This trail also offers many landmarks along the way.  Heading south, you pass over a couple bridges, which offer views of the river.  The first significant structure you get to witness however, is a giant windmill.  At first, it may seem a little out of place.  As you continue south however, you encounter more of these green giants.  There is actually a wind mill farm here which the trail passes right next to.  If you are lucky enough, you may even get to pass through when the windmills are on!

 It is in this same area that you will come to another significant landmark; the Salisbury Viaduct.  This former train trestle measures 1900 feet in length and passes over route 219.  The concrete deck provides you with a smooth ride as you cross over the viaduct.  From the middle, you can view windmills to either side.  What a view!!!

 A few miles from the viaduct, you come to the Western Maryland Train Station, located in Meyersdale, PA.  I stopped here on my trip to DC and talked with the nice lady who was working.  She had a lot of information to offer on the trail in that area, so if you ride by, stop in and say hi!  Plus, there is a model railroad display inside, so the stop is worth it!

 A few more miles further south, you come to the Keystone Viaduct.  This old train bridge is not as long or as high as the Salisbury Viaduct, but it is impressive as well in its own right.  One disappointing thing I noticed is that there was already some graffiti on the bridge, but I guess kids will be kids.  The Keystone is uniquely different in its structure from the Salisbury Viaduct, having beams over head of riders as they cross the structure.

 So, if those landmarks are not enough for you yet, there is still one BIG one....the Big Savage Tunnel.  The tunnel was completed in 1911 (engraved on tunnel entrance), but had to undergo a major overhaul to be opened to the public.  Due to the freezing and thawing experienced in this area, the whole ceiling of the tunnel had to be reconditioned.  I am witness to say that the contractors did grade A work with the tunnel; it is in beautiful condition.  Lights were installed to make passing through the tunnel safer and iron gates were attached.  One thing, the gates do close in the winter months to prevent damage from the elements, so check with the website to make sure they are open if you are planning a trip.

 The Big Savage is the last of the landmarks on the trail, but there is one more noteworthy thing.  As you exit the tunnel on the eastern end, the view is simply breath taking.  I do not recommend, but insist for any one who goes through the tunnel to take 10 minutes minimum and enjoy the view.  You will thank me for that advice!  It is at that point that you also are close to the Mason Dixon Line, which marks the PA/MD border and the official change of the Allegheny Highlands Trail of PA to the Allegheny Highlands Trail of MD.

 Trust me when I say that there is no point of this trail that is disappointing.  You will notice a slightly harder ride heading south east, since you are climbing to the highest point of the trail, but that makes going back that much easier!  A definite must see if you are in the area!

 Points of Interest: Confluence, PA, Casselman River, Windmill Farm, Salisbury Viaduct, Keystone Viaduct, Big Savage Tunnel.

 Trail Website: Allegheny Highlands Trail of PA