Top Ten Summer Activities in The Alleghenies

ALTOONA, Pa., May 12 /PRNewswire/ -- From outdoor recreation (cycling, boating, fishing, hiking, nature viewing, etc.) to history and heritage (railroading, museums, etc.) to arts and culture (artisan trails, festivals, etc.), The Alleghenies casts a wide net of activities for families. The Alleghenies region of Southcentral Pennsylvania has a few suggestions on how to best enjoy this upcoming summer. From on- and off- road cycling to fishing and boating to kayaking and canoeing to birding and nature watching, The Alleghenies (www.TheAlleghenies.com) offers an abundance of outdoor recreation.

"All eight regions in The Alleghenies offer unique experiences for visitors," said Adrienne Eichenlaub, Regional Tourism Program Manager. "Whether you're looking for the thrill of gliding down a zip line, a unique festival with family activities, or a relaxing walk through historical Pennsylvania towns, these experiences and more can be found in the region."

Here's a look at the Top Ten Reasons to Visit and Explore The Alleghenies (in no specific order):

1. Raystown Zip Lines (Raystown Lake Region) -- This new zip line park is a great family destination. With five zip lines--the longest being 450 feet--riders will enjoy a safe and fun experience located close to Raystown Lake.
2. Nature Inn at Bald Eagle State Park (State College Region) -- This 16-room inn, opening this summer, has an environmental and energy-efficient design.  The lodge features locally-quarried stone, Pennsylvania hardwoods, interpretive messages about conservation and wildlife, and expansive wildlife viewing opportunities. It is the first facility of its kind in a Pennsylvania state park.
3. Railfest 2010 (Altoona Region) -- This annual event will be held June 27th at the Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum. Highlights include the 50th anniversary celebration of the East Broad Top Railroad, Horseshoe Curve daily activities, as well as shared celebrations between all three facilities.  
4. Thunder in the Valley (Johnstown Region) -- Johnstown's annual Thunder in the Valley (June 24-27) is one of America's top motorcycle rallies.  Featured events and activities include the 6th Annual Wheels & Wings Car & Bike show, live music, various venders and "Hot Nights/Cool Lights Bike Night Parade." The Alleghenies has eight scenic motorcycle touring routes as well, so visitors will have plenty of options.  
5. Town Treks (Bedford County Region) -- This "guided" walking tour features the history of downtown Bedford and takes about 75 minutes to complete. Town treks can be downloaded to an MP3 player and are also available for Johnstown. Coming soon to downtown Huntingdon.
6. Trans-Sylvania Mountain Bike Epic (State College & Raystown Lake Region) -- This seven day mountain bike stage race will be held May 30 - June 5 in and around State College. The seven stages will be comprised of singletrack interspersed with rolling mountain roads showcasing the incredible off-road riding in the region, including Pennsylvania's only IMBA EPIC ride.
7. Mystery Tours (Altoona Region) -- Mystery Tours began in 1964 to share with local residents and visitors "Hidden Treasures" off the beaten path look in The Alleghenies. The Mystery is what new treasure will be uncovered along the ride/drive. Tours this summer include Faith & Our Fathers (6/20) and Early Settlers of the Alleghenies (7/18).
8. Mount Davis Century (Laurel Highlands Region) -- For outdoor adventure enthusiasts one of the most exciting on-road cycling rides in The Alleghenies is riding 100-miles in a day to the highest point in Pennsylvania, Mount Davis.  This route, in Somerset County, offers both climbing as well as rolling country roads and is recommended by the Laurel Highlands On/Off Road Bicycling Association.
9. Juniata RiverFEST (Juniata Region) -- This free, family-friendly Independence Day celebration on July 3rd will feature a 5k run, raft regatta, craft vendors, family activities, and fireworks. RiverFEST celebrates the community through arts, entertainment, and recreational activities.
10. Strawberry Festival (McConnellsburg Region) -- The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism's 20th annual Strawberry Festival will take place June 11-12.  Highlights of the event include epicurean tastes of all things strawberry, children's activities and a hot dog eating contest.

About The Alleghenies

The lands of The Alleghenies are home to some of the best fishing streams in the East, countless miles of hiking trails, rushing whitewater rivers, peaceful lakes, and the countryside Bicycling Magazine named one of the "five top bicycle areas in the nation." It's a place of quiet towns, picturesque covered bridges, and historic sites dating back to the time when these lands were the final frontier of America. Discover the eight destination areas of The Alleghenies and enjoy a unique adventure in a remarkable place. For more information call 1-800-458-3433 or visit www.thealleghenies.com.

SOURCE The Alleghenies