Hiking the Railroad Arch Trail in Buchanan State Forest

Nestled within the scenic Buchanan State Forest, the Railroad Arch Trail is a hidden gem that transports hikers through both nature and history. This 0.75-mile out-and-back trail leads to a remarkable stone aqueduct, an unfinished relic of the South Pennsylvania Railroad project from the 1880s. Built without mortar using native stone, the arch has stood the test of time, showcasing impressive craftsmanship and serving as a testament to an era of ambitious railway expansion that never came to fruition. Despite its short distance, the trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and an easy yet rewarding outdoor adventure.

Imagine stepping into a forgotten chapter of Pennsylvania’s past, where towering forests surround an architectural marvel lost in time. The railroad arch trail in buchanan state forest isn’t just a hike—it’s an experience that combines history with the thrill of discovery. Whether you’re an avid explorer, a history buff, or a casual adventurer, this trail offers something truly special. The untouched beauty, the echo of the past, and the serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination.

Tucked away near Waterfall, Pennsylvania, this trail remains one of Buchanan State Forest’s best-kept secrets. The gentle, slightly rocky path makes it accessible for most hikers, while the reward—a stunning, well-preserved aqueduct—makes it unforgettable. Parking is available near the trailhead, and the area is dog-friendly, making it perfect for a peaceful nature walk with your furry companion. If you crave a short yet fascinating hike that unveils a piece of Pennsylvania’s hidden railroad history, the railroad arch trail in buchanan state forest is an adventure worth taking.

A Hiker’s Complete Guide

Nestled within the verdant expanse of Buchanan State Forest lies a trail that offers far more than just a walk in the woods. The railroad arch trail in buchanan state forest invites hikers to step back in time while enjoying a relatively short, easy hike through Pennsylvania’s stunning wilderness. This hidden gem combines natural beauty with fascinating historical infrastructure, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Historic Railroad Arch Trail

The railroad arch trail in buchanan state forest might not top the lists of Pennsylvania’s most famous hikes, but what it lacks in fame, it makes up for in character and historical significance. This trail leads visitors to a remarkable relic of the past—an abandoned aqueduct built as part of the ambitious South Pennsylvania Railroad project of the 1880s.

The story behind this trail begins with the vision of industrialist William H. Vanderbilt, who planned to create a competing railroad line against the Pennsylvania Railroad. Though the project was ultimately abandoned in 1885 (leading to the creation of the Pennsylvania Turnpike decades later), it left behind several engineering marvels, including the stone arch we can visit today.

What makes this historical hiking experience special is the perfect blend of accessibility and reward. Within a relatively short distance, hikers can witness an impressive example of 19th-century engineering while enjoying the serene beauty of one of Pennsylvania’s most picturesque state forests.

“The Railroad Arch stands as a testament to human ambition and skill, a bridge to nowhere that nonetheless connects us to our past.” — Local Historian James McKnight

Trail Essentials: Planning Your Visit

Before lacing up your hiking boots, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your Railroad Arch Trail adventure:

Trail Information	Details
Location	Buchanan State Forest near Waterfall, Pennsylvania
Trail Length	Approximately 1 mile round trip
Difficulty	Easy to moderate
Elevation Gain	Minimal (about 100 feet)
Trail Type	Out and back
Time Required	1-2 hours (including time to explore the arch)
Best Seasons	Spring through fall (accessible year-round but use caution in winter)

The ideal times to visit are during late spring when wildflowers carpet the forest floor or in early fall when the surrounding hardwood forests burst into a symphony of colors. Photographers will find the lighting most favorable in the morning hours when the sun illuminates the arch’s eastern face.

While the trail is accessible year-round, winter visits require additional caution due to potentially icy conditions on the rocky trail sections. Spring visits might encounter muddy patches, especially after rainfall, so waterproof footwear is recommended.

See Also: Pratt Rock Hike: The Trail to the Mount Rushmore of the Catskills

Getting There & Parking Details

Finding your way to this historical treasure requires some planning, as it’s tucked away in a relatively remote section of Buchanan State Forest.

