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The Panhandle Trail offers a direct 29-mile journey between the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia and the suburbs of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Although the trail follows an old railroad grade through the hilly terrain, there was only so much the railroad builders could do to flatten the route across the Allegheny Plateau. Expect a steady climb to Bulger, the high point on the rural journey.
About the Route
The Panhandle Trail leaves off from its western endpoint in Weirton, which borders both Ohio and Pennsylvania in West Virginia’s narrow Northern Panhandle. It makes a steady 16-mile climb through hardwood forests to Bulger, where the trail begins its descent to Collier Township in the western suburbs of Pittsburgh. The 17-mile center segment through Washington County is paved.
While the westernmost trailhead in Weirton is located at a dead end, the trailhead on McColl Road is often the westernmost access point for most trail users. Heading east, the trail follows Harmon Creek, with its wildflowers and flowering shrubs, through the small community of Colliers, to the Pennsylvania state line in 4 miles. The trail continues on a grade for 7 miles to Burgettstown, the first stop along the route with retail and dining options for hungry or thirsty travelers.
After a short descent, the trail continues to climb at a steady grade for 4.5 miles to the high point in Bulger. In 2 miles the trail arrives in Midway, so named because it is the railroad’s halfway point between Pittsburgh and Steubenville, Ohio.
In 2.5 miles, the Panhandle Trail passes beneath the Montour Trail’s 1913 railroad trestle, which also crosses Robinson Run. More services are available within a mile in McDonald, home of the McDonald Trail Station, a history center at the South McDonald Street (Railroad Street) trailhead, which is open on weekends from April–October. The substantial brick buildings in McDonald are evidence of the oil boom that struck in the late 1800s; coal is still mined, and coal piles can be seen.
Over the next 3.5 miles, the trail passes through Sturgeon, Noblestown, and Oakdale. All have food, refreshments, and trailhead picnic tables (some covered).
The trail crosses Robinson Run six times over the next 3.7 miles before the trail reaches its eastern endpoint at Walkers Mill Road in Collier Township. A pedestrian bridge 0.6 miles before the end crosses Robinson Run to Fossil Cliff, where fossilized fern leaves can be found.
Connections
In McDonald, the trail connects to both the Montour Trail and the Montour Trail - Airport Connector.
The Panhandle Trail is part of the Great American Rail Trail, a 3,700-mile route from Washington to Washington D.C.
The Panhandle Trail is also part of the Industrial Heartlands Trails, a developing network of trails across West Virginia, Ohio, and Western Pennsylvania.
Trail History
The route of the Panhandle Trail was made famous by the merger of several railroads in the 1860s to create the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Chicago, and St. Louis Railroad (PCC & StL), also referred to simply as the Panhandle Railroad. It was named for the sliver of northern West Virginia it crossed. The Pennsylvania Railroad leased the route in the 1920s, and the line later became part of the Penn Central and Conrail systems until it fell into disuse in 1991.
The Panhandle Trail runs between Harmon Creek south of Cove Rd. (Marland Heights) and Walkers Mill Rd. (Oakdale, PA), with parking at the eastern end of the trail.
Parking is also available at:
See TrailLink Map for all parking options and detailed directions.
Rode Montour Trail connector to Oakdale - about 10 miles. Trail in great shape. Recommend Hunner's Pizza in Sturgeon and Helicon Brewing in Oakdale - both on the trail. Saw many other places along the trail. Trail well marked. Trail is flat in this section except going up the connector.
Hadn't ridden the panhandle in about 5 yrs. It is in much better condition than it was last time. WV has what looks to be very new blacktop. Good trail, without heavy traffic.
I haven't been on this trail in about 5 yrs. It is much improved since then. WV now has pavement . Not all the way but within a few miles of Weirton.PA/ Allegheny County still gravel but in nice condition.
Last year we went to a pancake breakfast in McDonald PA and had a great time. We did a lot of the Panhandle trail and rode over the trestle bridge on the Montour as well. We decided to come back and do the rest of the Panhandle from the WV starting point (Weirton - Harmon Creek) to the town of Burgettstown. We encountered a few bike riders outside the WV part (Washington County) that had flat tires - they showed us these very small tacks. They are very hard to see and you would not be able to see them riding. On the way back, I had a flat too and my brother this morning found one in his tire as well. We have reported this to the Panhandle people and the WV trail folks too. Please be careful - The trail is nice and we got some good pull pork sandwiches at Walden's in Burgettstown. The pancake breakfast was awesome again too - we may make this a tradition each year
My Ride: Hardtail mountain bike with 26x2.2in tires. Did entire trail in 2 days. Avg Speed: 12mph
DAY 1: Started at the parking lot in WV by RT 22. Rode 15miles to the middle of the trail at the parking lot in Bulger PA and back to WV. Then drove to camp at the Montour Trail Boggs Campsite in the parking lot for that trail. Free and fine for one night. Total: 31miles
DAY 2: Drove to Bulger PA trail parking lot (15min drive) and rode 13 miles to the end of the trail that dead ends in Rennerdale. End of the trail is a parking lot and it appears like the trail continues but it takes you to someone's backyard..... I recommend turning around at the rock quarry with pavilion and firepit seating area. Afterwards I rode back 13 miles to the car in Bulger. Total: 26miles
CLIMB/DESCENT
Weirton-Bulger: 400ft Climb
Bulger-Rennerdale: 300ft Descent
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Weirton WV - PA line: 4miles Rough gravel, not packed well. Ideal for 1.75in tires and wider, road bikes will work, just won't be much fun. The trail follows a creek and has plenty of seating and port-a-john's along the way. One of the most scenic parts of the trail if you can get past the bad gravel....
