Existing comment:
Skew Arch Bridge Trail:
The spur trail to your left leads 1/3 mile down the east slope of the mountain to the historic Skew Arch Bridge. The bridge is located near the base of the portage railroad's Incline No. 6. The trail roughly parallels the incline.
The Skew Arch Bridge was completed in 1834 to carry travelers on the Huntingdon, Cambria & Indiana Turnpike over the portage railroad. The road also accommodated wagons, horses, and livestock. The railroad closed in 1854, but the road bridge remained in service until 1922.
Builders "skewed" the angle of the bridge to allow the road to cross Incline No. 6 without making an awkward bend. Today the bridge with its interwoven diagonal planes and pleasing lines stands as a superb example of stone masonry design and craftsmanship. |