The Alleghenies is a six-county region that is spread across south-central Pennsylvania. This long and narrow region follows the Allegheny Mountains and is a fantastic spot for those that love sports, transportation history, and the outdoors. The northern reaches of the region are sometimes considered part of the Pennsylvania Wilds since they are the southernmost portion of the forests that cover much of the northern area of the state.
The most well-known destination in the region is State College, home of Penn State University. While the campus dominates the city, there are still plenty of great things to do in and around State College.
South of State College, visitors will find Altoona and Johnstown. While these cities might have been more prominent in the middle of the 20th century, there are many great things to do in this corner of the region. If you love transportation history, Altoona has a great tradition of railroading. Johnstown might be best known today for its devastating floods, but was once one of the largest steel-producing regions of the country.
To the south, Huntingdon County is known for being the home of Raystown Lake, the largest lake entirely within Pennsylvania, while Bedford County is known for its state parks and covered bridges, and Fulton County is known for its rural charms.
Whether you like big cities, charming small towns, or the great outdoors, there’s something to enjoy in the Alleghenies.
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Bedford County is a fantastic destination for anyone that loves rural charms. Bedford County is home to the popular Old Bedford Village, the strange Gravity Hill, and more than a dozen historic covered bridges.
Blair County is home to Altoona, one of the most historic railroading destinations in PA. In the county, visitors can explore the famous Horseshoe Curve and the Railroaders Memorial Museum. There is also historic Fort Roberdeau, the world’s oldest roller coaster, and DelGrosso’s Park.
Cambria County is a former steel mecca and home to the city of Johnstown. In addition to learning about the devastating Johnstown Flood, visitors can visit the Allegheny Portage Railroad, see Hinkston Run Falls, and ride the Johnstown Inclinded Plane.
Centre County is the home of State College and Penn State University. Visitors enjoy hiking Mount Nittany, visiting the All-Sports Museum, touring Penn’s Cave, and seeing Columbus Chapel.
Fulton County is the most rural county in the region. In addition to a large Amish community, highlights here include exploring the Abandoned PA Turnpike, hiking to Jarrett Falls, and Cowans Gap State Park.
Huntingdon County is dominated by Raystown Lake, the largest lake entirely within PA. In addition to the lake, visitors enjoy checking out Trough Creek State Park, going for a ride at the Rockhill Trolley Museum, and biking the Allegrippis Trails.
Top places to visit in the Alleghenies
Visiting Columbus Chapel and Boal Mansion in Boalsburg – People often ask me what one place in PA stands out to me out of the nearly 1,000 I’ve visited. Without even thinking, I respond that it’s Columbus Chapel and Boal Mansion near State College. Without a doubt, this is one of the most amazing places in PA.
Hiking the Abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike – Located in Bedford and Fulton Counties is a 13-mile stretch of abandoned highway that you can legally explore. Travel through the two mile-long tunnels or simply enjoy them from the outside.
Experiencing Raystown Lake Witout a Boat – You don’t need a boat to explore Pennsylvania largest lake. Here are a few of my favorite things to do on the shores of Raystown Lake in Hutntingdon County.
Riding the Historic Johnstown Inclined Plane – The Johnstown Inclined Plane is one of the most impressive historic transportation sites in PA. Check out what it’s like to ride this great funicular and see the view from the top.
Train Watching at Altoona’s Horseshoe Curve – If you love trains, the Horseshoe Curve in Altoona is a must-visit destination. Find out what it’s like to visit this historic innovation and watch trains cross the Alleghenies.
Touring PA’s Only All-Water Cavern – A visit to Penn’s Cave is unlike visiting any other cave in Pennsylvania. That’s because to get through this underground world, you have to ride on a boat.Our newest articles about the Alleghenies region
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