The best walks and hikes in Cambria County

Yes, the region offers several easy walks perfect for a family outing. A great choice is the Grandview Cemetery loop, which is a relatively flat and short walk. Another excellent option is the Johnstown Greenway Trail, providing a simple and accessible path for all ages.

Many trails in Cambria County are dog-friendly, but policies can vary, especially within state parks and national historic sites. It's always best to keep your dog on a leash and check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to visit. For example, Prince Gallitzin State Park generally allows dogs on its trails, but they must be controlled at all times.

The Ghost Town Trail is a renowned rail-trail with a crushed limestone surface, making for a relatively easy and smooth walk. It follows the path of former railroads through the Blacklick Creek valley, passing remnants of old coal-mining towns. A long but manageable section is the C & I Trail & Ghost Town Trail loop near Vintondale, which explores a significant portion of this historic route.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous adventure, the Laurel Highlands offer significant challenges. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail section in Laurel Ridge State Park is a difficult, long-distance route with considerable elevation gain, perfect for a full-day challenge.

Absolutely. If you prefer to end your hike where you started without backtracking, the Johnstown Flood National Memorial loop is a short and historically interesting option. It provides a concise way to explore the area around the former South Fork Dam.

Many trails commemorate the region's industrial and tragic history. The Path of the Flood Trail, for instance, follows the path of the devastating 1889 Johnstown Flood. You can explore part of this history on the hike to the Staple Bend Tunnel, which combines flood history with the legacy of the Allegheny Portage Railroad.

While Cambria County is known more for its forests and rivers, you can find waterfalls in the broader region. Nearby Buttermilk Falls Park in New Florence features a beautiful waterfall accessible via an easy path with boardwalks. It's a short drive from many of the county's main hiking areas and offers a rewarding sight.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll find flat, crushed-gravel rail-trails like the Ghost Town Trail, which are easy to walk. In contrast, trails in areas like the Charles F. Lewis Natural Area feature more rugged, natural surfaces with significant elevation changes, such as the moderate Clark Run Trail & Rager Mountain Trail loop.

Prince Gallitzin State Park has over 35 miles of trails, many of which offer beautiful views of Glendale Lake. The trails range from easy lakeside strolls to more moderate forest hikes. While specific routes are numerous, exploring the trails around the lake's 26 miles of shoreline is a popular activity for visitors.

Most state parks and local trailheads in Cambria County, such as those for the Ghost Town Trail, offer free access and parking. However, national historic sites like the Allegheny Portage Railroad may have entrance fees for certain exhibits, though access to the trails themselves is often free. Always check the specific site's policy before you go.

The komoot community has explored over 18 trails in the area. Hikers often praise the unique blend of natural scenery and industrial history. The well-maintained rail-trails, the serene forests of the Allegheny Plateau, and the opportunity to walk through sites of historical importance are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Reaching trailheads in Cambria County via public transportation is very difficult, as most are located in rural areas away from bus routes. Traveling by car is the most reliable way to access the region's hiking opportunities.