Pennsylvania boasts four rivers with sections designated under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, and two run right through the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors region.
(Photo by Tina Eaton)
One, the extraordinary Allegheny River, begins as a mere trickle from mountain snowmelt and rain and grows into a clear and cold mountain stream, then into a monumental river that flows through western Pennsylvania’s rugged and beautiful country. In 2017, the Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers named it the state’s “River of the Year” for its biologically diverse watershed, scenic beauty, historical significance, and variety of recreational offerings.
The Allegheny River boasts hundreds of miles of water, making it easy to find your own private stretch.
This incredible natural attraction passes through the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors region twice, traveling through western Forest County in Tionesta and creating the southwestern border of Clarion County between Foxburg and East Brady. Outdoor recreation enthusiasts will want to check out the Allegheny River Water Trail, which includes a map with access sites as well as information on points of interest along the river, resident fish and wildlife species, nearby amenities, and more. The Allegheny provides abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure, and visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, tubing, swimming, photography, power boating, camping, fishing, and more as they get to know this stunning waterway.
One particularly interesting section of the river is the Allegheny Islands Wilderness, which includes seven islands totaling 368 acres in the National Wilderness Preservation System. A visit here provides a rare opportunity to explore protected groves of old-growth bottomland forest and see wildlife including herons, kingfishers, osprey, bald eagles, and several species of waterfowl. The undeveloped islands don’t have designated trails or restroom facilities, but primitive camping is permitted. Visitors to the river can also find a wide array of lodging options along the waterway.
The Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau placed a live cam at the Allegheny Grille in Foxburg, which offers a live view of the river conditions, recreation, wildlife, and more. Go to YouTube and take a look!
Learn more and find other interesting places to visit in the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors region by going to VisitPAGO.com or calling 814-849-5197.
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