trail is maintained by volunteers of the Rachel Carson Trails Conservancy and is part of the Harmony Trail corridor.
State: PA Length: 17 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone, Dirt
The West Penn Trail, a National Recreation Trail, runs largely along the corridor of the Portage Railroad line that operated from 1830 to 1864 between Pittsburgh and Harrisburg. The trail is steadily being extended. Before you visit, check the Conemaugh Valley Conservancy website for current route information. Since the first trail section opened, the West Penn Trail has been extended to cover 17 miles. It is made up of five sections: 1) Conemaugh River Lake, near the Conemaugh Dam; passes over four stone arch bridges dating back to the early 1900s; 2) Bow Ridge Switchback to Conemaugh Dam Section passes two tunnels and a hydroelectric plant; challenging and great for extreme bikers; 3) Dick Mayer, follows a former railroad bed and is challenging; 4) Saltsburg, hugs the banks of the Conemaugh River for more than 4 miles, passing through beautiful woodlands filled with lush green vegetation during warmer months; horseback riding permitted; 5) Kiski Extension, continues along the east riverbank for 1.5 miles, where it comes to an open field. Past this point the trail becomes private property and has two washouts that are not passable by bicycle. Two main events are held in Saltsburg each year: an annual Native American Festival and a 3-day Canal Day Festival with live music, crafts, food, games and fireworks. At Canal and High streets, the West Penn Trail links to the Westmoreland Heritage Trail.
The Westmoreland Heritage Trail is an excellent example of a family-friendly multi-use rail-trail. This crushed-limestone trail features reclaimed railroad bridges over the Conemaugh River and Loyalhanna Creek, both offering great views of the river hydraulics below. The trail offers opportunities for bird watchers and other naturalists as well. The Westmoreland Heritage Trail runs along a section of the former Penn Central rail line, which fell into disuse in 1972. The rail line was originally opened in 1852 by a subsidiary of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, led by George Westinghouse, Jr. to connect Saltsburg and Export. The line served to transport both passengers and freight between the many towns along its route. Even on the hottest summer day you will find yourself enveloped in a lush deciduous canopy on this scenic trail. A portion of it runs along a small tributary that attracts various wildlife, and natural seeps can been seen in the limestone railroad cuts at various points. At its eastern end in Saltsburg the Westmoreland Heritage Trail connects to the West Penn Trail. The Westmoreland Trail has a distinct uphill grade virtually the entire 5-mile length from Saltsburg to Slickville, offering a fine opportunity for a quick downhill ride back to Saltsburg. The trail currently ends at State Highway 819 in Slickville, but the Regional Trail Corporation hopes to extend it all the way to Trafford, for a 22-mile rail-trail experience and connections to other trails.
State: WV Length: 16.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Wheeling Heritage Trails are known locally as two trails: the Ohio River Trail and the Wheeling Creek Trail. The route is flat and paved, and beautiful signs along the way provide a self-guided tour of Wheeling's past. The Ohio River Trail segment runs from Pike Island Locks and Dam in Clearview to 48th Street at Water Street in South Wheeling. The trail provides an urban escape and an opportunity to soak up local history and modern industry in this historical city. The route follows the eastern bank of the Ohio River, once the lifeblood of the city's manufacturing industry. Barges still go up and down the river, and with good timing and patience you can watch one progress through the series of locks. Take a break to rest on a bench and you will be rewarded with a splendid view of the river and wildlife. The Wheeling Creek Trail segment begins in downtown Wheeling at Heritage Port and heads east to Elm Grove. Along the way you'll cross the Hempfield Viaduct high above Wheeling Creek and pass through Hempfield Tunnel. This segment of the Wheeling Heritage Trails is less urban and meanders along a wooded corridor.
State: PA Length: 43 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
For up-to-date information on the Great Allegheny Passage, visit the Allegheny Trail Alliance Web site and to discover Trail Towns along the Great Allegheny Passage, visit the Trail Town Program Web site
The YRT North Section is a 43-mile limestone surfaced trail built along the "railbanked" right-of-way of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad between McKeesport and Connellsville. The north section of trail has been completed from just north of Boston down to Connellsville and is open and free to the public! The trail continues to Confluence for 66 continuous miles of one of the most beautiful trails in the country. The trail is designed as a non-motorized, shared-use, recreational trail for bicycling, walking, fishing and canoe access, hiking, nature study, historic appreciation, cross country skiing, picnicking, and horseback riding. The smooth surfaced trail is accessible to people of all ages and all physical abilities. The trail parallels the West Side of the Youghiogheny River and connects many small towns and rural open spaces along the entire river valley. This trail is part of the Great Allegheny Passage, a 152 mile bicycle and walking trail that will eventually connect Pittsburgh with the C&O Canal in Cumberland, MD, on non-motorized trails.
State: PA Length: 28 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
This trail has been named as one of the best walking trails in the world. Writing in the October 1994 issue of Travel and Leisure Magazine, Rita Ariyoshi named the Youghiogheny River Trail among 19 paths from France to New Zealand as "The World's Best Walks". It's a popular trail, and hence can be a busy one. In nine years from 1986 to 1995 the number of user-days grew from 45,000 to 200,000. This trail is part of the Great Allegheny Passage, a 152 mile bicycle and walking trail that will eventually connect Pittsburgh with the C&O Canal in Cumberland, MD, on non-motorized trails.