Laurel Highlands Historical Village Inc Hiking Trails
Honan Ave. Community Hiking & Biking Trail
The trail starts off the River Walk trail in Cambria City, Johnstown, heading North on Honan Ave. Along the 3 mile trail you will be able to view a huge active Beaver dam, small waterfalls and at the end of trail a huge waterfall. The trail has educational interpretive signs along the trail to teach students about the wildlife in this region. We also have provided benches along the trail for those seeking a break, and a quick rest stop. Then the trail splits in two parts, one part staying on the western side of the dam, named eagle trail where Bald Eagles can be seen. To reach the Joseph P Whipey trail, you cross the bridge turn left on road and enter at midpoint or by pavilion.
Joseph P. Whipey Trail
1.5 mile trail that runs along the length of the dam but through the wood line. The trail starts by the pavilion on the eastern flank of the dam. The 1st part of trail is easy walking but the 2nd half is rather steep as the trail heads up to the overlook where hikers can view the whole reservoir below. The trail runs thru the LHHV Forest
Eagle Trail
The Eagle trail so named because of the eagles that often can be seen perched along the trail in the higher trees. The trail starts behind the dam along Hunt road, it then runs behind the dam coming out on waterfall road from their trail follows the road along the dam. The trail is 1.75 miles long, and is an easy walk with some slight hills. Along the trail you can see waterfalls, old historical foundations, many low land and wetland birds, and also mammals native to region.
The LHHV Forest
The LHHV Experimental Forest, located 3 miles north of Johnstown, in Middle & East Taylor townships, offers quiet refuge to all who seek the natural enchantment of a forest experience. Tucked away in the heart of the Hinckston Run Dam, the Forest is bordered on its Western ridge boundaries by the Hinckston Dam Wildlife Management Area. The LHHV Forest is located on property that surrounds Hinckston Reservoir. Our hiking trails encompass the wooded area itself. The trail as listed above has stops for resting and watching the area wildlife. We have local students who utilize the Forest Trail as an outside classroom.
LHHV Mountain
Just off of Honan Ave and River Walk trail is the new LHHV Mountain Trail. Here hiking trails will weave in and out of fields, extending up a slight slope reaching the summit. On the summit we have an over look, with views of Stone Bridge, Johnstown, Cambria City and West End. Keeping it as simple as possible, the trail allows everyone to not only view native wildlife but learn about plants, wildlife, and the whole eco system. UPJ Geology Club, will be providing outdoor classes on Geology of region, Space, Weather, and conservation. Also on location will be various ethnic communities show casing their heritage. Parking for Honan Ave Community Hiking and Biking trail is next to the river, signs point the way. Please do not park near gate as this is a turnaround for those living there.
