The best walks and hikes around Franklin

Discover the Stackhouse Park Trail, a true hidden gem offering a tranquil escape into nature within Johnstown, Pennsylvania. This easy hiking route guides you through lush, wooded areas, where you'll hear the sounds of rushing creeks and spot little waterfalls. The path winds through deep ravines, featuring natural canopies formed by overgrowth and charming footbridges, creating a picturesque journey that feels miles away from the urban bustle.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the main entrance accessible from Luzerne Street. The park is very welcoming to families and dog owners, allowing leashed dogs on the trails. You'll find picnic areas and shaded seating, perfect for a break. While the 4.4-mile (7.1 km) trail with 224 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 1 hour and 55 minutes, arriving earlier in the day is always a good idea to secure parking, especially on weekends.

What makes Stackhouse Park truly special is its untouched character; a historical deed prohibits construction or logging, preserving it as a miniature nature reserve. You can still see the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps, who built sturdy stone pavilions and miles of trails in the 1930s. These rustic structures, along with 26 designated fire pits, are still in use today, making the park a beloved community space for gatherings and events.

The Path of the Flood Trail offers a truly unique hiking experience, blending natural beauty with a profound historical narrative. As you traverse this difficult 15.9-mile (25.6 km) route, which typically takes around 6 hours and 45 minutes to complete, you'll follow the exact path of the 1889 Johnstown Flood. Expect varied terrain, from crushed stone to packed earth, and enjoy views of lush woodlands, active rail lines, and the Little Conemaugh River, all while encountering historical markers that bring the past to life.

While the trail is generally considered flat, be ready for some sections with moderate to steep grades, especially around the historic Staple Bend Tunnel. The route is well-marked with numerous interpretive exhibits, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a hike with a strong educational component. Plan to allocate extra time to read the historical information along the way, which provides crucial context to the landscape.

This trail is not just a walk in the park; it's a journey through one of America's worst 19th-century catastrophes, claiming over 2,200 lives. The Path of the Flood Trail meticulously traces the flood's course, integrating landmarks like the 901-foot-long Staple Bend Tunnel, the nation's first railroad tunnel. Its historical and recreational value was recognized when it was named Pennsylvania's 2025 Trail of the Year, highlighting its significance within the region and beyond.

The Staple Bend Tunnel Trail offers a unique blend of easy hiking and fascinating history, making it one of the more popular trails in the region for a relaxed outing. You'll follow a flat, crushed limestone path through a verdant forest, often alongside the Little Conemaugh River, before reaching the impressive Staple Bend Tunnel. This route is perfect for those who appreciate a gentle 4.7-mile (7.5 km) hike with minimal effort, as it only has 183 feet (56 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit is simple, with ample parking available at the trailhead. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all ages, making it a great family-friendly activity. While the estimated time is just under 2 hours, you might want to allow extra time to read the interpretive panels and explore the tunnel. Remember to bring a headlamp if you intend to walk through the 901-foot tunnel, as it can be quite dark inside.

This easy trail holds significant historical importance as the site of the first railroad tunnel built in the United States, completed between 1831 and 1833. It was a crucial part of the Allegheny Portage Railroad, connecting canal systems across Pennsylvania. The route is part of the larger Path of the Flood Trail and is managed by the National Park Service, offering a tangible connection to early American engineering and transportation history.

The Path of the Flood Trail offers a unique journey through history and nature, winding alongside the Little Conemaugh River. You'll experience a mix of crushed stone, pavement, and packed earth underfoot, with lush woodlands providing a scenic backdrop. Keep an eye out for the active Norfolk Southern Railroad running parallel to the trail, adding an interesting dynamic to the natural setting.

This easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) hike, with just 230 feet (70 metres) of elevation gain, is suitable for most fitness levels and takes approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes. Good walking shoes are always a smart choice, and remember to carry water, especially if you're hiking on warmer days. The trail is generally accessible, making it a great option for a relaxed outing.

The most compelling aspect of the Path of the Flood Trail is its deep connection to the 1889 Johnstown Flood, one of America's worst historical catastrophes. The route literally traces the path the floodwaters took, with interpretive signs along the way bringing the tragic events to life. You'll also encounter the historic Staple Bend Tunnel, the first railroad tunnel in the United States, adding another layer of historical significance to your hike.

The Grandview Cemetery loop offers a distinctive hiking experience, blending a gentle outdoor walk with a journey through local history. You'll wander among mature trees and historical gravestones, encountering significant landmarks like the Grand Army of the Republic Memorial and the Morrell Circle. This easy 2.5-mile (4.1 km) route, with just 93 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, provides a quiet, contemplative atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll that takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes.

Planning your visit to this unique trail is simple, as parking is readily available within the cemetery grounds. The route is accessible and enjoyable throughout the year, though many find the spring and autumn months particularly scenic. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful walk without significant physical challenge, and it's a great option for families or anyone looking for an easy hike with historical context.

What truly sets the Grandview Cemetery loop apart is its historical significance, serving as the burial site for 777 unknown victims of the 1889 Flood. Walking here offers a direct connection to the past, with memorials and mausoleums telling stories of the region. It's a family-friendly trail that provides a unique blend of outdoor activity and historical exploration, making it a notable landmark in the area.