PA line - Bulger: 11miles Trail becomes asphalt. Wooded area with bridges over country roads and creeks. Very pretty. No restrooms but a couple nice overlooks with benches.
Bulger - McDonald: 5.5miles Begins with sweeping views of rolling hills with small wooded patches right outside of Bulger, then quickly becomes wooded around the trail for the remainder. The Montour Trail connects to the Panhandle Trail. THE MCDONALD TRESTLE BRIDGE IS NOT ON PANHANDLE TRAIL. Get there by taking the connection to the Montour trail and then turn left (south). The McDonald Trestle Bridge is a must see but don't let the pictures for this trail fool you, you have to go a bit out of your way to see the stellar view. Google McDonald Trestle Bridge and Montour Panhandle Connector.
McDonald - Rennerdale (End of trail): 7miles Towns get closer together and roads are a bit busier for a few miles. Also the trail becomes packed gravel soon after McDonald. A few spots are washed out but not bad. From about Oakdale to the end of the trail it is very smooth for being gravel. Also within the last few miles is a parking lot for the bike trail and Fossil's Cliff/Neville's Woods Hiking Trail. Less than 1/2 mile from the hiking trail parking lot is a rock quarry outcrop with a pavilion and seating area with large firepit. Basically this is the end of the trail. Only a road crossing and a parking lot is past this. If you miss the end of the trail and go past the last parking lot you'll end up in someone's back yard.
June 5th - my brother and myself had a wonderful day biking the Panhandle and a little of the Montour. We started at the McDonald Trail Station and on a surprising note there was a pancake breakfast benefit. We met a nice couple that was working there selling the tickets and items benefiting the trail. Were awesome to talk to. We started the trail going east. We always enjoy seeing dedications to the war hero's - there was a very nice one in Oakdale. We met folks / scouts working on the flower beds that day too. Trails always offer things to see or explore. Rennerdale - there is a place you can look for fern fossils. The best part of this trail was near the end before Walker's Mill. There is a beautiful rock quarry that is a must see. We came back to the McDonald Trail Station and had some fantastic blueberry pancakes before going west. The trail station is a museum too. A lot of oil history. Not to far west is where you are by Montour trail. We did go over the McDonald Trestle bridge on our way back. It really is a must to do. Our west trip took us as far as Joffre. In Bulgar, is another nice war memorial to those that served. What was most enjoyable is a stretch where the trail travels through a large open area where it has a slight hill climb but there are some good pictures if you like this type of scenery. The day ended with good ice-cream in McDonalds at M.A.'s Ice Cream Shop. My brother had the largest 'small' ice cream cone I ever saw.
This pretty trail is less than ideal for only a few reasons: 1) parts are gravel and parts paved, which frustrates riders who crave pave 2) it can be quite hot on a warm day, with too little shade for long stretches, 3) it does not parallel a stream or river, for those who prefer to bike along waterways, and 4) if you want to do the whole trail from PA to WVA in one day, stay overnight, and come back the next, the good news is that there are at least 3 motels near the trail's end in Weirton. The bad news is that they're over 1 mile straight up a long hill from the trail's end, requiring bikers to ride on the berm of busy Rte. 22 (or take the longer Cove Rd.) to the lodging options at Three Springs Drive. For those who might want to travel from Weirton to Pittsburgh and stay over, I know of no lodging w/i 3 miles of the Walker's Mill endpoint.
First time on this leg of the trail. Found the parking lot very easily I think it was about 2 miles east of the bridge which crosses the Ohio river. Nice signs at exit showing were the parking lot was located. Very large parking lot but no where to change clothes. Heading east first couple miles were packed gravel then paved nicely for the rest of the trail. Lots of rest stops and scenery here. Long climb up Midway then to to McDonald bridge / trestle where I rode on the panhandle connector at nice picnic table rest stop. 22 miles to this point decided to head back to Weirton. I also went on the unimproved section toward town. Maybe someday the trail will go to the ohio river.
The poles between the trail are too close and too high. She clipped the pole and fell breaking her leg. Poor design but great trail. I could design a better pole in 5 minutes.
I go on this trial when I get the chance too. My dog loves it. It is a beautiful trail and there are friendly people. Very well kept up with and it’s beautiful when the sun shines.
We rode the bulgar to Walker Mills section today so now we have rides the entire trail. Nice surface except one section that was really rough in spots. Was downhill all the way to Walker Mills so ride back was not as fast. Will definitely be riding this trail again.
Rode the trail May 2020 & would ride the entire trail that’s in PA again. The WV part of the trail is so rocky and bumpy and has so much broken glass on it I’ll never ride there again.
We ride multiple times per week between Oakdale and Burgettstown. This morning we decided to do the short ride between Oakdale and Rennerdell and then head to McDonald. By the time we got to Greggs Station both my husband and I had flat tires with multiple holes in them. Something has to be either in the trail parking lot (we normally park across the street at the brewery) or somewhere on the trail.
Washington County portion is in excellent condition!!! Allegheny portion is not paved with a few bumps. Still good trail to ride. I highly recommend riding.
Other than a few puddles, the ride from Oakdale to MCDonald is awesome. It starts out as crushed limestone and then becomes paved. It’s also flat so once you are on the paved section it’s a great place to take kids to learn to ride or skate. From McDonald to Burgettstown there are quite a few hills so it’s a great workout.
Parked at the lot near Colliers Road.
Ran East, towards Pittsburgh.
1st half mile or so is hard packed dirt/rocks. Relatively smooth.
Then once in PA, the trail is paved.
Mostly level and only small inclines.
Ok scenary, the garbage dumped on the one hillside is an eyesore, but if you're looking for some used tires...
The trail follows along a stream which is nice. Saw a couple squirrels while running.
