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.
All Trails/Uday Renduchintala
The handicap-accessible trail, which is rated easy, is popular with hikers of all ages and all skill levels.
All Trails/Crissy Swavely
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.
All Trails/Crissy Swavely
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.
Ironton Rail Trail

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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.
All Trails/Dave Campion
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.)
All Trails/Yi Chen
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.
Ironton Rail Trail
Click here for the official website of Ironton Rail Trail. Or, go here for Facebook.
All Trails/Crissy Swavely

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.

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