The Great Allegheny Passage is one of the PA’s best bicycle trails, and one of my favorite spots along the trail is the Salisbury Viaduct in Somerset County, PA.
The Salisbury Viaduct can be found a little over two miles north of Meyersdale, not too far north of the Pennsylvania border, and is the longest trestle along the entire 150-mile rail trail.
The viaduct was built for the Western Maryland Railway’s Connellsville Extension and was opened in 1912. It was built to cross the Casselman River Valley and is 1,908 feet long and up to 101 feet above the valley floor. Sadly, during its construction, seven workers were killed in various accidents.
The viaduct was closed in 1975, and, after years of planning, it was opened as part of the Great Allegheny Passage in 1998.
Today, the Salisbury Viaduct is open for walking and bicyclists whether they are traveling the entire trail or just visiting the viaduct to enjoy its beauty and history.
Where to Park for the Salisbury Viaduct
The viaduct can be found at mile marker 33 along the Great Allegheny Passage Rail Trail, but there are also several nearby parking areas for those just checking out the viaduct.
The closest open is a dirt lot found directly adjacent to the southern end of the viaduct known as the Johnny Popper Road Access. It can be found at the following coordinates: 39.831271, -79.0399861.
This lot is big enough that you shouldn’t ever have trouble finding parking and is mere steps from the viaduct.
Those looking for other options may want to consider parking at the historic Meyersdale Train Station and walking or biking the 1.8-mile one-way trip to the bridge. That spot can be found at 527 Main St, Meyersdale, PA 15552.
This station is also home to the local historical society, so take a few minutes to check that out if you’re visiting when they are open.
[Click here for information on how to use coordinates to find your destination.]
Visiting the Salisbury Viaduct
Regardless of which parking area you choose, you’ll definitely know when you get to the viaduct.
This is a seriously impressive bridge and offers 360-degree views of the beautiful valley below you. However, before heading out onto the bridge, take a moment to read more about the bridge’s history at the historical markers located next to the southern end of the bridge.
This valley features some beautiful rural scenes, rolling hills, the Casselman River, and Route 219, so there’s a lot to see from here. You might even see a train pass below you if you’re lucky.
It’s worth noting that if you’re enjoying the view, make sure to stay to the side so those riding bicycles over the bridge can pass without any issues.
Walking the whole way across the bridge and back is a roughly 0.75-round trip in length, so it makes for an easy trip for those looking for a nice walk or short bike ride.
Overall, if you love great views and historic structures, the Salisbury Viaduct near Meyersdale is a great spot to visit. While most will check this out while biking the Great Allegheny Passage, the nearby parking areas make this a fun spot to check out for anyone traveling through this part of the Laurel Highlands.
Looking for more things to do nearby? Check out the Covered Bridges in Somerset County, Cole Run Falls, and the Highest Point in Pennsylvania.
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