Directions:

From I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike):

1. Take exit 180 (Fort Littleton)
2. Follow PA-522 South for approximately 4 miles
3. Turn right onto Oregon Road
4. Continue for about 2 miles until you reach the trailhead area

GPS Coordinates for the Trailhead: 40.043879, -77.953622

Parking Near Trailhead:

The parking near trailhead is fairly straightforward but limited. There’s a small gravel lot that accommodates about 8-10 vehicles. During peak weekends in summer and fall, this lot can fill up by mid-morning.

If the main lot is full, there’s limited roadside parking available along Oregon Road, but be careful not to block access roads or private driveways. Ensure your vehicle is completely off the road to allow passage of emergency vehicles and local traffic.

Road Conditions:

Oregon Road is mostly paved but transitions to gravel as you approach the trailhead. While accessible by standard passenger vehicles, the road can become rutted after heavy rains. During winter months, this road may not be plowed immediately after snowfall, so check conditions before heading out.

The Trail Experience: What to Expect

As you set off from the trailhead, you’ll immediately be enveloped by the mixed hardwood forest that characterizes much of Buchanan State Forest. The trail begins on relatively flat terrain before gradually descending toward the creek where the arch stands.

Trail Surface and Conditions

The path starts as a well-maintained dirt trail but gradually incorporates more rocky sections as you approach the creek. While generally considered an easy hike, there are a few spots with exposed roots and small rock step-downs that might challenge those with mobility issues or very young hikers.

About halfway to the arch, you’ll encounter a small wooden footbridge crossing a seasonal stream. This spot provides a nice opportunity for a brief rest and often features beautiful wildflowers in spring and early summer.

Navigation and Landmarks

The trail is relatively straightforward to follow, marked with yellow blazes on trees. Key landmarks to watch for include:

• The wooden information board at the trailhead with a map
• A large glacial boulder about 0.2 miles
• The wooden footbridge at roughly the halfway point
• A slight switchback descent as you approach the creek

For those using trail apps, the Railroad Arch Trail appears on most major hiking applications including AllTrails and Gaia GPS. However, cell service can be spotty in the forest, so downloading maps for offline use is recommended.

Flora and Fauna Along the Way

The trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and plant identification. Common tree species include:

• Eastern hemlock (Pennsylvania’s state tree)
• Various oak species
• American beech
• Black birch
• Tulip poplar

Wildlife Type	Common Species	Best Viewing Season
Mammals	White-tailed deer, Eastern chipmunk, Gray squirrel, Red fox	Year-round (dawn/dusk)
Birds	Pileated woodpecker, Black-capped chickadee, Eastern towhee, Barred owl	Spring/Summer
Amphibians	Red-spotted newt, Spring peeper, American toad	Spring (after rain)
Reptiles	Eastern box turtle, Northern ringneck snake	Summer
Insects	Monarch butterfly, Luna moth, Eastern tiger swallowtail	Late Spring/Summer

During spring, the forest floor comes alive with wildflowers including trillium, jack-in-the-pulpit, and mayapple. Fall brings an impressive display of mushrooms, including colorful amanitas and bracket fungi on decaying logs.

The South Penn Railroad Arch Aqueduct

The crown jewel of this hike is, of course, the spectacular stone arch aqueduct itself. As you round the final bend in the trail, the arch comes into view—a massive structure seemingly out of place in the peaceful woodland setting.

Engineering Marvel

What immediately strikes most visitors is the impressive mortarless stone construction technique used to build the arch. The native stone aqueduct was constructed using locally quarried sandstone blocks, precisely cut and fitted together without mortar—a testament to the skill of the stonemasons of the 1880s.

The arch spans approximately 80 feet across and stands about 30 feet high at its center. The most remarkable aspect is that after nearly 140 years, the structure remains largely intact despite abandonment and exposure to the elements.

Architectural Feature	Description	Historical Significance
Stone Type	Local sandstone	Demonstrated use of indigenous materials
Construction Method	Mortarless fitted stones	Advanced masonry techniques of the era
Arch Span	Approximately 80 feet	One of the largest such structures in the region
Height	About 30 feet at center	Designed for railroad clearance requirements
Age	Constructed 1883-1885	Survived nearly 140 years of exposure
Design Style	Roman arch with keystone	Classic engineering principles applied to railroad infrastructure

Historical Context

This aqueduct was designed to carry the unfinished railroad project over a small creek while maintaining proper grade for the trains. When the South Pennsylvania Railroad project was abandoned in 1885, construction on the arch had already been completed—one of the few structures from the project to reach completion.

