** UPDATE NOW OPEN!
The Great Allegheny Passage, a renowned recreational trail connecting Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cumberland, Maryland, has experienced temporary closures in two sections due to severe weather damage caused by an F2 tornado that struck the region on the morning of August 26th. The affected areas include the segment between Connellsville and Ohiopyle, as well as the trail section between Pinkerton Tunnel and Markleton in Somerset County.
The tornado, which descended with unexpected force, wreaked havoc by toppling hundreds of trees along these segments of The Great Allegheny Passage. The safety of trail users is of utmost importance, and therefore, the decision has been made to temporarily close these sections to the public.
Dedicated crews are working tirelessly to clear the debris and make the trail safe for use once again. However, due to the extensive damage caused, the closures are expected to last for several days as the cleanup and restoration efforts continue.
Trail users are advised to exercise caution and avoid venturing into the closed areas during this time. The terrain may still pose risks, and entering these sections is strongly discouraged until the all-clear signal is given by the trail management team.
For those affected by the closures, alternative arrangements have been put in place. Individuals stranded in Ohiopyle can find assistance at Wilderness Voyagers, while those in Confluence can seek support from Tissue Farm or Confluence Cyclery to arrange portage around the closed trail sections.