So, as always, if in the area and want to get some miles in, give this trail a try.
And you can always tell your friends and family that you ran all the way from West Virginia to Pennsylvania.
Just dont tell them its only about a half mile.
Enjoy.
rode this route as a RR passenger when I was a kid..[from Burgettstown to Pittsburgh]..memories around every bend!....
I would recommend this trail to anyone who wants a well maintained trail with a slight incline. Thanks to the volunteers.
I love walking on the Panhandle Trail and have been doing so for well over a decade. I usually start where the trail intersects with Scotch Hill Road and walk to Sturgeon and beyond. Unfortunately, the rains this year have washed away much, and in some places all, of the crushed stone between Scotch Hill Road and Sturgeon, so now I start at Sturgeon and walk to McDonald and beyond. It would be great if the aforementioned section could be fixed.
I like riding the Panhandle trail nice black top from Washington county to WV. The lack of water is something I think needs to be looked into at some point. The water fountains that are there already are not working at mile 0 and 4.5 with the one at 5.5 just working enough to get some water. Just past the brewery there is a very rough spot. Otherwise the trail is great to ride. The WV side has been repaved this year so it's nice to ride that section now.
My husband and I usually ride on the panhandle trail weekly and today when entering at the oakdale entrance i was surprised how bad that section of the trail has become. I witnessed a few riders getting off their bikes and walking through this section. I did the same on the way back. It just needs to be graded and more gravel spread around
I think I'll start my ride in McDonald until this is remedied
Great trail!
We parked near the fire department in Midway, PA. The parking lot is situated nearly on the trail with easy access. We took the trail left and rode about 3.5 miles to Sturgeon where the nice asphalt path became crushed rock near the Allegheny Co line. We turned around there preferring the asphalt and rode to Burgettstown, PA. At Burgettstown we turned around and rode back to our car only because we are older folks who bike only about 20 miles round trip. It was a nice cool fall feeling day. We saw many squirrels, birds, and beautiful golden rod fields dotted with purple iron-weed flowers throughout. A Giant Eagle grocery store is very near the McDonald, PA entrance to the trail which is a plus if you wanted to get drinks or snacks for the journey. Overall impression – Washington Co. is the winner when it comes to the Panhandle Trail. They have done an excellent job in making the bike trail smooth with asphalt, conveniently located porta-johns and nicely mowed areas and benches along the trail.
The renovated portion of the Panhandle from Burgettstown to Weirton is paved and beautiful. We bicycled this trail in mid-September and the goldenrod was plentiful. There is Harmon Creek next to this section for quite awhile. When we got to West Virginia, the surface changed to dirt and small stones. This was OK, but you can't ride as fast on it. We hoped to have lunch in Weirton, but there are no sandwich or snack places anywhere near the trail. You have to go on the road to the downtown of Weirton, and we did not do that. We went back to Burgettstown and were amazed to get free hot dogs at the Grand Opening of a small market right at the parking lot for the trail. We just lucked out. It is 12 miles from Burgettstown to Weirton with a rise and fall of 500 feet. A great ride.
The Washington count piece, which is the vast majority-is all paved and in great shape! Surprising elevation changes-not enough to gas you but when you do the whole trail from Carnegie to Wierton on a sunny, humid day (57.7miles) it is challenging.
I did the trail on a hybrid bike 🚲, which is a cross between a road bike & mountain bike, and it was fine. The first 6.7 miles from Carnegie are packed gravel, then 4 miles in WV sorta looser gravel. The end in WV is disappointing in that u r in middle of nowhere, surrounded by roads but with no clearly discwrnable way to Wierton city center or Ohio River.
Thumbs up whoever maintains trail-grass cut, trees trimmed, nothing to distract from the task at hand
Nothing spectacular, but just a nice trail for a quick ride after work. Easy access every few miles for those who live in south or west hills of PGH. Have not yet done the full 58 mile “out and back”’to WV, but will someday! I believe that the portion of trail in Wash. Co PA is paved. The portion in Allegheny Co PA is crushed stone, but very easy ride for adults and kids alike.
I began at the Trailhead near Carnegie, PA and rode only to the West Virginia State line since I was doing an out and back making my mileage 47.25 instead of 58. I rode the day after some very heavy rain. The trail in Allegheny County is gravel and while wet, for the most part, the water was absorbed by the trail or ran off. There were a few places where you could see a bit of the trail washed out, but it was no problem with the 28 mm gravel tires I was riding. A tree had fallen and was blocking a portion of the trail in Allegheny County when I passed in the morning. Upon my return a few hours later, crews were working on the remains of the tree which had been removed from the trail surface.
God Bless Washington County where I grew up, the trail is paved from the Allegheny County line to the West Virginia Line. There were no puddles from the heavy rains and the pavement was just about pristine. Beautiful riding surface. Much to my surprise, this trail had some elevation changes if you care to call 879 feet of climbing over 47 miles an elevation change. I doubt any grade exceeded 1.5%, but there were both uphill and downhill sections going both directions.
The reviews of this trail were pretty negative. One complained about the pavement in Washington County and I have to conclude the author was off his meds. I thought it was wonderful. Others complained that it was not very scenic. While there were no tunnels or viaducts or vast expanses to view, it was just a rural ride that I felt was all beautiful all of the time. I saw many deer including a Mama and her fawn and an assortment of other critters.
On my return trip, I stopped in Burgettstown for a late breakfast of pancakes and eggs at the 1709 Main Street restaurant just off the trail. Typical small town diner, good food, courteous country people, and great prices. A couple ladies riding the trail also came in to eat while I was there.