The arch represents just one small part of what would have been a massive infrastructure project involving numerous tunnels through the Appalachian Mountains. Today, many of those tunnel entrances can still be found throughout the region, including the nearby Sideling Hill and Rays Hill tunnels that later became part of the Abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike.

Present Condition and Preservation

Today, the arch is maintained and protected as a historical structure within Buchanan State Forest. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) conducts periodic assessments to ensure the structure remains stable and safe for visitors to observe (though climbing on the structure is prohibited).

Preservation efforts focus on maintaining the surrounding land to prevent erosion that could undermine the arch’s foundation while minimizing human impact on the structure itself. Visitors are asked to admire the arch from designated observation areas to help preserve this piece of Pennsylvania history.

Practical Considerations for Hikers

Water and Supplies

There are no trail amenities such as water fountains or restroom facilities along this trail. Hikers should bring:

• At least 1 liter of water per person (more in hot weather)
• Basic snacks for energy
• Bug spray (especially important May through September)
• Sunscreen (even though much of the trail is shaded)

Weather Considerations

The trail sits in a valley that can trap moisture, creating humid conditions in summer and potentially icy spots in winter. Check weather forecasts before heading out, and be aware that the creek near the arch can rise quickly after heavy rains.

Season	Typical Weather	Special Considerations	Recommended Gear
Spring (Mar-May)	45-70°F, frequent rain	Muddy sections, high creek levels	Waterproof boots, rain jacket
Summer (Jun-Aug)	65-85°F, humid	Heat, insects, afternoon thunderstorms	Breathable clothing, bug spray, water
Fall (Sep-Nov)	40-70°F, variable	Leaf cover may obscure trail, early darkness	Layers, headlamp/flashlight
Winter (Dec-Feb)	20-40°F, possible snow	Icy conditions, limited daylight hours	Traction devices, warm layers, headlamp

Cell Phone Coverage

Cell service is inconsistent throughout Buchanan State Forest. While some carriers may provide limited coverage at higher points on the trail, it’s best to assume you’ll be out of range for most of your hike. Share your hiking plans with someone not in your party as a safety precaution.

Recommended Gear

For this relatively short trail, minimal specialized gear is required:

• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction
• Layered clothing appropriate for the season
• Trekking poles (optional, but helpful for the rocky sections)
• Camera (you’ll want to document the arch!)
• Basic first aid kit

Trail Etiquette & Conservation

Leave No Trace Principles

The Railroad Arch Trail’s growing popularity means practicing Leave No Trace principles is essential for its preservation:

1. Plan ahead and prepare – Know regulations and special concerns for the area
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces – Stay on the established trail
3. Dispose of waste properly – Pack out all trash and food scraps
4. Leave what you find – Do not take “souvenirs” from the historical site
5. Minimize campfire impacts – No fires are permitted on this trail
6. Respect wildlife – Observe from a distance and do not feed animals
7. Be considerate of others – Yield to uphill hikers and keep noise levels reasonable

Protecting Historical Features

The arch represents irreplaceable historical infrastructure that deserves special care:

• Do not climb, stand, or walk on any part of the arch structure
• Avoid touching the stonework, as oils from hands can accelerate deterioration
• Report any signs of vandalism or structural issues to park authorities

Reporting Trail Issues

If you encounter problems on the trail such as fallen trees, erosion issues, or damage to the historical structure, report them to:

Buchanan State Forest Office
25185 Great Cove Road
McConnellsburg, PA 17233
Phone: (717) 485-3148

Family-Friendly Aspects

The Railroad Arch Trail makes an excellent family hiking destination with several kid-friendly features:

Kids on the Trail

The relatively short distance and minimal elevation gain make this trail manageable for children as young as 4-5 years old who are accustomed to walking. For younger children, a sturdy carrier or hiking backpack is recommended for the rockier sections.

The creek near the arch provides a wonderful spot for supervised water play during warmer months (though parents should check water levels and flow rate before allowing children in the water).

