| The Ridgway-Clearfield branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad was built in 1885. The trains traveled from Ridgway, through Carman, Croyland, Blue Rock, Carrier, Brockwayville (now Brockway), Lanes Mills, and McMinn's Summit to Falls Creek. The last train ran on November 2, 1968 and the tracks were removed in 1972. In 1992, the abandoned railway was turned into the Clarion/Little Toby Trail. |
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The Clarion/Little Toby Trail is an 18-mile trail that runs from Ridgway to Brockway, Pennsylvania and primarily serves the counties of Elk, Jefferson and Clearfield. The trail traverses a great deal of PA Game Commission land and the entire distance can be traveled without crossing a highway. There is a 1.8 mile section of "rails with trails" in the center portion of the trail from Tapawingo to the mouth of Toby Creek, so users should use caution when trains pass through. The trail is open to the public for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing as well as for other non-motorized use. |
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The trail follows along the Clarion River from Ridgway to the ghost town of Carman and then follows along the Little Toby Creek from Carman to Brockway. Both water ways are trout streams that prove bountiful for avid fisherman. |
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- The Clarion River has been designated as a "Wild and Scenic River" and provides you with the opportunity to experience the beauty and excitement of the trail in many different ways. Trail users will find much wildlife roaming about, such as deer, wild turkeys, herons, eagles, and much more. You never know what you might find lurking around the corner.
- Since the trail is located near the Allegheny National Forest, trail users will find themselves surrounded by a variety of trees that provide for a nice gentle breeze and shelter from the sun on hot, summer days.
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Click here for a map of the trail which highlights points of interest along the way! At the ghost town of Blue Rock, you will find a swinging bridge that crosses Toby Creek. Trail users of all ages will find themselves drawn to this unique experience. Bikers will be glad to know that "YES" you can ride across the bridge.
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In order to keep the trail operational for years to come, we ask that trail users abide by the following rules:
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- Motorized vehicles are prohibited
- Horses are prohibited
- Pets must be on a short leash
- Camping or camp fires are prohibited
- Respect landowner privacy
- Respect our wildlife
- Please don't litter: Pack it in - Pack it out
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No matter the season, there is always a reason to spend time on the Clarion/Little Toby Rails to Trails. Whether it be
an hour, an afternoon or an entire day, be sure to make the Clarion/Little Toby Trail a stop on your next trip to this beautiful area of North Central Pennsylvania. One experience on our trail will have you coming back for more!
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