I am sure I will ride the Panhandle Trail again when I am visiting Pops. I can find little to not like about the Panhandle Trail. I ding it one gear as there is no outstanding feature that is a must see, so it gets 9 Gears (on a 10 gear cassette).
The only highlights on this trail from Rennerdale to Oakdale were some of the different bird species that we saw. There were no amenities, nor were there cute little picnic stops along the stream. The Helicon Brewing company should have consulted an architect and the Robinson run was completely rust colored. I was disappointed to say the least. The only other highlight of the day were the surprisingly good pretzel sticks at the Rennerdale Corner Store.
this trails amazing, i saw someone complain that they didn't like the new pavement. i can't understand why. it's flawless it's fast it dries fast, idk i love it, it connects to the Montour trail which is crushed limestone the whole way if u really hate pavement. i hate riding roads around here, it's literally a death wish and i don't even like sharing the roads with bikes when I'm driving. this trail is like riding a road with out any cars to worry about.
I recently rode from the Harmon Creek starting point in Weirton, WV to just east of Oakdale, PA, a 50 mile round trip. The trail is crushed limestone for just under 4 miles from Weirton to the Pennsylvania state line, where Washington County has recently competed blacktopping their section of the trail. There were a few muddy ruts on the unpaved West Virginia section but nothing terrible. The new blacktop was welcome, as it is a slight uphill grade for the first 10 miles towards Burghettstown, PA. The paving continues the length of the Washington County section, a distance of 17.5 miles. The trail continues east towards Walkers Mill as crushed limestone, but in much better condition than the West Virginia side, which seems likely to continue deteriorating unless Hancock County takes some pride in its section.
It was a beautiful day and a beautiful ride. I plan to do it more often now that it has additional paving.
Recently the crunched limestone was covered with asphalt from the east side of McDonald for at least 10 miles to the west. This is now an unpleasant ride. The area is surrounded by hard surface paved road. Why add more? It rides harder, hotter, doesn't drain as well and over time as it buckles and potholes what will maintenance be like? and what will it cost?
Trail has gone from one to enjoy to one to avoid.
This trail is one of my favorites. We have ridden from the Carnegie trail head to just across the WV state line and back several times. There is a small section of the trail that is loose gravel, but otherwise it is largely paved and a well-maintained trail. Depending on how far you're going, it does get a bit remote, so bring plenty of water and some snacks. Also, you will spend some time out of tree cover, so sunscreen is also a good idea.
took this trail from the starting point of trail. well maintained. interesting things to see towards the beginning. turns to paved path at Washington county. Easy to find and has a large parking lot. I would recommend to all levels of riding
We rode this trail last week and found it to be a great trail.The trial offers great scenery with evidence of the days gone by are all along the trail. The trail is crushed limestone with nominal incline. If you start in W.V. it is about 4 miles before you would enter Pennsylvania.
My compliments to those involved in providing the paving improvements for this trail which includes Allegheny and Washington Pa and Hancock County WV. Washington County has fully paved their section. This trail is a very good trail system stretching into two states. We rode from Allegheny section to MacDonald Pa section on 7/26. We stopped at Hunners? Restaurant for lunch. Very large servings. Very good food and nice people. The trail itself has some very nice features and elevation changes. It does intersect with the Montour Trail. Great trail and nice for the people of Washington County (thanks)for the improvements. Can't miss trail
Me and my dog hiked from Burgettstown to the trailhead at Harmons Creek today. Leisurely 4 1/2 hour hike. Really good surface for walking but the dog preferred the grass along the sides of the trail. Plenty of wildlife out there today. Will do this again some day.
Finally got around to the Panhandle. I was interested in seeing some old RR history so made it out before the trees filled in. Lots of old relics and foundations.
Beautiful path with benches and porta poties in the South Fayette Twp. section. Starts to get a little rugged towards W.V. a road bike would not be a good choice for this Trail past the Collier TWP. section.
Washington County is a little boring, small homes and junkyards.. but the scenery picks up right before the W.V. line.
Also note there is heavy ATV and dirt bike use in the Washington county section. Too many access points to stop them effectively. From them riding up on the banks there are many large sharp rocks kicked onto the trail. I noticed 2 separate bikes with flats. Also tons of ruts from spinning tires to be mindful of.
Not too many hills but a few steady grades to climb. With a hardtail MTN bike and a lunch stop in Weirton I made it out and back in 5hrs 40 mins for 58 miles total distance. if your close it is a good warm up / training ride!
Don't forget to check out the cool PA/WV line marker!
excellent ride, great views, and wildlife.
It's a great ride through small quiet towns. To me the western end is pretty remote and has a lil less traffic between Burgettstown and Colliers but plenty of wildlife and great views. Alot of old Pennsylvania RR artifacts litter the area if your into railroads and that type of things. easy access points and connections with other trails. all around a good trail it really is a hidden gem
Took the mountain bike up to the rail entrance in Weirton...Typically ride the Wheeling Heritage trail and this was a nice diversion. It had poured rain on my car ride to the trail but had stopped and the sun came out. Trail was full of puddles but nonetheless I started out and could see that it was scenic and fun. If your used to riding on pavement this is a nice workout. I saw none on the trial for my entire 10-11 miles ride out. I pulled over and took some water only to feel rain coming again. I decided to cut my ride short and head back and within 5 minutes it was a downpour. I decided to keep going as there is not much shelter along this section of the trail and rode back in about 40 minutes of pouring rain. Soaked in water and mud I did encounter a few walkers once i got to about a mile or so form the trail end back in Weirton...Even thought the bike and I were covered in water and mud I decided that was one of the most fun rides ever. I can't wait to go back and see ore of this trail on a sunny day.
