In Blair, outdoor experiences meet a rich railroad history. Canoe Creek State Park showcases a landscape of a lake, wetlands, and old-growth forests; historic sites and museums also reveal how deeply the railroad shaped the region’s history. This makes it easy to tailor your stay to different interests: take in the scenery and wildlife, or visit places that tell stories of early rail connections, working life, and architecture.
Wetlands, Forests, and Birdwatching
Canoe Creek State Park covers 961 acres. Its landscape includes a 155-acre lake, wetlands, former fields, and old-growth forests that provide habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. The historic lime kilns are also among the park’s main features. Nature programs, an education center, and guided hikes offer further ways to explore the landscape and its history.
Birdwatching is also a feature of the Lower Trail: sections along the route are designated “Important Birding Areas.” Bald eagles and ospreys have been spotted there. The Lower Trail runs for nearly 17 miles from near Canoe Creek State Park in Blair County northeast to near Alexandria in Huntingdon County. The details about its length and route give you a clear point of reference if you’d like to include a longer trail in your plans.
Trails Connected to Railroad History
The Allegheny Portage Railroad was the first railroad to cross the Allegheny Mountains. At the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site, more than 15 miles of hiking trails follow sections of the original railroad route. Here, nature and transportation history are uniquely connected: the trails run along a historic rail corridor, while the Lower Trail, with its designated birding areas, offers a different focus.
A separate trail leads to the Staple Bend Tunnel: from the trailhead, the tunnel is accessible via a two-mile walk. There are two described routes from the visitor center to the historic Lemon House, via the boardwalk or the old Gallitzin Road. A half-mile trail also leads through the woods to the house from the picnic area parking lot. This makes it easy to distinguish between different trail lengths and historic destinations when planning your visit.
At the Summit Level Visitor Center, you’ll find a range of exhibit areas and models. These include a life-size replica of a canal boat, the Lafayette locomotive, and artifacts from the Portage Railroad; there are also hands-on, interactive exhibits. The visitor center offers another way to learn about railroad history through specific objects and models.
Museums, Historic Structures, and Views of Trains
At the Railroaders Memorial Museum, railroad artifacts, immersive environments, and life-size dioramas tell the story of Altoona’s railroad community. Orientation films complement the exhibits. The Harry Bennett Memorial Roundhouse has a working 105-foot turntable and displays the museum’s collection of rail vehicles. At Horseshoe Curve, the focus shifts to passing trains: the railway runs through a 2,375-foot curve there. A viewing area, exhibit hall, and museum shop are also among the visitor amenities.
The historic buildings tell different stories, too. Fort Roberdeau includes a reconstructed fort from the American Revolutionary War, outbuildings, and a smelting furnace, as well as a restored 19th-century farmhouse and barn. Baker Mansion is a Greek Revival-style mansion built in 1849; period rooms and exhibits tell its story. Canal Basin Park features a canal-boat-shaped play structure and a visitor center in the restored Victorian Reiser House.
The Mishler Theatre is an important historic and architectural landmark. Its program includes theatrical performances, orchestral concerts, ballets, and performances by nationally recognized artists. If a particular show is important to your visit, check the schedule for suitable dates.
Explore Altoona
The Altoona Transportation Center offers local bus, intercity bus, and rail services. In Altoona’s historic downtown, Railroad City Brewing offers a selection of craft ales; the selection may change. Together, practical travel information and a local food-and-drink stop complement excursions to natural areas, museums, and historic sites.
Discover more destinations: Altoona, Tyrone, Duncansville, Tipton, Hollidaysburg, Pike, Lancaster, York.
For the broader travel overview: Pennsylvania.
