Hillside Nature Trail

Raystown Lake

Hillside Nature Trail begins at the Seven Points Visitor Center, winds past the amphitheater, and continues as a loop through the woods that returns to the Visitor Center. The trail is approximately 1 mile in length and provides an opportunity to view some of Pennsylvania's most sweetly singing songbirds as well as an aesthetically unparalleled view of the Seven Points Bay.

Since its creation, Hillside Nature Trail has been short trail confined to the wooded area adjacent to the Amphitheater.  After opening of the Visitor Center, members of the Pennsylvania Conservation Corps constructed a trail extension and habitat area  that connects the Visitor Center to the wooded trail area. Design and habitat improvements are being coordinated by the Raystown staff with assistance from the Juniata College and the Altoona Audubon Society.

Natural openings are used to improve habitat by adding artificial nesting structures for species such as squirrels, bats, owls, and blue birds. Natural tree species have been planted to supplement the existing habitat, as well as adding brush piles adjacent to the trail using materials cleared from the trail area.

Directions:

Pittsburgh: Route 22 east to Huntingdon, then Rt. 26 South to Raystown Lake. Watch for Lake Access signs (brown park signs) for specific lake areas.

Philadelphia: PA turnpike to Breezewood (exit 12), Rt. 30 West to Rt. 26 North to Raystown Lake. Watch for Lake Access signs (brown park signs) for specific lake areas.

State College: From I-80, Rt. 26 South, through State College, through Huntingdon, to Raystown Lake. Watch for Lake Access signs (brown park signs) for specific lake areas.

Harrisburg: Take Rt22/522 West to Huntingdon, Rt. 26 S. to Raystown Lake. Watch for Lake Access signs (brown park signs) for specific lake areas.

Washington DC: Rt. 270 North to Frederick, then Rt. 70 West to Breezewood. Rt. 30 West to Rt. 26 North to Raystown Lake. Watch for Lake Access signs (brown) for specific lake areas.

Baltimore, MD: Rt. 70 West to Breezewood. Rt. 30 West to Rt. 26 North to Raystown Lake. Watch for Lake Access signs (brown) for specific lake areas.