Area
The first railroad to circumvent the Allegheny Mountains, the Allegheny Portage Railroad was the finishing piece of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal. "The Portage" opened in 1834, marking the first time that there was one, direct route between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. All things to all people, it served merchants, passengers, slaves in pursuit of freedom, and soldiers from the Mexican War.
Entrance fee is $0.00.
Admission is free to visit Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site as well as all five Western Pennsylvania National Parks.
The park is located just off U.S. Route 22 approximately 12 miles west of Altoona and 10 miles east of Ebensburg. Take the Gallitzin Exit and turn right, following the signs. Visitors prior to 1992 accessed the park in other ways, but the GALLITZIN EXIT of US Route 22 is now the way to access the visitor center and historic area.
The park is located in Cambria County, PA, and is at the summit of the Allegheny Mountains. Therefore, the park often takes on winter extremes. If planning on traveling from a long distance, please contact the park beforehand to ensure that the facilities are open. Please consult weather forecasts to ensure conditions are safe to travel in. Spring, summer, and fall are generally uneventful, but severe thunderstorms can occur.