Age Group	Trail Suitability	Special Considerations	Engagement Ideas
Toddlers (1-3)	Challenging	Carrier recommended	Point out colors, animals, sounds
Young Children (4-7)	Moderate	May need breaks, assistance on rocky sections	Scavenger hunt, nature bingo, storytelling
Older Children (8-12)	Good	Can complete independently	Historical facts, photography challenge, plant identification
Teenagers (13+)	Excellent	May want more challenge	Geology exploration, historical research project, trail leadership

Educational Opportunities

This trail offers numerous teachable moments for children:

• Engineering concepts demonstrated by the arch construction
• Historical lessons about railroad development in America
• Natural science through plant and animal identification
• Geology lessons from the exposed rock formations

Consider creating a scavenger hunt for younger hikers with items to spot along the trail, such as different tree types, animal tracks, or interesting rock formations.

Safety Considerations for Young Hikers

While generally safe, parents should be aware of a few potential hazards:

• The creek area can be slippery, especially after rain
• There are some minor drop-offs near the arch viewing area
• Poison ivy can be found at various points along the trail edges

Beyond the Arch: Extended Exploration

For those with extra energy or time, the area around the Railroad Arch offers additional exploration opportunities:

Connected Trail Networks

The Railroad Arch Trail connects to the larger Buchanan State Forest trail system. Advanced hikers can continue past the arch to connect with:

• The Oregon Road Trail (moderate difficulty, 4.5 miles)
• Sideling Hill Trail (moderate to difficult, 8.2 miles)

These extensions allow for longer day hikes or even backpacking opportunities within the forest.

Connected Trail	Distance	Difficulty	Highlights	Connects To
Oregon Road Trail	4.5 miles	Moderate	Ridge views, diverse forest	Sweet Root Natural Area
Sideling Hill Trail	8.2 miles	Moderate-Difficult	Rock formations, elevation gain	Cowans Gap State Park
Tuscarora Trail	12.4 miles	Difficult	Backcountry experience, wildlife	Appalachian Trail
Dry Run Trail	2.8 miles	Easy-Moderate	Stream crossings, historical sites	Oregon Road Trail

Related Historical Sites

History enthusiasts will find several related sites within a short drive:

• Former POW Camp: Just 5 miles north of the trailhead lies the site of a former WWII prisoner of war camp that housed German POWs who worked in local agricultural operations.
• Remains of other South Pennsylvania Railroad projects, including unfinished tunnel entrances
• The Sideling Hill Picnic Area and abandoned turnpike section, which represents the later incarnation of the railroad corridor

See Also: Hike Wolf Rock & Chimney Rock Trail at Catoctin Mountain Park

Seasonal Highlights

Each season brings unique characteristics to the Railroad Arch Trail:

Season	Visual Highlights	Wildlife Activity	Trail Conditions	Visitor Experience
Spring (Apr-May)	Wildflowers, emerging foliage, clear streams	Bird migration, amphibian activity	Potentially muddy, vibrant greens	Moderate crowds, rejuvenation theme
Summer (Jun-Aug)	Full canopy, lush undergrowth	Maximum wildlife activity, insect diversity	Dry, occasional storms, some overgrowth	Busier weekends, refreshing creek access
Fall (Sep-Nov)	Peak foliage mid-October, mushrooms, berries	Migration, foraging activity	Leaf-covered but stable, cooler temps	Peak crowds during foliage, photography focus
Winter (Dec-Feb)	Snow-dusted arch, icicles, clear views	Tracks in snow, winter birds	Potentially icy, exposed rocks	Solitude, dramatic lighting, peaceful ambiance

Spring (April-May)

• Woodland wildflowers carpet the forest floor
• Migratory birds return to the forest
• Lush green foliage emerges
• Comfortable hiking temperatures in the 60s-70s°F
• Potential for muddy sections after spring rains

Summer (June-August)

• Full canopy provides ample shade
• Creek water levels typically lower, making exploration easier
• Early morning hikes recommended to avoid afternoon heat and humidity
• Rich insect life including butterflies and dragonflies
• Berry picking opportunities along sunnier sections

Fall (September-November)

• Spectacular foliage colors, typically peaking mid-October
• Clearer views through the forest as leaves fall
• Cooler, comfortable hiking temperatures
• Interesting mushroom varieties emerge
• Special light conditions for photography as sunlight filters through changing leaves

Winter (December-March)

