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Rails-to-Trails Lower Trail

By Michael Hermann; Lizard Tracks, Centre Daily Times, Sept, 1998

The Lower Trail is an 11 mile recreational path built along a converted railroad bed. It follows the Frankstown Branch of the Juniata River connecting the towns of Alexandria and Williamsburg. The Lower Trail (pronounced like "flower") is a public use path, free of charge, open for walking, bicycling, horseback riding and other non-motorized transportation. It is part of Rails-To-Trails and the Path of Progress, offering historical preservation combined with modern recreational advantages.

The Lower Trail is full of history and complimented by wonderful views in every season. One of the special benefits of exploring a Rail Trail is the unique perspective it offers. The path follows the bends in the river as it winds through the valley. Steep hillsides lead to high ridges which are a haven for wildlife of all types.

The far bank has no trail or roadside to disrupt the lifestyles of the native animals. Deer are a common sight, and the occasional fox or raccoon may be catching a drink on the banks. Several local bird watching clubs enjoy the diversity of this trail. You can spot many species of birds in this area.

Canoeists and kayakers quietly drift by enjoying the peaceful current. Bicyclists enjoy this flat path, you may see a bicycle built for two or a family pulling the kids in trailers. In winter cross country skiers take to the trail, and horseback riders use it year round.
Almost 200 years ago this trail was used as a canal path. The Frankstown Branch was part of a canal transportation system and remnants of the old canal locks still remain.

By the early 1900's the canal system was replaced by the steam locomotive. The Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR) operated on this path and helped the region grow and prosper. The remains of an iron ore smelting furnace, and its community, still exist at Mt. Etna one half mile from the Rail Trail. Mt. Etna is considered the midpoint of the Lower Trail.

There are an estimated 9000 miles of abandoned railroads in Pennsylvania. Rails-To-Trails recognizes the opportunity to revitalize these corridors as living museums of our national heritage. Rail Trails are often flat, wide and smooth. These are perfect for leisurely bike rides and easy walks.

The historical advantages are numerous. Old buildings, canal lock remnants and old railroad bridges offer exciting glimpses of area history. The natural beauty of a quiet river winding through Pennsylvania mountains provides a perfect afternoon of recreation.
If you enjoy flea markets, this path runs behind the Water Street Flea Market, which is often a busy place on sunny weekends.
Driving from State College to the trailhead at Water Street takes about 30 minutes. The trail itself is 11 miles long. At any point you can simply turn around if you feel the distance is too much. A detailed map of the Lower Trail is available, at no charge, from State College area bicycle shops or by contacting Rails-To-Trails of Central Pennsylvania; PO Box 592, Hollidaysburg, PA, 16648.

The Lower Trail is a wonderful path for the young and old alike. Generous donations to the Lower Trail have provided benches and picnic tables along the trail. This is one of the nicest Rail Trails in the country and we are fortunate to live so close to it.

Directions from State College: Rt. 45 West to Spruce Creek. Continue to Rt. 22 at Water Street. Turn left on Rt. 22 East and go past the flea market. Turn left to Alexandria on State Road 4014. The Rails-To-Trails parking lot is on the right. You can also explore from the Williamsburg trailhead, about 10 miles west: take Rt. 22 West to Rt. 866 (left) to Williamsburg.

Michael Hermann is the founder of Purple Lizard Maps and has been exploring Centre County since 1979.

Read more about this area in Jean Aron's book The Short Hiker - Small Green Circles.