|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
![]()
Reporter |
Summary: This section of trail features a unique geologic feature called a tufa. Rainwater percolates down through decaying vegetation and forms a stream that picks up carbonic aci. The acidic water dissolves the underlying limestone which then separates out a bit farther downstream as tufa, coating everything it comes in contact with. It's like a cave stalagtite that relies on a healthy ecosystem to survive and grow. It is one of the few such formations in the country. There is also the entirety of Cedar Creek Park which has hiking, camping, fishing and boating facilities. This section of trail features two sets of mile markers. The original P&LE markers measuring rail miles to Pittsburgh and the new plastic Great Allegheny Passage merkers for trail miles to Cumberland. Trailhead: The Cedar Creek Park trailhead (mile 36.8) is just off Rt. 51 a quarter mile north of I-70 in Rostraver Township. (lat: N40 10.688 lon: W79 46.667) There are rest rooms, water fountains, camping and a snack bar in addition to access to hiking trails within the park. The Smithton trailhead (mile 39.3) is accessed just south of the I-70 exit onto Route 51. Turn left onto Rt. 981 and the parking lot is list on the East side of the bridge across the Youghiogheny River. (lat: N40 9.446 lon: W79 44.789). Thereis a porta-john available. (Lat:40.17809 Lon:-79.77772) Trail Guides for Yough River Trail - Cedar Creek Park to Smithton: The Great Allegheny Passage Companion by Bill Metzger (The Local History Company) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: Westmoreland County Parks & Recreation 724-830-3950 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Kevin Geiselman, who has posted 95 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Pennsylvania Hiking, Pennsylvania Trails, Pennsylvania Hikes, Westmoreland County Hiking, Westmoreland County Trails, Westmoreland County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||