Have you ever stopped to think that pretty much everywhere we go in Pennsylvania has some sort of historical significance – whether it’s to a family, a community, or an entire state? That makes exploring even more fascinating, doesn’t it? This beautiful rail trail in Pennsylvania, for example, has a fascinating tale to tell, and it begins with the area’s very first residents.
Long before the Chester Creek Trail in Aston hosted hikers, bikers, and other adventurers, its land was home to the Lenni-Lenape, the first-known inhabitants.
All Trails/Saji Mattamana
However, once European settlers made their way to the area, they took over where the Lenni-Lenape once lived. The town of Aston was founded in 1682.
All Trails/William Hughes
Aston and the surrounding area grew and thrived, especially with the addition of the Chester Creek Branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad toward the end of the 1860s.
All Trails/Steve Brogan
The railroad played a significant role in life until the early 1970s. Hurricane Agnes hit in the summer of 1972, causing the Chester Creek Line to flood and effectively shutting it down permanently.
All Trails/Saji Mattamana
For nearly two decades, the railroad tracks lay dormant, overgrown by grass and shrubbery. Then Mike Fusco, an area resident, and several others rallied together to bring the railroad back to life again - as a rail trail.
All Trails/Nico Suave
It took some time, but the Chester Creek Trail opened in 2017 and has since become a popular destination for hikers. The trail tallies 2.8 miles one way and is considered easy.
All Trails/Saji Mattamana
The trail is flat and paved, making it ideal for bikes and strollers, and it can get quite busy. Keep an eye out for bikers if you’re walking.
All Trails/Harriet Lauren
If you need a breather or just want to admire the scenery, relax on one of the benches that dot the path.
All Trails/Jackson_0831
Learn more on the Chester Creek Trail website. Or, stop by its Facebook page.
All Trails/D. Bradley Bux
Have you followed this trail in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! Then take a peek at the nine things you probably didn’t know about Pennsylvania’s history.
All Trails/Saji Mattamana
All Trails/William Hughes
All Trails/Steve Brogan
All Trails/Nico Suave
All Trails/Harriet Lauren
All Trails/Jackson_0831
All Trails/D. Bradley Bux
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Address: Chester Creek Trail, Chester Crk Trl, Middletown Township, PA 19014, USA
