Safety

Recreate Responsibly

NPS/Matt Turner

The Leave No Trace Seven Principles will allow for a safe and enjoyable visit to Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site!

 

 

Weather

Check the local weather forcast before visiting the park.

Dress appropriately for the season. Light airy clothing will help keep you cool in the summer months. Hats and sunscreen help protect you from the sun. Tempatures can change drastically. Dressing in layers can help keep you comfortable.

Lightning

The park is subject to severe thunderstorms, especially during the summer months. They often occur in early afternoon.

There is a risk of being struck by lightning if you can hear thunder.

If outside, seek shelter immediately.
"When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"

Even once a storm is over, there is still a risk of being struck by lightning. Wait at least 30 minutes before resuming activities after hearing thunder or seeing lightning.

Slips, trips, and falls

Slips, trips and falls can happen at any time, but observing the following guidelines can minimize the likelihood of serious injury:

Watch your step and be prepared to turn around in dangerous settings such as wet and slippery conditions or ice.

Be sure to stay on park maintained trails. Please note there is no winter maintenance on park trails.

Take note of any uneven surfaces.

Notify National Park Service personel at 814-886-6150 if you notice any possible hazards.

Water

It is important to have enough water and to stay hydrated during your visit. Bottled water is for sale in the Visitor Center.

Vehicles

Please park vehicles in designated parking areas only. Please lock and secure your vehicle upon leaving it and make sure all valuables left in vehicles are put out of sight.

Ticks

The most common anthro-podborne disease in the United States is Lyme disease. In our region, the deer tick transmits Lyme disease and is more common in the summer months. A tick factsheet is provided by the National Park Service, Office of Public Health. Additional information can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Rabies

The link provides information from the Biological Resources Division of the National Park Service about rabies and tips for preventing exposure.

Wildlife

While wildlife can be fun to observe, please do not feed any wildlife in the park!

Firearms in National Parks

Visitors may possess firearms within a national park unit provided they comply with federal, state, and local laws. The role of the responsible gun owner is to know and obey the federal, state, and local laws appropriate to the park they are visiting. Please remember that federal law prohibits firearms in certain park facilities and buildings. These places are marked with signs at public entrances. For more information, please visit our Laws and Policies page.