Ride With Purpose
Rail-Trail Jersey Collaboration
Supporting Rail Trails with Every Jersey
Rail-Trail Jersey Collaboration
Supporting Rail Trails with Every Jersey
Key highlights include the Eastern Continental Divide, where the trail reaches its highest point before descending toward Pittsburgh, and the Big Savage Tunnel, which offers spectacular views upon exiting. Cyclists also have the opportunity to connect with the C&O Canal Towpath in Cumberland, extending their journey all the way to Washington, D.C.
The GAP is more than just a scenic ride; it’s a journey through history. The trail is dotted with interpretive signs and landmarks that tell the story of the region’s industrial past, from coal mining to the heyday of the railroads. Friendly trail towns along the route provide rest stops, lodging, and local eateries, making it easy to plan a multi-day adventure.
Cyclists riding the 9/11 National Memorial Trail experience a diverse journey through some of the most scenic landscapes in the eastern United States. The trail weaves through urban areas, rural countryside, historic towns, and national parks, offering a mix of terrains from paved roads to gravel paths. It also connects with existing trails, such as the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath and the Great Allegheny Passage, which are renowned for their picturesque beauty and accessibility for cyclists of all skill levels.
Winding through a mix of rural landscapes, small towns, and wooded areas, the Montour Trail features a series of bridges, tunnels, and restored railroad trestles, providing users with a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Notable sights along the trail include the impressive McDonald Trestle, the Enlow Tunnel, and the peaceful Montour Run Valley. The trail is also popular for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Currently, the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail is composed of various completed sections, such as the Allegheny River Trail, the Samuel Justus Trail, and the Oil Creek State Park Trail, each offering its own unique scenery and historical significance. The trail runs through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque river valleys, following the routes of former railroads and canal towpaths.
Along the way, trail users can explore historic towns, former industrial sites, and natural areas rich in wildlife. Key attractions include Oil Creek State Park, known for its role in the early oil industry, and the scenic Allegheny River, which offers opportunities for kayaking and fishing.
The AVTA manages over 60 miles of rail-trails, including the Allegheny River Trail, the Sandy Creek Trail, and the Samuel Justus Trail. These pathways follow historic railroad corridors, winding alongside the Allegheny River, Sandy Creek, and Oil Creek. The trails connect charming towns like Franklin, Oil City, and Emlenton, providing opportunities to explore lush forests, sparkling waterways, historic bridges, and cultural landmarks.
The trail passes through charming towns like Ford City and Kittanning, providing access to local shops, dining, and historical sites. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Allegheny River, lush woodlands, and unique geological features. Highlights include the Brady Tunnel, an old railroad tunnel being restored, and multiple scenic overlooks perfect for photography or quiet reflection.
The Armstrong Trails connects to other regional trail systems, contributing to Western Pennsylvania's vast network of multi-use trails. It’s a haven for outdoor adventure, offering a safe and accessible path for exercise, exploration, and appreciation of the region’s rich heritage and natural landscapes.