Sandy Creek Rail Trail in Franklin, Pennsylvania

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Sandy Creek Rail Trail

Franklin, Pennsylvania

This rail trail is located near Franklin, Pennsylvania south of Erie.



Sandy Creek Trail is 20 km (12 miles) and goes from Van to near Franklin. The trail is paved with asphalt and is smooth.



The area is undeveloped and remote. There are no commercial establishments along the trail. Make sure that you are prepared for any breakdown. In season, have bug repellent with you and lots of water. The trail passes through hardwood forests and for the most part, is well shaded.



There is a very LONG tunnel and although there are reflectors on the floor and sides, having a flashlight might be a good idea. I did it without a flashlight but went very slow!



There are a few benches but no toilets or water.



It passes through spectacular scenery, crossing over 7 very high bridges and through one very long tunnel.



All of the bridges over Sandy Creek and the Allegheny River offer spectacular views. The best and highest is the Belmar bridge at 460 metres (1385 feet)



Trailheads:



Van: Follow SR 322 EAST to VAN and turn right at the bottom of a long hill on to Tarklin Hill Road for about 0.7 km. GPS: 41.314485 79.658631. There is nothing here except a parking lot and the beginning of the trail. About .5 km along the trail there is a newly built shelter



Rockland Road: At the intersection of 322 and 257 turn on to Rockland Road for about 5 km (3 miles) to the access road on the right. GPS 41.317069 79.724778. Once again nothing here except a parking lot



Belmar 5 km south of Franklin via SR 8, Pone Lane and Belmar Road. GPS 41.314485 79.658631.



Fishermans Cove south of Franklin GPS 41.326333 79.848863. Nothing here except parking

A very nice Rail Trail

More Photos below .....

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