Our Restored N5C Caboose

Park & Museum Features

• Museum/Theatre Exhibits, Souvenirs.
• Restored 1942 PRR Caboose with exhibits.
• Ideal location for photos of trains entering & exiting Allegheny Tunnel on the mainline.
• No Admission Charge.
• Historians on duty in the Caboose
• Specialized programs available for large groups - geared to the age group.
• School Groups Welcome.

Tour Groups Welcome!

Altoona Railfest 2008

Come visit the Gallitzin Tunnels Park & Museum during Altoona Railfest this summer, on July 11th through 13th, 2008. Excursion trains will run on the 12th and 13th. Freight traffic has been busier than ever as well. Local lodging is filling up quickly, be sure to make reservations early. For more information about Railfest, please visit www.railroadcity.com.

The Gallitzin Tunnels

The extremely high grade presented the final obstacle in conquering the Allegheny Mountains, making it necessary to build tunnels as early as 1850. The New Portage Tunnel was completed in 1854 at an elevation of 2,167 feet, and was traditionally (and still is) used primarily for eastbound traffic. The Allegheny Tunnel, at 3,605 feet in length, was completed that same year.

The third tunnel, known as the Gallitzin Tunnel, was completed in 1904 and removed from service when the Allegheny Tunnel was expanded to two tracks in 1995. The Tunnels were so significant to the transportation system that they were guarded during the war years.

Still in use today, you can feel the awesome power of trains as they pass through the tunnels daily.

Click the image at left to preview Once Upon a Mountain Once Upon a Mountain narrates and illustrates the fascinating transportation history of the Gallitzin area, including the Allegheny Portage Railroad, Horseshoe Curve, and of course the Gallitzin Tunnels. This video documentary is available on VHS and DVD, and can also be viewed at our theatre.

Railroad buffs have identified the Gallitzin Tunnels as a "must" stopover. It offers to the visitor a glimpse of the fascinating railroad "past and present."

Trains run through the tunnels 24 hours a day and are part of Norfolk Southern's main line through Pennsylvania. While visiting the tunnels, stop by at our Visitors Center located in the Museum/Theatre. The Museum and Caboose are staffed by friendly, local volunteers and are open to the public Tuesday through Sunday.