If you are feeling fenced in and need a little space, this is a great trail. For 5-7 miles at each end I ran into some people, but the center section really was "through the middle of nowhere." I saw few to no bikes for 20 miles.
Road end to end and back, starting at Walker Mills. Stopped in Midway (10 miles) to fill my 2 water bottles and drink a water bottle before heading to WV. When I got to the end, I could not locate a water supply, so I had to wait until Midway to re-supply. Covered approx. 40 miles before re-filling water. Make sure you have enough water on the trip.
Very scenic. Very rural. Lots of open space with little tree cover. Use your suntan lotion.
4 stars for long distances between water stations.
This little segment is a virtual treasure chest of Pennsy artifacts, exhibiting some of the most classic vestiges of the Pennsylvania Railroad! Head down to the big gravel pile at the west end of the trail, at Mile 39.7. Look in the towering weeds (They weren't there when I first arrived in 2007), and you'll see the intact ex-double main tracks resuming their course west. We are only a mile east of the site of old Weirton Junction Tower ("WC"). Westbound Track 2 is jointed rail; Eastbound Track 1 is heavy, welded mainline rail. "WC"s old home signal bridge is all that's left of this pre-1985 manned interlocking plant out there at Mile 41. Now, connected with "WC" is that BEAUTIFUL old 4-track signal bridge 0.9 miles east, with the "Panhandle Trail" sign suspended from it. This is a CLASSIC Pennsy multi-track signaling structure, once ubiquitous over its 10,000 mile system. This bridge held bi-directional "distant" (approach) position light signals at Mile 38.8 for "WC" to the west, and for the remote "CO" switches at Colliers, to the east. Heading east, you'll see two little, short "tombstone" trail mileposts 1 and 2. These are NOT railroad related. That concrete chunk on the south side of the trail at Milepost 37.1 is the south pier of the water bridge over five tracks at the old water station here. The water tower stood way over there by what was the old Collier Steel Corporation in 1950, at exactly Milepost 37. FYI, this line was 4-tracked from "WC" to the WV/PA state line. Collier Yard expanded the line to SIX tracks between Mile 37.5 and 36.4. The grade here was a gentle uphill from "WC" at less than 1% eastward to Mile 33.5, where it gets STEEP! "CO", that remote interlocking plant, existed between Mile 36.3 and 36.0. "CO"s eastward home signal bridge was located at 36.7, just west of the the highway overpass, and just east of where that mine siding girder bridge pulls in from the south side. You'd be looking at "CO"s westward signal from the east side of the grade crossing at the Colliers trail parking lot. Now, east of Colliers, here's where the good stuff shows up. The twin double-track steel girder bridges just east of Colliers are bordered by classic "PRR" bridge railing. If you look closely (see the photos), you will see raised "PRR" lettering at the center of each railing base stanchion. Some are eroded off... Some are pretty darn clear! The 4th track stubbed, and the line narrowed to three tracks, at the West Virginia-Pennsylvania line marker (see photos), a beautiful and ultra rare type of classic Pennsy maintenance division marker. The P.C.C. & St. L RR was the original name of the Panhandle Division of the PRR, the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Chicago, & St. Louis Railroad. It is wild that this whole southwestern leg of the PRR mega-system was named for this narrow little slice of the West Virginia panhandle that the system passed through right here! The railroad was always known as "the Panhandle" from Pittsburgh to Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Louisville, Saint Louis, and via this route from Columbus northwest up to the west side of Chicago's Union Station! To still see an intact "PCC & StL" marker is simply AMAZING! Triple track concrete "trough style" Bridge "35.09", is still faintly marked as such, in typical PRR bridge marking style ("35" over "09"), on its southwest abutment. The "PRR" railing lettering on this bridge is in BEAUTIFUL condition, especially on the east-facing end stanchion on the north side bridge railing. And finally, but certainly not least... Classic PRR Milepost 35 is the only ex-PRR milepost still remaining actually ON the trail (Milepost 11 exists in the weeds across the street from the Walkers Mill parking lot). And this is a SPECIAL one too, cast concrete with riveted on numerals, beautifully repainted, just like that state line marker. Someone has unsuccessfully tried prying off the marker's numerals, too! PLEASE don't try that! This is a rare treasure that future generations should have the privilege to see, and I am so glad to see that someone is taking good care of it, too! So take a short ride out here on the "Great Panhandle Route", as the old poster once proclaimed. Here are some real ghosts of the super railroad which hosted the great trains that plied this route for over a century!... The Spirit of Saint Louis, the Cincinnati Limited, the Penn Texas, and on and on. So sad that its all gone... Well... MOSTLY! Enjoy the Ride! -Rich Ballash, Latrobe PA 10-6-14.
