Guided Hikes

Please check back for 2026 hike dates! Reservations are required for Heritage Hikes. The hikes take place rain or shine. Participants are encouraged to wear good walking shoes and bring water. Hike information and dates are listed below. For more information including the meeting location for the different hikes and to make a reservation, please call the Visitor Center at 814-886-6150. Summit Level The Summit Level hike is approximately 3 miles in length from the head of Inclined Plane 6 to near where the Summit Hotel was in Summitville, near the head of Inclined Plane 5. The Summit Level was the highest point that the Allegheny Portage Railroad crossed the Allegheny Mountains. Participants will learn about the inclines and levels of the railroad, how the system functioned, the town of Summitville, and much more. Staple Bend Tunnel This hike takes participants to the first railroad tunnel in America, the Staple Bend Tunnel. On this approximately 5-mile round trip hike, participants will learn about the history of the tunnel, how it was constructed, the Allegheny Portage Railroad, and much more! Several features from the days of the railroad, including stone sleepers and culverts, are visible.