Path of the Flood Trail

A beautifully peaceful trail, the four mile Path of the Flood Trail is a memorial to the 2200 people who died in 1889, when the South Fork Dam failed and flooded the town of Johnstown. In addition to being incredibly scenic, this trail is also thought-provoking and educational, and will give you and Fido a truly memorable walk.

Beginning at the Johnstown Flood Museum, the trail follows the same route that the floodwaters took, with several memorial markers along the way. In addition to learning more about this historic event, you and Fido will also see Staple Bend Tunnel, which is considered to be the oldest railroad tunnel in America, and is also the starting point for this trail. There is a large parking lot at this trailhead, as well as an information kiosk.

When it comes to the scenery that you and your pooch will see, the Path of the Flood Trail runs through the lush Little Conemaugh River Valley. This area has been relatively untouched for over a hundred years, meaning that it is home to everything from large mature trees that provided shady canopies to expansive pockets of colorful wildflowers, especially in the spring and summer months. There is also an active railway line that runs through the valley, and the benches placed along the trail are the pawfect place for you and Fido to watch the trains meandering through the greenery below.

The surface of this trail is most ballast, and although the trail is not too long, there are a few steep inclines, making it quite a challenging walk. Make sure that you bring along some drinking water for both yourself and Fido, as well as a lead and doggie bags for your pooch.

The Path of the Flood Trail is one that is both physically and intellectually stimulating, featuring a fascinating mixture of both natural beauty and history.