Several neat vestiges of the Standard Railroad of the World can be spotted on this segment of Pennsy's "Main Line - Pittsburgh to Saint Louis." It's been 35 years since the last passenger train on this line, Amtrak's New York to Saint Louis "National Limited", the direct descendant of PRR's "Spirit of Saint Louis", last plied this route. Note the wide right-of-way, which was occupied by two main tracks and a center siding. The ruling (steepest) grade on this line, over the ridge here, was 1.0%. There were ten tunnels on the "Panhandle" between Pittsburgh and Eastern Ohio. Just west of the short, flat straight spot just west of Trail Milepost 29 (which is also the railroad mileage from Pittsburgh Union Station), observe the deep cut running the length of that first curve. This relatively short Dinsmore Tunnel, Tunnel #4 (from Pittsburgh), was "daylighted" as the railroad was modernizing and widening its former double track line, either by daylighting or bypassing all but one of the original ten tunnels, back around 1950 (YouTube explores several of the still-intact, abandoned tunnels). Three miles further west, down the long, winding descent into the West Virginia panhandle, a striking and amazing remnant from early 20th century passenger service survives at MP32, Hanlin. The pedestrian subway for the station, complete with heavy, solid stairway railing, typical PRR yellow-gold bricks, and even the frame of what was glass block overhead lighting for the tunnel, is still there! Both platform stairways are still there. The Hanlin depot stood on the south side of the eastbound platform at Hanlin. Passengers boarding or detraining from westbound trains would pass under the busy triple-track main from the depot through this tunnel. This is an extremely cool are rare vestige of passenger service that was curtailed at little stations like this way back in the early half of the last century. And before you leave, take a look at that antenna perched way up at the top of that telephone pole on the north side of that station platform. That was a "repeater" antenna which transmitted radio communications between the trains and the manned interlocking towers on this line, from the 1950's, way up through the line's abandonment. -Rich Ballash, Latrobe, PA 9-28-2014
my map my ride says it's 28.68 miles with the gps
the length to the water fountain near the parking
lot @ the end of the trail near Carnegie. Found it
easier going back to Harmon Creek,(more downhill), I saw a couple of road bikes. I wouldn't do it, there's spots of loose dirt, (like sand)on this
trail, gives the legs a workout, if your out of shape I wouldn't do the whole Panhandle trail.
4 wheelers are ruining it, loose dirt now, saw a
fat girl passing me on one going about 30 the other
way on a 4 wheeler. beer bottles here & there.other
then that it's clean.
but I love it with a mountain bike.
I have been living in Florida for the last 15 years
but I'm telling you, if it's hot you may need 2 full water bottles, (unless you want to go in Dollar General or similar.
4 stars because of the danger of being runover by an ATV FourWheeler.
My wife and I started at the Walkers Mill trail head, which was easy to find from exit 57 of I-79 near Carnegie. This is the east end of the trail, which generally heads west to Weirton, WV. We went out about 7 miles and back. The trail's crushed limestone, the surface is generally good. It's a very gradual uphill ride heading west. Pretty rural overall, there are some nice shelters and picnic tables along the route and the ride's reasonably scenic. We'll definitely continue the ride further west to see what we encounter!
Went the whole way from Harmon Creek to Carnegie with my 3 sons. We really enjoyed the trail, well maintained and scenery. Only downside was that we did not feel very welcomed in McDonald, PA, where we were honked at by a motorist and yelled at by someone on a motorcycle. Shame b/c we spent money at the Dollar store there, you'd think they'd welcome the addition to the local economy.
The Mrs. and I loaded up the truck this past weekend and braved a few sprinkles to head out to the Harmon Creek trailhead, which is almost, but not quite, at the western terminus of the trail. By the time we got there, the sky was clearing and we were in for a beautiful, yet windy, day. we took the time to ride all the way out (less than a mile) to the western end of the trail. from the parking lot down there is what appears to be old road millings. Then we struck out east and rode all the way to the MacDonald viaduct where the Montour trail crosses over the Panhandle, then back. Over 41 miles for the day. The grade out of Harmon Creek is slow and gentle, the trail is well-maintained and smooth. Riding back west to Harmon Creek we did hit a bit of a headwind, but this is a nice, quiet trail and a great ride. Enjoy!
I was dissapointed to learn that horses are not really welcome on this trail and that the Harmon Creek parking area and the start of this trail is no horses.
Rode the Panhandle from the trailhead near Carnegie out to Midway (again) yesterday. Just wanted to mention that the wash from the July storms that had rolled through the area was already fixed and the surface was smooth and pleasant all the way to Midway (mile 10.7). Shout out to the maintenanace folks who got things back in top shape for the riders! Have fun and enjoy the ride!
Rode the panhandle today, just a couple days after some big rain storms hit the area. From the eastern end things were still pretty smooth up till Fort Cherry where you cross the road by the Ambulance station. Shortly was a bit of mud, then about 1/2 way to Midway was some serious washout with deep rutting across the trail. I also went up the connector to the Montour trail to cross the Viaduct just for kicks. The bottom half of the connector trail was washed out and had deep sand deposits in places as well. Certainly a rough ride, but about what I expected given the flooding the area had been though just a couple days earlier. This is a really great trail and I'm sure the crews will be fixing what needs worked on before too long, but proceed with caution going west from Fort Cherry for the time being. Enjoy the ride!
I ride a cross bike, typically about 15 mph for flat paved trails. I began my ride at the trail entrance off SR 22/30 in Brooke County. To get there, simply take the Harmon Creek Road exit, which I believe is the last exit before crossing the big bridge into Steubenville (heading west towards Ohio). take that exit, make an immediate left, then an immediate right and there is parking. If you are from south of Brooke County, I recommend taking what is known as the 'Ohio Side', Rt. 7 north. pass steubenville, you will see signs for a left turn to get onto 22/30, then take Veterans Memorial Bridge east toward Pittsburgh. take the Harmon Creek Road exit, turn right off exit, then go to trail parking as described above.
There are no restroom facilities there, but at around mile 1 there is a port a john.
The trail is very smooth cinder surface with mild grades. very good for spinning. I ended up averaging 14 MPH for an hour ride, only about 1 mph slower than I do for pavement which, for a cardio rider is great. I also got a great workout that tested my legs because I had to push harder, due to the softer surface.
as I have discovered with a couple of other trails, there are vertical poles in the trail at road crossings to attempt to prevent vehicular traffic from entering. I only encountered a few of these during my ride, and they were adequately spaced such that I didn't have to gear down.
scenery is exquisite. I will definitely be back to this trail, and kudos to the person/crew that maintains it.
