West Penn Trail
The West Penn Trail offers miles of scenic trail to explore by foot or bicycle.
Explore West Penn Trail
This beautiful multi-use trail, which is entirely volunteer maintained, utilizes old sections of the Pennsylvania Railroad to provide users with a unique 17-mile route from near Blairsville to Historic Saltsburg. Both tranquil and rich with history, the trail passes through backwoods and over four spectacular stone-arch bridges (built in 1907) revealing views of the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal, which operated in here mid-1800’s.
Did you know?
The West Penn Trail is recognized as a National Recreation Trail, is part of the TransAllegheny Trail System, and is an important link on the Pittsburgh-to-Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway.
Trail Sections
The West Penn Trail offers a unique hiking and biking experience, with several miles of hills and grade changes, sandwiched by two sections of rail-trail. The middle portions, Bow Ridge and Dick Mayer, are fit for those seeking a more challenging outing, while the rail-trail sections offer nearly flat surface for a more relaxing experience.
Pollinator Paradise
Pollinator Paradise along the West Penn Trail is a project dedicated to supporting native pollinators using native plants. Our mission is to cultivate pollinator friendly habitats and raise awareness of their connection and importance to our local environment. Contact the Pollinator Paradise team directly at pollinatorparadiseWPT@gmail.
What’s Next for West Penn Trail?
CVC continues to work with our partners at the Roaring Run Watershed Association to link the West Penn Trail to the Roaring Run Trail and Recreation Area. This project will extend the trail through Avonmore, then north to Apollo. To our east, efforts are underway that will eventually connect the West Penn Trail with the Hoodlebug and Ghost Town Trails.
View our Sponsors.
View our Partners in Recreation.
Discover the Heritage Tour
As you walk or ride along the West Penn Trail, look for our Heritage Tour Markers. There are over 50 sign markers designed to share the rich history and cultural treasures along the trail. Look for facts and photos about Historic Saltsburg, the Pennsylvania Railroad and the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal.
West Penn Trail Council
Get your hands dirty! To keep expenses at a minimum, the West Penn Trail Council oversees the operation and maintenance of the trail. They help CVC raise funds to cover the costs of routine trail maintenance and coordinate volunteers. If you enjoy the trail, please consider joining CVC, volunteering, or giving the gift of a small, monthly donation. Our annual maintenance goal is $5,000.
Trailheads & Parking
Enjoy any section of the trail, thanks to conveniently located trailheads and parking areas.
Access driving directions to each location by clicking on our Trailheads and Parking descriptions.
Hours of Operation
West Penn Trail is open to the public daily from dawn to dusk. Plan your ride or walk to allow enough time to reach your vehicle before dusk, as many parking areas are not lit and/or may close at dusk.
Accessibility
To accommodate those with physical impairments, CVC and the West Penn Trail permits the use electric powered bikes and trikes. Please review our policy. Vehicles powered by gasoline are strictly prohibited.
Safety
Pennsylvania law requires that all children under 12, operating vehicles of any kind, must wear a helmet. CVC and West Penn Trail Council strongly encourage all trail visitors using motorized and non-motorized devises to wear a helmet.
“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.” – John Muir
A Race Like No Other
Mark your calendars! The next West Penn Trail Triathlon is set for October 12, 2024. In this adventure race, you’ll kayak, bike, and run your way over river and trail in beautiful, Historic Saltsburg. Join solo or bring your team of 2 to 3! To see the results of the 2022 Triathlon, click here.