Named “La Belle Riviere” by French Explorers, the 325-mile Allegheny River is a spectacular waterway that cuts through Armstrong County. What was once used for transportation between Western Pennsylvania and New York is now a scenic waterway enjoyed by recreational boaters, paddlers, and fishermen. The Allegheny River is a scenic and popular waterway for both recreational boaters and seasoned sportsmen. Along the Allegheny, you’ll find great fishing opportunities. There are 47 different varieties of fish, including smallmouth bass, walleye, musky, and catfish! Whether fishing from a secluded bank or from the bows of their boats, anglers are sure to find plenty of exciting fishing action on the Allegheny. It’s also used for water skiing, swimming, and tubing — launch from any of our public launches or become a member of one of the private marinas to get in on all the action.
The 52.5-mile long, non-motorized rail trail located along the former Allegheny Valley Railroad corridor along the eastern bank of the Allegheny River in Armstrong, Clarion, and Westmoreland counties is on the main spine of the emerging 270-mile Erie to Pittsburgh Trail. Rich in local history, trail users will find remnants of villages, iron furnaces, train stations, a coaling tower, tunnels, an 1899 railroad bridge, and a railroad turntable along the trail. Flora and fauna blossom and bound along the trail, creating a colorful and lively show throughout the seasons.