Trails and Paths

Pennsylvania is home to thousands of miles of walking trails. And it’s home to more rail trails — railroad corridors converted for recreational use — than any other state. From scenic wilderness trails, to paved paths, to quiet country roads, there are endless opportunities for exploration. Below are a selection of trails from different areas of the state, and guidance on where to find more trails and paths in Pennsylvania.

The Montour Trail

The Montour Trail is a multi-use non-motorized recreational rail-trail near Pittsburgh, Pa. that will ultimately extend 46 miles from Moon Township near Coraopolis to Clairton. Currently, multiple sections of the trail totaling over 40 miles are completed. New sections are being added every year. Find more information.

Pittsburgh Walking Tours

The City Planning Department's Historic Review Commission has designed walking tours for three historic districts in the city.  Find more information.

Abington Trails

The Citizens' Trails Advisory Committee, of Abington Township, Montgomery County, Pa., supports a system of trails for cyclists, runners, walkers and others throughout area neighborhoods. Find more information.

The Susquehanna River Trail

This 51-mile trail extends from Sunbury to Harrisburg and includes 22 camp sites on 20 different islands designated for day use and primitive camping. The mission of the Susquehanna River Trail project is to promote environmentally responsible recreation on the Susquehanna River and its islands. Find more information.

Find Trails and Paths

ExplorePAtrails.com is an easy-to-use resource provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources that allows you to search online maps for trails, connect with other trail users, share trail descriptions and photos, and add your own trails. There are currently more than 200 trails in the database. Visit ExplorePAtrails.com.

Looking to establish a new trail or path?

Local governments or organizations interested in creating a new trail or path within state highway right of way or who need to cross a state highway will need an appropriate agreement with PennDOT.

Guidelines

Before undertaking any trail/crossing plans or construction, local governments and organizations must contact the PennDOT Bicycle & Pedestrian Coordinator under Public Forums on the Bicycle/Pedestrian Web Page or through the appropriate district office.

In the event that a local government or organization plans to have one or more trails that will cross state highways, a Shared Use Path Crossing Agreement with PennDOT is needed. This agreement will cover all crossings under the jurisdiction of the government agency or organization.

If a local government or organization plans to have one or more pedestrian-only footpaths that will cross state highways, they will need a Footpath Crossing Agreement with PennDOT, which will cover all crossings under the jurisdiction of the government agency or organization.

When a trail or footpath needs to cross above or below a state highway, a special “Trail Structure Agreement” will be needed. If a local government or organization desires to place a trail or footpath within state highway right of way, a specialized “Trail Maintenance Agreement” will be needed. For more information on specialized agreements, contact the PennDOT Bicycle & Pedestrian Coordinator in your district.

In addition, visit the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources page at http://www.explorepatrails.com/ for additional requirements.