• Potential for solitary, peaceful hiking experience
• Unique views of the arch with snow dusting
• Better visibility of geological features with understory vegetation dormant
• Ice formations along the creek and sometimes on the arch itself
• Requires additional preparation for potentially slippery conditions

Local Knowledge & Insider Tips

Photography Recommendations

For the best photographs of the arch:

• Early morning light (7-9 AM) provides dramatic side lighting on the structure
• Overcast days offer even illumination without harsh shadows
• Include a person in your shot to demonstrate the arch’s impressive scale
• Fall colors reflected in the creek create stunning foreground elements
• After light rain, the darkened stones show more detail and contrast

Best Photo Spots	Optimal Timing	Technical Tips	Subject Focus
Creek Reflection View	Morning, 7-9 AM	Wide angle lens, polarizing filter	Arch with reflection in creek
Under-Arch Perspective	Mid-day (for even light)	Ultra-wide lens, HDR technique	Stone detail, ceiling curvature
Side Profile	Late afternoon	Telephoto lens, low ISO	Highlighting structural curves
Arch in Landscape	Golden hour (sunrise/sunset)	Standard lens, tripod recommended	Context within forest setting
Historical Detail Shots	Overcast days	Macro lens, natural light	Stone cutting marks, moss patterns

Lesser-Known Features

Most visitors focus exclusively on the main arch, but knowledgeable hikers also seek out:

• The remains of a stonemason’s camp about 100 yards upstream from the arch
• Several test quarry sites in the surrounding hillsides where stone was sampled
• A small natural spring located approximately 200 yards east of the arch
• Fossil imprints in some of the creek bed stones (primarily plant fossils)

Avoiding Crowds

While not as busy as some Pennsylvania trails, the Railroad Arch can get crowded during peak times:

• Weekday visits are significantly less crowded than weekends
• Early mornings (before 10 AM) typically see the fewest visitors
• Late fall and winter visits often provide solitary experiences
• Avoid holiday weekends when parking can become severely limited

Nearby Amenities & Attractions

Camping Options

Buchanan State Forest offers several camping options for those wanting to extend their stay:

• Cowans Gap State Park (12 miles away) provides developed campgrounds with facilities
• Early backpacking campsites are available throughout Buchanan State Forest (permit required)
• Private campgrounds near Breezewood offer additional options with more amenities

Accommodation	Distance from Trailhead	Type	Amenities	Reservation Needed
Cowans Gap State Park	12 miles	Developed Campground	Restrooms, showers, picnic areas, lake	Yes, up to 11 months in advance
Buchanan State Forest Early Sites	1-5 miles	Backcountry Camping	None (true wilderness)	Permit required, no reservation
The Lodge at Blue Knob	28 miles	Resort	Full service, dining, pool	Yes
Breezewood Motels	18 miles	Hotels/Motels	Various levels, restaurants nearby	Recommended in peak season
Clear Creek State Park	38 miles	Cabins & Camping	Rustic cabins, modern campground	Yes, well in advance

Nearby Towns and Services

The closest communities offering services include:

• Fort Littleton (6 miles): Basic gas station and small convenience store
• McConnellsburg (15 miles): Full services including restaurants, groceries, and lodging
• Breezewood (18 miles): Known as the “Town of Motels,” offers numerous dining and accommodation options

Additional Outdoor Activities

The surrounding region offers numerous complementary outdoor experiences:

• Mountain biking on designated trails within Buchanan State Forest
• Fishing in nearby Cowans Gap Lake and Aughwick Creek
• Hunting in designated areas during appropriate seasons (check regulations)
• Scenic driving along the Pennsylvania ridges and valleys

Dog-Friendly Considerations

The Railroad Arch Trail is a dog-friendly trail with a few important considerations:

Pet Regulations

Dogs are welcome on the Railroad Arch Trail but must be:

• Kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times
• Under control and not allowed to disturb wildlife or other hikers
• Clean up after with all waste packed out and disposed of properly

Trail Suitability for Dogs

Most dogs handle this trail well, but be aware of:

• Rocky sections that may be rough on sensitive paw pads
• Limited shade on portions of the trail during midday hours
• The creek provides a water source, but bring your own to be safe
• Potential for encountering wildlife that might excite or frighten some dogs

