Pennsylvania Trail of the Year

Pennsylvania is a leader in trail development, providing its citizens and visitors with more than 11,000 miles of trails across the commonwealth to enjoy, from gentle pathways threading through miles of preserved greenways, to remote, rugged trails scaling the state’s magnificent mountains.

Each year, the Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee designates a Trail of the Year to help build enthusiasm and support for both large and small trails, and raise public awareness about the value of Pennsylvania’s trail network.

In honor of the achievement, the committee and DCNR produce a poster for statewide distribution and plan a public celebration for the recognized trail.

2023 Trail of the Year: Mount Jewett To Kinzua Bridge Trail

The Mount Jewett to Kinzua Bridge Trail is a 7.8-mile-long section of the larger Knox and Kane Rail Trail in McKean County.

The former rail line now provides a level trail for walking, jogging, biking, and horseback riding. In winter months, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are also popular.

The Mount Jewett to Kinzua Bridge Trail Club, the award recipient, works in partnership with the Knox and Kane Rail Trail and Kinzua Bridge State Park.

The state park uses the Mount Jewett to Kinzua Bridge Trail’s section of trail for nature walks and naturalist events throughout the year.

The trail highlights the environmental and historical aspects of the area in a series of interpretive signs placed along the 7.8 miles.

The trail offers amenities, such as pavilions, focused artwork, railroad trestles, and dining options within close proximity of the rail trail.

The Mount Jewett to Kinzua Bridge Trail is also important to the community, which has used the trail for events like senior citizen rides, special hikes, bike races, and marathons.

Additional information is available in the 2023 Trail of the Year news release.