Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark
Watch working trains sweep around the Allegheny slope that solved a formidable railroad climb.
Artwork inspired by Charles Sheeler
Horseshoe Curve is a piece of operating railroad, not a ride or an abandoned relic. Opened in 1854, its long arc let Pennsylvania Railroad trains climb around Kittanning Point rather than confronting the Allegheny front head-on. From the central observation area, a freight train can appear to wrap around the mountain; the curve's geometry becomes most legible when the whole consist is in view.
The visitor center has interpretation and a hillside observation area reached by stairs or, when available, a funicular. Bring time and patience because trains are unscheduled. The operator controls access to the grounds, so do not assume an after-hours overlook is open. Its hillside transport has had interruptions; check current status before going if stairs would be difficult.
- Opened
- 1854
- Watch from
- Central observation level
- Train ride
- Not offered onsite
Quick guide
- Get the whole arc
- Stand back enough to see both sides of the train bending around the mountain.
- Watch the grade
- Notice how the broad sweep trades distance for a gentler climb.
Know before you go
- Get the whole arc
- Stand back enough to see both sides of the train bending around the mountain.
- Watch the grade
- Notice how the broad sweep trades distance for a gentler climb.
- Use the exhibits
- Place the curve in the story of Altoona's railroad shops and westward freight.
- Check hillside access
- Confirm the funicular or substitute before travel if the stairs are a barrier.
Good to know
The admission area closes; there is no public after-hours access. This is a place to watch trains, not board one. Pets are not admitted.
Notice these
- Operating rail landmark
- Allegheny engineering
- Full-curve train watching