Dog Size/Type	Trail Suitability	Special Considerations	Recommended Items
Small Breeds (<20 lbs)	Moderate	May need carrying on rocky sections	Portable water bowl, carrier for difficult terrain
Medium Breeds (20-50 lbs)	Good	Watch for fatigue on hot days	Collapsible water bowl, cooling vest in summer
Large Breeds (>50 lbs)	Excellent	Monitor for overheating in summer	Extra water, paw protection for rocky sections
Senior Dogs	Moderate	Take frequent breaks, watch for joint strain	First aid items, pet-safe pain relief if needed
Puppies (<1 year)	Moderate	Limited distance, frequent breaks	Training treats, extra patience

Community Connection

The Railroad Arch is maintained through the efforts of both forest officials and dedicated volunteers.

Volunteer Opportunities

Those interested in helping preserve this historical treasure can:

• Join scheduled trail maintenance days (typically held monthly during the hiking season)
• Participate in the “Adopt a Trail” program through Buchanan State Forest
• Contribute to historical documentation projects recording the arch’s condition over time
• Participate in seasonal cleanup events organized by local hiking groups

Local Organizations

Several organizations work to support and preserve the Railroad Arch:

• Friends of Buchanan State Forest
• Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation
• Appalachian Trail Conservancy (although not directly on the AT, they support regional trail networks)
• South Penn Railroad Historical Society

Organization	Focus	Volunteer Opportunities	How to Contact
Friends of Buchanan State Forest	Trail maintenance, preservation	Monthly work days, visitor education	friendsofbuchanan.org
PA Parks & Forests Foundation	Advocacy, fundraising	Special events, administrative support	paparksandforests.org
South Penn Railroad Historical Society	Documentation, research	Archives, guided tours, historical markers	southpennrr.org
Fulton County Historical Society	Local history preservation	Research, educational programs	fultonhistory.org

Why the Railroad Arch Trail Matters?

The Railroad Arch Trail represents more than just a pleasant walk in the woods—it’s a living connection to Pennsylvania’s industrial past. This remarkably preserved structure stands as a testament to the engineering ambition of the 19th century and the unexpected ways human projects interact with the natural world.

For hikers, the trail offers the perfect combination of accessibility and reward. The relatively short, easy hike leads to a truly impressive destination without requiring advanced skills or equipment. It’s an ideal introduction to hiking for beginners while still offering enough interest for experienced outdoor enthusiasts.

From an ecological perspective, the area surrounding the arch demonstrates the forest’s resilience and ability to reclaim human-altered landscapes. What was once a construction site has returned to nature, with only the durable stone arch remaining as evidence of past industrial ambitions.

Whether you come for the history, the photography opportunities, or simply a pleasant walk through beautiful Pennsylvania woodlands, the Railroad Arch Trail delivers a memorable experience. As you stand before the impressive stone structure, take a moment to appreciate both the human ingenuity that created it and the natural beauty that now embraces it.

See Also: Overlook Trail at Pinnacle Rock State Park in West Virginia

FAQs

1. How long is the Railroad Arch Trail in Buchanan State Forest?

The trail is approximately 0.75 miles round trip, making it a short and easy hike.

2. Where is the trailhead located?

The trailhead is off Oregon Road in Buchanan State Forest, about 1.3 miles from PA 915/N. Valley Road.

3. Is there parking available at the trailhead?

Yes, a small parking area near the trailhead accommodates approximately six cars.

4. Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are permitted but must be controlled and attended at all times.

5. What can I expect to see on the trail?

Hikers will encounter a historic stone aqueduct from the 1880s, built for the unfinished South Pennsylvania Railroad project.

Conclusion

The railroad-arch-trail-in-buchanan-state-forest is a perfect mix of history and nature. This short, easy trail takes you to a well-preserved stone aqueduct from the 1880s. The quiet forest, gentle path, and fascinating past make it a great spot for a peaceful hike. Whether you love history or just want a relaxing walk, this trail offers a unique and rewarding experience.

Visiting the railroad-arch-trail-in-buchanan-state-forest is like stepping into the past. The old railroad structure stands strong, surrounded by beautiful trees and wildlife. It’s a great place for a quick outdoor adventure with family, friends, or even a dog. If you’re in Pennsylvania and looking for a hidden gem, this trail is worth the trip.

Have you hiked the Railroad Arch Trail? Share your experiences and photos in the comments below!