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Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic SiteTheme(s): Invention & Innovation | Westward Expansion | |
Description:
The Allegheny Portage Railroad was the first railroad constructed over the Allegheny Mountains. This inclined plane railroad operated between 1834-1854 and was considered a technological wonder in its day and played a critical role in opening the interior of the United States to trade and settlement.
Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site is located in southwestern Pennsylvania approximately 12 miles west of Altoona. Today's park covers 1249 acres. The main unit contains the Summit Level Visitor Center, the historic Lemon House, Engine House #6 Exhibit Shelter, the Skew Arch Bridge, picnic area and hiking trails. The Staple Bend Tunnel unit is located approximately 4 miles east of Johnstown, PA.
Designations:
Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site (August 31, 1964)
Accessibility:
The Summit Level Visitor Center, Engine House #6 Exhibit Shelter, Lemon House, boardwalk, and picnic area are all wheelchair accessible.
A wheelchair accessible boardwalk will lead you the short distance from the visitor center to the historic area of the park. On request an alternate form of transportation for people with walking difficulties may be available to access the Lemon House from the visitor center.
A wheelchair accessible boardwalk will lead you the short distance (200 meters)from the visitor center to the historic area of the park. On request an alternate form of transportation, for persons with walking difficulties, may be available to access the Lemon House from the visitor center.
A full-scale model of a stationary steam engine in engine house #6
can be viewed from a wheelchair-accessible catwalk.
Getting Around:
Most Facilities are trailheads are within walking distance of the main parking lot. The picnic area can be accessed by car from the Summit/Cresson exit of U.S. Hwy 22.
Activites:
Educational Programs | Hiking | Nature Walks | Cross Country Skiing | And more.
Facilities:
Picnic Areas | Comfort Stations | Tours & Guided Activities | And more.
Nature: Wildflowers | And more.
Directions to Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
Car:
The park is located just off U.S. 22 approximately 12 miles west of Altoona and 10 miles east of Ebensburg. Take the Gallitzin Exit and follow the signs.
Public Transportation
There is no public transportation to or within the park; personal vehicles only.
Attractions:
Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum
Phone:814-946-0834
Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark
Nearby Parks:
Johnstown Flood National Memorial (25 miles)
Fort Necessity National Battlefield (100 miles)
Friendship Hill National Historic Site (140 miles)
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