Description

The Allegheny Front Trail is one of the most epic undertakings available to runners in central PA.

Nearly 42-miles in length, the AFT circles Black Moshannon State Park along beautiful singletrack and through a diversity of ecosystems.

The trail includes several stunning views, dark stands of red spruce and hemlock, plus a stunning selection of summer flowers and fungi.

[PA Hikes](https://pahikes.com/blogs/allegheny-front-trail) even describes it as a "great trail for those new to backpacking," though its scenic mountain streams and unique flora make it an excellent all-day trail run. Completed in the 1990s as a collaboration between numerous clubs and trail associations, the trail has changed very little since its inception.

Several pristine streams and small brooks host trout, while boardwalks help to traverse some of the lower wetlands.

Backpackers usually aim to complete the trail in under a week, though some of the fastest recorded times by runners on [FKT.com](https://fastestknowntime.com/route/allegheny-front-trail-pa) note a few 7 and 8-hour finishes as of 2021. Importantly for runners, there is plenty of water along the trail that you could treat or filter as you go.

Those same water sources also leave portions of the trail muddy, and many of the trail reports suggest you will get your feet wet.

As a trail runner, pick a shoe you are comfortable with in wet conditions, then pair them with socks that dry out quickly.

Trekking poles are not necessary, and cell reception is available through most of the circuit. Seen here, the main trailhead for the AFT is off of Rattlesnake Pike (PA-504), just a few minutes east of the beach at Black Moshannon State Park.

Other popular access points include Beaver Road to the south, Black Moshannon Road to the west, and Myers Run Road to the north.

Shirks Road also offers several car camping opportunities plus nearby access to the trail.

Restrooms and water are available within the park. For a shorter run around the lake, the classic [Black Mo Long Run](https://fatmap.com/routeid/2808985/black-moshannon-long-run-tour) comes highly recommended by locals.

If you're just visiting to hike, the [Bog Trail](https://fatmap.com/routeid/2808953/black-moshannon-bog-trail) is one of the park favorites. Sources: https://www.kta-hike.org/allegheny-front https://pahikes.com/blogs/allegheny-front-trail https://fastestknowntime.com/route/allegheny-front-trail-pa