In The News

“In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy” – William Blake

Winter is a wonderful time to enjoy the Allegheny Mountains. Whether your preference is the thrill of downhill skiing or snowmobiling, or the quiet challenge of cross-country skiing or ice skating, there’s a perfect destination awaiting you in Central Pennsylvania. State Parks offer fun and educational programs year-round, including special Winter-themed events. For more information about State Park programs, including registration and fees, log on to: www.visitpaparks.com.

And here are great Wintery places to visit in the Alleghenies:

BLUE KNOB STATE PARK Located within 25 miles of Altoona and Johnstown, Blue Knob State Park features the second-highest mountain in Pennsylvania (3,146 feet above sea level). Eight miles of trails and roads are available to snowmobiles after the end of hunting season. Most park trails provide scenic and challenging cross-country paths for expert skiers, while service roads, closed roadways, and open areas are recommended for the intermediate cross-country skier. But the biggest call of the mountain is to downhill enthusiasts: skiers, snowboarders, and snow tubers. Blue Knob Recreation, Inc. operates Ski Blue Knob, one of the most challenging ski resorts in the state. With a vertical drop of 1,050 feet, four chair lifts, and extensive snowmaking, mountain-goers can enjoy winter days and nights on the mountain. For more information including conditions and group rates, call 800-458-3403 or visit their website: www.blueknob.com.

CANOE CREEK STATE PARK Located 12 miles East of Altoona, Canoe Creek State Park is a 958-acre park around a 155-acre lake that is a favorite destination for ice-fishing fanatics. Two ponds just north of the Beaver Dam Road Boat Launch offer a perfect setting for outdoor ice skating. Biking, hiking, and horseback trails make for an enjoyable day on cross-country skis. The bike trail runs between Route 22 and Mattern Road, while a bridle trail loops around the northern part of the park. Eight miles of hiking trails wind their way through forests and fields along the lakeshore.

PRINCE GALLITZIN STATE PARK Located in northern Cambria County, Prince Gallitzin State Park is an easy drive from Altoona, Johnstown, and Indiana. Seven miles of marked trails make this a popular destination for cross-country skiers. Registered snowmobiles may use the 20-mile trail network following the last day of deer season in December through April first, weather permitting. Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site Located approximately 12 miles west of Altoona, the Allegheny Portage National Railroad Historic Site covers 1,249 acres. Celebrating the first railroad constructed over the Allegheny Mountains, the inclined plane railroad was considered a technical wonder in its day, operating from 1834-1854. It played a critical role in opening the interior of the United States to trade and settlement. Today, visitors may enjoy not only the historic significance of the park, but also the beautiful Central Pennsylvania countryside. Cross-country skiing is permitted on trails during the winter months.

RAILS TO TRAILS & THE LOWER TRAIL: DCNR, working with counties, local municipalities, organizations, and volunteer groups have acquired, designed, and constructed a state-wide network of former rail lines for recreational use. The trails are safe and welcome pathways for cross-country skiing (no motor vehicles are allowed). Lower Trail is a 16.5 mile jaunt along the Frankstown Branch of the Juniata River. The crushed limestone and asphalt-surfaced path goes from Huntingdon to Blair County with trailheads at Alfarata (near Alexandria), Mt. Etna Station, Cove Dale, Williamsburg, Grannis, and Flowing Spring. Portable toilets and food are available in Alexandria and Williamsburg, along with Bed and Breakfast lodging. The Allegheny Portage Railroad Trail is a two-mile pathway of wood, chipped grass and some crushed stone. The Staple Bend portion of the trail gives skiers an up-close look at the country’s first railroad tunnel.

For more information on these and other winter-time things to do in Blair County and the surrounding region, visit our website calendar: www.AlleghenyMountains.com. A winter brochure is available through the regional tourism council, you can pick one up at any of the area's Visitors Bureau Welcome Centers, including the Blair County Convention Center. Or visit this website: www.TheAlleghenies.com