Allegheny Portage Railroad

"Fun with the Family"

In the middle of the nineteenth century, when Philadelphia was being linked to Pittsburgh by rail and canal, this portion of the Allegheny Mountains between Hollidaysburg and Johnstown seemed impassable. So someone came up with a “portage railroad.” A series of inclines carried the freight and passengers up the hills.
The visitor center has exhibits, a twenty-minute movie, and well-informed rangers. The Engine House Interpretive Building features full-scale models and hands-on exhibits. The railroad no longer exists, but you can walk along a portion of its route and see one section of restored track. As you enjoy the view from the overlook, be sure to note Skew Arch Bridge, which is actually twisted so that a wagon road could  pass over the track. Rangers can direct you to the newly-opened Staple Bend Tunnel, located 2.5 miles from Allegheny Portage Railroad in another section of the park. Costumed presentations and ranger-led hikes are available during the summer months.