I believe there are plans to connect this trail to the Wheeling/Heritage port system at some point in the future, headed up by Bob Skatterday, but I do not see evidence that this is doable at this point. If you are accustom to riding on the Wheeling trail which is completely flat/paved, this is a fun diversion from that with a varied surface, and only about 1/2 hour north drive from Wheeling. Highly recommend.
I love this trail! I began my walk from the trailhead at Walker's Mill. The trail is wide and well maintained. I passed over 100 people along this trail and yet the trail was wide enough to handle all the traffic. There are small trails that lead off of the mail rail-trail that are well used and easily accessible. I was able to walk off the trail, walk around an outcropping of rocks and spend time at the stream. It was private yet you could see the biker/pedestrian traffic on the main trail! Nice! A new bridge has been installed down the trail a bit, and you can cross the creek and hike up and all around Neville's Woods, enjoyed the Eagle Scout Project that was constructed all through the woods. I look forward to going back to the trail soon.
There’s nothing quite like riding bike on one of the hottest days of the year, and this trail from West Virginia’s northern panhandle into Pennsylvania is a great spot to do it. In 93-degree heat and sweltering humidity we popped lots of cold water into our bottle cages near Weirton, W.Va., and started pedaling east.
The trailhead couldn’t be easier to find – just off the Harmon Creek exit of Route 22 and you’re right there. It’s literally under the highway. There’s LOTS of parking, but no restroom. You’ll find a portable toilet about a mile along the trail.
The first two or so miles are smooth and the trail is lined with markers that click off each quarter mile. But around mile three, as we crossed a big double-wide rail bridge, the trail became progressively rougher. Packed gravel gave way to large stones and the mile markers disappeared. Even so, it was a gorgeous ride along (what I’m guessing is) Harmon Creek and through heavy woods. Even in the heat we saw bunnies, chipmunks and even a curious deer, who popped out of the tall grass after we passed by.
Around mile five we came upon a fairly new tent right at trailside that was slashed and abandoned. We created stories about what happened there, one more fantastical than the next, but in the end were really curious about the scene.
Oh, and there’s something oddly fun about riding across that invisible state line. The spot is nicely noted by an old white rail marker
With only part of a day to ride and water running low, we turned around at the eight-mile mark and headed back to the trailhead. As this direction was ever-to-slightly downhill we got back in good time with a not-as-hot breeze in our faces.
Two thumbs up for trail. We’ll be back in cooler climes to tackle a much longer ride.
Rode the panhandle trial from McDonald to Burgettstown and wanted to give an updated review of what I discovered:
- Trial consists of crushed stone very similar to Montour trial. This results in a very rideable surface. There was no large stones or rough sections on this portion of the trial.
- Area was very much away from it all. Although you pass through small towns, area was very rural with a lot of wildlife. I saw deer and other small game throughout the trip.
- Pennsys restaurant is now closed in Burgettstown. However, according to a local, there is new restaurant opening soon on the trial across from Pennsys.
-Overall, the experience was great and I can't wait to ride other sections of the Panhandle Trial.
I use this trail for biking, running or walking. Not many intersections so cross traffic is no issue. Try it, you'll like it.
wow wee what can i say i rode this trail round trip starting in wv( fantastic ) left me wanting more
it was a littly ruff in some places but it was a great ride and i will ride again next time im in the area great scenery i saw Deere rabbits ground hogs and turkey and other critters my round trip time was 5 hours and 20 min not pushing to hard it was a fantastic ride and i recommend to every cant wait to do it again
enjoy
We road the entire length from West Virginia to Walker's Mill and back Labor Day weekend. A very pretty trail but not many facilities on the western part. No water available on the western end so make sure you have a full bottle. The beginning 6 miles or so are very rough with big loose stones so you have to watch where you are going and even then you will hit the rocks. We have hybrids so it kept us busy trying not to get a flat.
Hunner's Deli in Sturgeon is yummy.
The trail now connects through Burgettstown. I rode the entire length recently while traveling from Pittsburgh to Columbus. (Actually, it was one leg of a cross-country trip: http://www.john.stechschulte.net .)
"This trail is 29 miles from Walkers Mill (Near Carnegie), PA to 1 mile short of Weirton, W.V. I have bicycled the entire length of this trail, and for the most part it can be divided into three sections. Section one runs from Walker Mill to the Village of Primrose. This section is complete for almost 9 miles (8.8 to be exact). This is a very nice section that has lots of interesting things to see, along with many amenities. Some of the highlights are . . .
Mile 0 - Walkers Mill - This is a nice little park that is next to a quarry pond. There are lots of benches and pavilion shelters between here and the first quarter of a mile. There is even a windmill along this section of trail that when spinning provides oxygen to the fish in the pond.
Mile 5.75 - Sturgeon - Permanent restrooms and Hunner's Deli, good place to get lunch (Pizza, Hoagies and more) or a Powerade (Closed on Sunday).
Mile 7.25 - McDonald Trail Station, open on weekends, has historical items on display and free trail maps!!
Mile 8.21 - McDonald Trestle. This is where the Montour Trail intersects with the Panhandle. It is fairly easy to get from one trail to another, but will be better once the connector trail, including the ""Rob Run Bridge"" is finished (which is currently under construction, and soon to be finished). The trestle is one of the highlights of the Montour Trail, and you ride right under it on the Panhandle Trail.
Section two, which runs from Primrose to Burgettstown (a distance of 8.2 miles) is not yet completed, and has a very rough trail surface and is not at all enjoyable except for the bicyclist who enjoys really rough terrain, and wet terrain, because in one section the trail is always covered with water from mine drainage (just after Primrose). The surface is mostly railroad ballast made of large rocks,and it gets worse the farther you go, especially after Bulger. Although there are a few things to see on this section of trail, mostly it is not that interesting, and it really hurts the body to ride 8 miles on big, hard rocks. Ride this section at your own risk. Some things you will see on this section are . . .
