Last updated: October 12, 2026
Thing to Do
Guided Hikes
NPS
Please check back for summer 2027 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 for the free hikes, please call the Visitor Center at 814-886-6150.
Please note, the interior of the Staple Bend Tunnel is closed due to a rockfall. Participants will still be able to view both sides of the tunnel via a path around the side of the tunnel structure.
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 for the free hikes, 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.Please note, the interior of the Staple Bend Tunnel is closed due to a rockfall. Participants will still be able to view both sides of the tunnel via a path around the side of the tunnel structure.
Details
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
Yes
Pets are not allowed in any public building or office except for service animals.
Pets are permitted in areas not designated closed to pets provided they are restrained on a leash which shall not exceed six feet in length or otherwise physically confine a pet at all times.
Pet excrement must be removed from picnic areas, trails, and areas of heavy public use.
More information on pets can be found in the Superintendent's Compendium.
Pets are permitted in areas not designated closed to pets provided they are restrained on a leash which shall not exceed six feet in length or otherwise physically confine a pet at all times.
Pet excrement must be removed from picnic areas, trails, and areas of heavy public use.
More information on pets can be found in the Superintendent's Compendium.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
Yes
Reservations are required!
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.
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.
Accessibility Information
Sections of various trails are uneven and steep.