Gallitzin Tunnels Park & Museum

Learn More About Gallitzin Tunnels Park & Museum

The extremely high grade presented the final obstacle in conquering the Allegheny Mountains, making it necessary to build tunnels as early as 1850. The New Portage Tunnel was completed in 1854 at an elevation of 2,167 feet, and was traditionally (and still is) used primarily for eastbound traffic. The Allegheny Tunnel, at 3,605 feet in length, was completed that same year.

The third tunnel, known as the Gallitzin Tunnel, was completed in 1904 and removed from service when the Allegheny Tunnel was expanded to two tracks in 1995. The Tunnels were so significant to the transportation system that they were guarded during the war years.

Still in use today, you can feel the awesome power of trains as they pass through the tunnels daily.