North Face Philadelphia PA

Activities: Hiking, Snowshoeing

Info:
Location: Windber, PA, on Route PA56
State: Pennsylvania
Total Elevation: 1249
Trail Length: 6.3 miles
Trail type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate

Description: The trail is located in Gallitzin State Forest, just south east of Johnstown on router PA56. The trail is arranged in a double loop, with a total length of about 17 miles. One of the few meadows on the JP Saylor TrailCrossing several creeks, through forested areas the way is clear for some wonderful Hiking or snowshoeing and the wildlife viewing is incomparable. The trail also includes a suspended bridge which is a lot of fun to traverse. The short, but steep ascent to the ridge top added some challenge to the trail. Also, the majority of the trail is through woods, with only a few sections that crossed grassy meadows. I prefer Hiking in the woods, with little to no undergrowth, and for the most part this trail was just that. If you are looking for a nice day hike in the Johnstown area, this one should be on the top of your list.

Activities: Hiking, Mountain Biking, Road Cycling, Snowshoeing, Fishing, Camping

Info:
State: Pennsylvania
Location: Black Moshannon State Park
Length: 40 miles
Trail type: dirt tracks/natural/paved
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Description: The Allegheny Front Trail (or AFT) is a relatively new Pennsylvania Hiking trail that encircles Black Moshannon State Park. While currently being plotted using GPS equipment, the estimated length of the trail is currently 40 miles. A panorama of the Allegheny Front Trail in PennsylaniaUnder construction since late 1995, the AFT traverses some rocky, rugged portions of the Allegheny Plateau, passes along five different mountain trout streams and the Moshannon Creek, and includes 11 vistas along its circuit. A 7-mile cross-connector passes through the park, while most of the orange-blazed trail is outside the park’s boundaries. The northeastern portion intersects with several blue-blaze cross-country ski trails. If 40 miles isn’t something you can manage, there are many smaller hikes possible, utilizing many of the side trails and forest roads. The terrain, though challenging in places, lends itself to novice hikers and this trail is a great way for those new to backpacking to get their feet wet.