Great Allegheny Passage: Confluence to Fort Hill
Great Allegheny Passage: Confluence to Fort Hill
4.6
(4094)
10,019
hikers
03:22
12.8km
140m
Hiking
Embark on a moderate hiking adventure along the Great Allegheny Passage, covering 7.9 miles (12.8 km) from Confluence to Fort Hill. This section of the trail offers a pleasant journey with 455 feet (139 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 21 minutes to complete. You will…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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12.8 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
11.9 km
893 m
Surfaces
10.5 km
2.00 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (480 m)
Lowest point (400 m)
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Friday 29 May
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This route was planned by komoot.
The average hiking time for this 12.75 km (7.9 mi) section is approximately 3 hours and 21 minutes. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
This section of the Great Allegheny Passage is largely flat and considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for most hikers. The trail surface is primarily crushed limestone, with some paved sections. There are no technical challenges or steep elevation changes. You'll experience a gentle average downslope of 0.5-2% when traveling from Rockwood towards Confluence.
You can find parking at both ends of this section. Confluence is a designated 'trail town' with amenities, and Fort Hill also serves as an access point offering parking for hikers.
Yes, the Great Allegheny Passage is generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail for everyone.
The trail is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. The path is often canopied by trees, providing ample shade, which makes it a comfortable option even during warmer summer months.
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike this section of the Great Allegheny Passage.
A highlight of this section is the Pinkerton Tunnel, which is 849 feet long. You'll also cross several picturesque bridges over the Casselman River, including the 'spectacular selfie-worthy' Pinkerton Bridges. The trail also offers consistent glimpses of the Casselman and Youghiogheny Rivers, peaceful forest views, and vibrant rock formations.
Yes, for those who prefer, or if the tunnel is closed, there is a 1.2-mile bypass around the mountain that offers an alternative route around the Pinkerton Tunnel.
Yes, this route is part of the larger Great Allegheny Passage and also intersects with the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (left bank) and BicyclePA Route S.
This section from Confluence to Fort Hill is a point-to-point hike. You would need to arrange transportation for a return trip or plan to hike it as an out-and-back if you wish to return to your starting point.
The town of Confluence, at one end of this section, is a 'trail town' and provides amenities such as dining options and has a charming town square. Fort Hill serves primarily as an access point with parking.