Mile 10.5 - Midway - Small town with a convenience store and an air pump (Sorry no Presta Valves), (Which you might need, since this trail is so rough).
Mile 11 - Radio controlled airplane club - sometimes they are flying over the trail. Landing strip not far from the trail, look for the windsock.
Mile 13.5 - Bulger - Small village with an interesting veterans memorial and two artillery cannons. Nice place to stop and rest.
Mile 17 - Burgettstown - Small town with a Restaurant (The Pennsy, claiming to have the best breakfast in town) and Convenience Store right next to the trail.
Section three runs from Burgettstown to Weirton, and has a pretty decent trail surface for most of the way. Mileage from Burgettstown to the trail end is about 12 miles (12.44 exactly). This interstate section of the trail enables you to bike from Pennsylvania to West Virginia and has a really nice picnic area at the state line (mile 24.67) with an old train marker from the P.C.C.&St.L.R.R.
Highlights are . . .
Mile 25.22 - Colliers, WV - There is parking and a little picnic area here.
Mile 26.88 - Pond and Wetlands - Look for the beaver lodge.
Mile - 28.49 - Harmon Creek - This is the main trailhead for the Weirton side of the trail. From here they have mile markers that run almost every quarter mile all the way to mile 4 (From our side Mile 24.38). They also have lots of benches and an interesting use of an old signal bridge to hang the ""Panhandle Trail"" sign on.
Mile 29.44 - Dead End - This is the end of the trail. There is a huge pile of gravel and on the opposite side of the pile are train tracks. There is a picnic table here.
Overall, this trail is really good on the two ends, and when the middle section gets completed, this trail will be an excellent opportunity for recreation and adventure between Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Let's hope the construction for the middle section get underway soon, but in the mean time, be sure to take advantage of this trail's opportunities on either end, and for you hardcore people, get out on the middle section too!
Updated October 12, 2005 - Troy Bogdan"
"This trail is 29 miles from Walkers Mill (Near Carnegie), PA to 1 mile short of Weirton, W.V. I have bicycled the entire length of this trail, and for the most part it can be divided into three sections. Section one runs from Walker Mill to the Village of Primrose. This section is complete for almost 9 miles (8.8 to be exact). This is a very nice section that has lots of interesting things to see, along with many amenities. Some of the highlights are . . .
Mile 0 - Walkers Mill - This is a nice little park that is next to a quarry pond. There are lots of benches and pavilion shelters between here and the first quarter of a mile. There is even a windmill along this section of trail that when spinning provides oxygen to the fish in the pond.
Mile 5.75 - Sturgeon - Permanent restrooms and Hunner's Deli, good place to get lunch or a Powerade (Closed on Sunday).
Mile 7.25 - McDonald Trail Station, open on weekends, has historical items on display and free trail maps
Mile 8.21 - McDonald Trestle. This is where the Montour Trail intersects with the Panhandle. It is fairly easy to get from one trail to another, but will be better once the connector is finished (which is under construction). The trestle is one of the highlights of the Montour Trail, and you ride right under it on the Panhandle Trail.
Section two, which runs from Primrose to Burgettstown (a distance of 8.2 miles) is not yet completed, and has a very rough trail surface and is not at all enjoyable except for the bicyclist who enjoys really rough terrain. The surface is mostly railroad ballast made of large rocks. Although there are a few things to see on this section of trail, mostly it is not that interesting, and it really hurts the body to ride 8 miles on big, hard rocks. Ride this section at your own risk. Some things you will see on this section are . . .
Mile 10.5 - Midway - Small town with a convienience store and an air pump (Which you might need, since this trail is so rough).
Mile 11 - Radio controlled airplane club - sometimes they are flying over the trail. Landing strip not far from the trail, look for a windsock.
Mile 13.5 - Bulger - Small village with an interesting veterans memorial and two artillery cannons. Nice place to stop and rest.
Mile 17 - Burgettstown - Small town with a Restaurant (The Pennsy) and Convienience Store right next to the trail.
Section three runs from Burgettstown to Weirton, and has a pretty decent trail surface for most of the way. Mileage from Burgettstown to the trail end is about 12 miles (12.44 exactly). This interstate section of the trail enables you to bike from Pennsylvania to West Virginia and has a really nice picnic area at the state line (mile 24.67) with an old train marker from the P.C.C.&St.L.R.R. Highlights are . . .
Mile 25.22 - Colliers, WV - There is parking and a little picnic area here.
Mile - 28.49 - Harmon Creek - This is the main trailhead for the Weirton side of the trail. From here they have mile markers that run almost every quarter mile all the way to mile 4 (From our side Mile 24.38). They also have lots of benches and an interesting use of an old signal bridge to hang the ""Panhandle Trail"" sign on.
Mile 29.44 - Dead End - This is the real end of the trail. There is a huge pile of gravel and on the other side are train tracks. There is a picnic table here.
Overall, this trail is really good on the two ends, and when the middle section gets completed, this trail will be an excellent opportunity for recreation and adventure between Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Let's hope the construction for the middle section get underway soon, but in the mean time, be sure to take advantage of this trail's opportunites on either end, and for you hardcore people, get out on the middle section too!
October 2005 - Troy Bogdan"
I was riding on the northern panhandle trail and rode 3 miles of the new section from the West Virgina state line into Washington county. It was just great. Good job on the surface grading.
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The Great American Rail-Trail promises an all-new American experience. Through 12 states and the District of Columbia, the trail will directly serve nearly 50 million people within 50 miles of the route. Across the nation—and the world—only the limits of imagination will limit its use.
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