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Posted in Pennsylvania Hiking, Nature October 25, 2016 by Beth Price-Williams

Take A Hike Back In Time Along This Ghost Town Trail In Pennsylvania

Not all of Pennsylvania’s rich history sits in museums for future generations. Embark on this ghost town trail in Pennsylvania that will lead you past the remnants of former coal towns that played a prominent role in the development of Western Pennsylvania.

The Ghost Town Trail, which winds past the remnants of former coal mining towns along the path of the former Ebensburg and Blacklick Railroad, stretches 36 miles through Indiana and Cambria Counties.

Begin your hike at one of the eight trail heads, such as Saylor Park in Blairsville, Twin Rocks in Nanty Glo, or in Ebensburg.

A National Recreation Trail, the Ghost Town Trail features three separate sections - Blacktown-Dilltown, Dilltown-Nanty Glo, and Nanty Glo-Ebensburg - making it easy to hike the whole 36 miles or only a desired section.

Informational markers are posted at points along the trail, providing a historical perspective for hikers.

Pass by the remnants of the largest of the former coal mining towns. The town of Wehrum once boasted more than 200 homes, a bank, a hotel, and a jail before it was abandoned in the 1930s.

Pay tribute to the miners of the Wehrum Mines at the Coal Miners Memorial.

Cross over picturesque foot bridges as you pass through the formerly vibrant towns of Armerford, Bracken, Webster, and Claghorn.

Snap photos of the historical remnants along the way, such as the preserved Eliza Furnace in Vintondale. The now defunct furnace, on the National Register of Historic Places, was in service from 1846 through 1849.

Stop for a break and soak up the nature and wildlife - from chipmunks to deer - from a cozy rest area (pictured below).

Stroll across a footbridge, stopping for a moment to imagine the past as you view the breathtaking fall foliage surrounding you.

The footbridge replaces The Amerford Bridge, a railroad crossing that was constructed in 1903.

Glance around as you hike the Ghost Town Trail for you never know what you're going to discover - like the Fountains of Vintondale pictured below.

Discover the past as you embark on this ghost town trail in Pennsylvania then hit the road on this haunting road trip that will take you through some of the state’s eeriest ghost towns. Learn more about the Ghost Town Trail, and find a detailed map and a guide to trail heads, by clicking here.