FreeWheeling Easy Supplement

The trail network centered in Franklin that includes the Allegheny River Trail and the Samuel Justus Trail continues to grow. Sandy Creek Trail, the first leg of the trail along the Clarion Secondary line, is now open. This was once the Franklin and Clearfield RR, built in 1905-1911 for freight and passenger use. The line was phased out in the 1980s.

Beginning at Belmar on the west side of the Allegheny River, this trail runs for 8 miles across the Allegheny River and up the lovely isolated valley of East Sandy Creek to near Van. Scarcely out of the parking lot, the trail crosses the Allegheny River and the Allegheny River Trail on the spectacular 1385’ Belmar Bridge, pictured on p. 169.

East of the Allegheny, the trail starts up the East Sandy valley, zigging and zagging across East Sandy Creek. The creek is at the bottom of a 300' forested valley, and the bridges are 50' or so above the creek, providing fine views up and down the valley. Three crossings bring the trail to the tunnel through a 200’ high ridge at Deep Valley. The creek crossings continue after the tunnel – three more crossings of the East Sandy before the trail settles on the south bank, then two more bridges over tributaries.

To connect with the Allegheny River Trail, use the steps at the east end of the Belmar Bridge. There's a ramp alongside the steps so you can roll your bike instead of carrying it. After a couple of flights of stairs, you reach a dirt ramp. Follow it on down to trail level. From here it's 5 miles upstream (to the right as you face the river) to Franklin and 5 miles downstream (the other direction) to Brandon.

The Allegheny Valley Trails Association expects to extend this trail east into Clarion County and west toward PA8.

Vicinity: Directions begin headed north on PA8 from I80 toward Franklin.

Belmar trailhead (western): Just south of the airport entrance, turn east (right) on Pone Lane toward Franklin Regional High School. In 2.4 miles, at the T intersection, turn right on Belmar Rd. Follow Belmar Rd 3.6 miles to trail parking.

Rockland trailhead: In Franklin, when US62/PA8 turns left, remain on US322. Continue 7.3 miles to the third stop light of the Cranberry shopping center, where PA257 goes left. Turn right here on Rockland Rd Go 2.4 miles south on Rockland Rd. Just after crossing over the trail, turn right down an access road to trailhead parking.

Van trailhead (eastern): In Franklin, when US62/PA8 turns left, remain on US322. Continue 11.2 miles to the small village of Van. Turn right on Tarklin Hill Rd and go 0.4 mile to trailhead parking.

None along the trail. Most services in Franklin and Cranberry.

USGS Topographic maps: Kennerdell, Cranberry