Sideling Hill Tunnel, Pa Turnpike
Bedford, PA, 15522 US / PA
Location Description
This 13 mile abandoned stretch of the PA Turnpike, created in 1968, is the result of construction to improve the turnpike with the road now going over the mountains instead of through them. Rerouting occurred through parts of Bedford & Fulton counties. With its apocalyptic look, the abandoned stretch was prominently featured in the 2009 film THE ROAD. Sideling Hill Tunnel (6,782 feet) and Rays Hill Tunnel (3,532 feet) and the eleven miles between them served as a crucial link from the east to the west, connecting Harrisburg and points east to Pittsburgh and points west. The tunnels were closed in 1968 due to their inability (only two lanes) to handle traffic congestion. After its closure in 1968, the site served as a tactical and firearms training site for state police and the Commissioner's maintenance crews. Also, several research and development institutions conducted studies in the region. In 2001 Southern Alleghenies Conservancy (SAC) acquired the property for developing a non-motorized recreational trail. The picturesque highway is situated in secluded but accessible portions of Bedford and Fulton Counties & is home to a diverse, large population of wildlife. To date, redevelopment remains incomplete.
Location Category
- ROADS / HIGHWAYS - [general]
- ROADS / HIGHWAYS - Mountain Roads
- TRAINS / RAILROADS - Bridges / Tunnels
