Clarion Highlands Trail

The Clarion Highlands Trail follows an abandoned railroad corridor through a mix of public and private lands in Clarion County. Starting near Station Road outside Shippenville, the route parallels US-322 and continues northwest through State Game Lands No. 63, with multiple informal access points along the way. This moderate-to-hard trail passes through the Allegheny Plateau’s dense hardwood forest, staying relatively flat as it crosses old rail beds, stream valleys, and occasional road segments. At several points, the corridor skirts or overlaps private land—detour onto roads where required and respect posted signs. Hikers can also explore nearby connecting routes. The North Country Trail crosses US-322 just east of the corridor, and the State Game Lands 45 Rail Trail lies to the west. Although the original rail grade once linked them, the connecting section now passes through private property. To legally access the State Game Lands 45 Rail Trail, hikers must use Camp Coffman Road, US-322, and Kline Road. Conditions on the Clarion Highlands Trail vary—expect rough tread, overgrown stretches, and stream crossings that may require boot removal. Though signage is limited and there’s no potable water, this forested corridor offers a quiet, rugged experience through Pennsylvania’s backcountry.