The Allegheny Portage Railroad

Hollidaysburg to Johnstown, PA

In the early 1830s, the state of Pennsylvania constructed a series of canals for transporting freight across the state. For the segment over the steepest portion of the Allegheny Mountains, a series of inclined railroads were constructed, between Hollidaysburg and Johnstown. The incline rail segment opened in 1834, and was closed 20 years later when the Pennsylvania Railroad opened its main line over Horseshoe Curve.

Parts of the historic railroad have been reconstructed, and are maintained by the National Park Service as the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site. (See the link below.)

The roadside monument by US Route 22, near the visitor center in...
The roadside monument by US Route 22, near the visitor center in Gallitzin, PA. Photo by Mike Palmer, 5/1/2005.
The Skew Arch bridge, opened in 1834. The rail line passed below...
The Skew Arch bridge, opened in 1834. The rail line passed below the bridge. This is a very early example of a grade separation project! Photo by Mike Palmer, 5/1/2005.
A reconstructed segment of rail line.  Note the track is metal s...
A reconstructed segment of rail line. Note the track is metal straps on wood rails. Photo by Mike Palmer, 5/1/2005.
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