Blue Knob State Park
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Blue Knob State Park encompasses 6,128 acres of wilderness on Pennsylvania's second-highest mountain at 3,146 feet elevation. The park is home to Blue Knob All Seasons Resort, Pennsylvania's highest ski area with 1,072 feet of vertical drop. With 18 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing, the park offers year-round mountain recreation. The high elevation creates unique ecosystems and provides spectacular views extending to the Allegheny Mountains. Summer brings cool temperatures and mountain wildflowers, while winter offers downhill and Nordic skiing opportunities.
Free (Ski resort fees separate)
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs welcome on 18 miles of trails and campground; bring water, keep dogs controlled for horses, bikes, wildlife; steep.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors love Blue Knob’s high‑elevation mountain character, reliable snowmaking, excellent skiing, 18 miles of trails, wildflowers, summit views, remote, wilderness charm.
Tips from Visitors
- At 3,146 feet, this is Pennsylvania's highest ski area - expect cooler temperatures year-round
- 18 miles of multi-use trails accommodate hiking, biking, horses, and snowmobiles
- Ski resort operates winter season with 34 slopes and recent snowmaking upgrades
- Only 67 feet lower than Mount Davis, Pennsylvania's highest point
- Views extend across the Allegheny Mountains on clear days
- Campground elevation means cool summer nights - bring warm layers
Amenities
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Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Blue Knob State Park:
- Blue Knob All Seasons ResortPennsylvania's highest elevation ski resort with 34 slopes, 1,072-foot vertical dropWithin the park
- Raystown Lake30-mile long lake offering boating, fishing, and water recreation20 miles away
- Horseshoe Curve National Historic LandmarkFamous railroad engineering marvel near Altoona25 miles away
Things to Do at Blue Knob State Park
Camping at Blue Knob State Park
Blue Knob State Park: 50 tent/trailer sites, cabins year‑round; campground mid‑Apr–mid‑Dec. Reservations recommended; restrooms/showers, potable water; pets allowed; quiet 9–8.
Hiking Trails
Blue Knob Trail System
ModerateExtensive multi-use trail network for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Varied difficulty levels with mountain terrain.
Lost Turkey Trail
ModerateModerate loop trail exploring the mountain's varied terrain. Multi-use trail with some elevation changes and rocky sections.
Summit Trail
StrenuousChallenging trail climbing toward the 3,146-foot summit. Steep sections rewarded with panoramic Allegheny Mountain views.
Directions
Blue Knob State Park is located in northwestern Bedford County. From the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), take Exit 146 (Bedford) and follow I-99 north to Exit 7. Follow PA Route 869 west through Pavia and follow park signs. From I-80, take Exit 161 (Bellefonte) and follow US Route 220 south to I-99 south, then follow directions above. The park is approximately 25 miles from Altoona, Johnstown, and Bedford. GPS: 40.2666°N, 78.5838°W.