125-mile trail highlights canal-era heritage across six counties
HESSTON, PA - History and nature lovers have a new reason to explore Central Pennsylvania with the launch of the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal Driving Trail, a self-guided, 125-mile scenic route that winds through six counties along the Juniata River. This immersive trail showcases the legacy of one of America’s most remarkable engineering feats—the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal system—and invites travelers to experience the past while enjoying the beauty of the present.
Developed through a collaboration between local visitor bureaus and historical societies, the trail features more than a dozen stops that span from the 1789 Clarks Ferry Tavern near Duncannon to the Allegheny Ridge in Portage. Along the way, visitors can explore a fascinating mix of well-preserved and timeworn canal landmarks, including:
- Historic lock keeper’s homes and canal taverns
- Canal boat ride experience
- Colorful murals and interpretive signage
- Museums filled with canal-era artifacts
- Parks and riverside walking trails
- Remnants of locks and aqueducts hidden in the landscape
Whether you're following the footsteps of 19th-century canal builders or simply soaking in the serene river valley views, every mile of the trail tells a story of ambition, ingenuity, and the communities that once thrived on canal commerce.
"The Pennsylvania Mainline Canal Driving Trail is more than a history lesson—it’s an invitation to slow down and explore," said Jenny Landis, executive director of the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau. "We designed this experience to appeal to travelers who love heritage tourism but also want to get outdoors and discover the unique natural beauty of the Juniata River corridor."
"This project is a wonderful example of how historians and destination marketers can work together across territories to create a cohesive experience for potential visitors," said Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau executive director, Matt Price.
The trail is perfect for a weekend road trip or multi-day exploration, with plenty of opportunities to hike, picnic, paddle, or just sit and imagine canal boats gliding past more than a century ago. Whether you're navigating by GPS or following printed guides available through partnering organizations, the trail encourages both planned visits and spontaneous detours.
From preserved lock structures and reconstructed canal boats to ruins that whisper stories of a bygone era, the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal Driving Trail bridges history and adventure—making it a must-see destination for curious travelers of all ages.
The tour can be found at JuniataRiverCanalTour.com.