Cross Country Ski Historic Allegheny Portage Railroad National Park

LOCATION: The Allegheny Portage Railroad Picnic Area. Old route 22 (See map below in Photos) GPS 40.458946106106644, -78.55881484210731.
START TIME: Saturday 31 January, 2026. Departing parking lot promptly at 9:30 AM – Please arrive ½ hr early to prepare; check in
DISTANCE: Approx 4 Miles
DURATION: 2 hours to 3 hours
SPEED: Slow to moderate pace
DIFFICULTY: This is considered an intermediate level trail
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate: Participants should be adept at: ascending and descending inclines; recovering from falls; removing and remounting skis on trail; traversing around or crossing over fallen limbs and trees; Novice skiers may wish remain in easier loops, unfortunately no guide will accommodate

TRAIL DESCRIPTION: This is a triple figure eight loop trail allowing two points for individuals, or groups, to depart and return, if necessary. (see trail maps below) These trails are not groomed but follow established tracks from regular users. The route takes us through both open fields and beautiful enclosed wooded spaces, providing dramatic spatial experiences, scattered wildlife tracks and colorful winter scrub

TRAIL LOOP 1: This loop follows the parks established pathways and railroad trace and is considered the easiest. Novice skiers may choose to remain in this area for several loops or to explore adjoining side trails. There are, however, a few short inclines to negotiate. (but can easily be walked) This area is commonly traveled by the public, so help may be found more readily, if needed. From most any point in this area, it would be easy to walk back to the parking lot, if necessary. The full group will travel together on Loop 1 for about a half hour

TRAIL LOOP 2: This route follows the parks established “nature trail” and requires skill in ascending and descending moderate inclines. At the apex, should you decide not to proceed to Loop 3, it is recommended that you buddy-up or travel back with a group.

TRAIL LOOP 3: This route is more level but will require endurance to complete the full trail once started. There are several fallen trees on the trail, but these are negotiable

WEATHER: as of this writing, the forecast is anticipated to be between 10 to 18 degrees. Please dress appropriately. Follow the weather forecast; Monitor this meet-up site for cancelations.

RECOMMENDATIONS: Dress to sweat in frigid temperatures; multiple breathable layers; wool hat; mittens; wool socks; hand warmers; energy snacks; daypack to shed or carry additional layers, water bottle, first aid kit.

REQUIRED: "WATER"; Carry your own water; Skis and equipment should be in well maintained operating condition; good physical fitness.

DISCLAIMERS: There is no ski patrol. There is no helicopter or snowmobile recovery team. If you are injured, it could be hours before you are retrieved by emergency services. This is not deep wilderness, and cross country skiing is not dangerous, but you can easily sprain and ankle or pull a muscle. If you feel fatigued, do not proceed to the longer trail loops. Be prepared to walk out of the woods, if necessary. If you are inexperienced, invite a guest to ski with you. If you decide to return to the parking area, ask if others wish to join you as a group. Buddy up for safety. Notify the group leader that you are departing.

REWARDS: If you are a novice, you may learn techniques by observing or discussing with more experienced skiers; Group skiing makes well packed tracks which are easier to glide on. Cross country skiing is hard work but takes you on a healthy journey through a stunning winter wonderland not often experienced by others. Skiing in a group is fun and motivating.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
Sweepers: Skiers at the end of the line who help others; Sweepers can change often. The more sweepers, the shorter the shifts.
Nature Gurus: Skiers willing to identify animal tracks, vegetation, forest features to those interested.
Novice Guides: Experienced skiers willing to remain in loops 1 & 2 to guide and assist novice skiers

TAILGATE: Bring hot chocolate, warm beverages and snacks to share in parking area at completion of adventure. Follow up rehydration and sustenance restoration to take place at PJ’s Pub