Ghost Town Trail

Natural beauty, fascinating historical features, and length: The Ghost Town Trail blends that and throws in a bit of challenge for flavor. Named for the long-gone coal-mining communities that once dotted its right-of-way, the GTT flows past two massive iron furnaces, old coal-loading tipples, boney (coal-refuse) piles and other traces of industrial history. The Blacklick Creek valley in which it is situated is gorgeous, with mountain streams, stands of rhododendron, dozens of wildflower species and cool woodlands.

Trail Description

As it climbs the western slope of the Allegheny Front, the Ghost Town Trail totals 44 miles in length. There is a:

  •  32-mile main stem from Blacklick to Ebensburg.
  • 12-mile C&I extension includes:
  • 4-mile Rexis Branch from Vintondale to U.S. 422.
  • 8-mile Stritty's Way from U.S. 422 to Expedite Road.

The GTT has a crushed limestone surface. At Vintondale, the trail divides and follows two branches of Blacklick Creek.

Trailheads

The Dilltown Access Area of the Ghost Town Trail is located on Route 403 one mile north of Route 22. Google map directions are incorrect.

Challenges

  • Portions of the Gost Town Trail involve extensive climbs, however, all grades are less than 3%.
  • Users cross underneath US 422 to connect between the Rexis and C&I branches.
More Info
Cambria County Conservation and Recreation Authority
814-472-2110
Indiana County Parks & Trails
724-463-8636
Cambria County Conservation and Recreation Authority
Indiana County Parks
Trailhead GPS Coordinates
Comprehensive Maps
Quick Notes
  • The Ghost Town Trail totals 44 miles in length over three branches.
  • There are extensive climbs, however all grades are less than 3%.
  • This is a designated National Recreation Trail.
  • Two iron furnaces, other historical structures and numerous interpretive markers are along the trail.
  • Several exquisite bridges to check out along the way!