There’s A Hike In Pennsylvania That Leads You Straight To Abandoned Cement Kilns

Abandoned places in Pennsylvania often give us unique glimpses into the past - whether we stumble upon the remains of a former POW Camp in Michaux State Forest or the remnants of a former factory at Dead Man's Hollow Conservation Area. If you're on the hunt for a fascinating trail in Pennsylvania that's brimming with local history, embark on the Ironton Rail Trail.

Set off on an invigorating hike along the Ironton Rail Trail, a 9.2-mile trail that's predominately paved. However, for just over a mile, you'll walk on packed gravel.

The handicap-accessible trail, which is rated easy, is popular with hikers of all ages and all skill levels.

Don't forget your camera, because you'll have plenty to see, including a block phone. The block phone, at mile marker 99.6, is a phone booth made from cement. It once allowed the railroads to transition from telegraphs to the telephone.

You'll also pass a restored train car, Caboose No. 6, that dates back to 1924, but it was used by the Ironton Railroad from 1953 to 1966. The caboose is located at the trailhead at Chestnut Street.

The rail-trail is also home to a series of nine, 60-foot tall, cement kilns that were once used by the Coplay Cement Company. You can learn more about the kilns' history on the nearby marker.

You'll discover the remnants of an abandoned cement factory and a replica of a handcar once used on the railroad. (You'll find the handcar at the trailhead at Portland Street.)

You can pick up the rail trail, which meanders from Whitehall Township to North Whitehall Township, at several different trailheads. That means you can hike some or all of the trail.

Click here for the official website of Ironton Rail Trail. Or, go here for Facebook.

Do you have a favorite trail in Pennsylvania that leads to ruins or historical sites? Let us know in the comments. For another picturesque hike, go on the three-mile North Warwick Loop Trail in Pottstown.