Pennsylvania Turnpike Unveils New Sideling Hill Trailhead for Hikers and Cyclists

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AIRED; September 18, 2025

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Outdoor enthusiasts in south-central Pennsylvania have a new reason to explore the Bedford and Fulton County region, thanks to the opening of the Sideling Hill Trailhead at the Sideling Hills Service Plaza along the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The new trailhead provides access to local hiking and biking trails, along with convenient amenities for visitors.

Kelli Roberts of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission explained the reasoning behind the project: “The Bedford-Fulton County area is absolutely beautiful. We have a couple tunnels in that area that we abandoned years ago, and we’re able to turn over to the Bedford-Fulton County Joint Recreation Authority to run and create a great area for people to bike and hike… We really felt like it was just the time we wanted to support the local region’s priorities of the outdoor economy as well as environmental tourism.”

The trailhead features a pavilion, bike repair amenities, restrooms, and food options, making it an accessible and convenient gateway to the region’s outdoor offerings.

Haley Feaster, Manager of Communications and Development for the Keystone Trails Association, highlighted the benefits for hikers: “One of the statements in our mission is promoting hiking and accessibility to trails all across Pennsylvania, and this just fits into the mission so clearly. We’re excited to be able to partner with the Turnpike Commission and offer a hike on their opening ceremony and help expand hiking accessibility across the state.”

One of the main trails accessible from the new trailhead is the historic PA Pike Trail. Paul Johnston shared why the trail is so significant: “The fact that it is the longest abandoned railroad tunnel in the United States is pretty impressive… The Turnpike provides that opportunity with the Sideling Hill Plaza and their trailhead there for cyclists and hikers alike from all across the state to join us.”

The new trailhead aims to attract both local residents and travelers along the Turnpike. Haley Feaster added, “This particular program on Saturday is a hiking-only activity. We’ve definitely pushed it out to the local community of Bedford and Fulton County, but KTA has a statewide presence. We’re excited that hopefully folks traveling the Turnpike or people new to the area will be able to check out this trailhead amenity and get outside.”

With this new addition, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is providing a unique way for the public to enjoy the outdoors, connect with local trails, and explore one of the state’s most scenic regions.