Johnstown Inclined Plane — Attraction in Westmont

Having been born in Johnstown, I knew the Inclined Plane as a memorable historical place where we had fun riding up the hill, looking off the deck and grabbing a treat in the shop to enjoy while visiting the building next door and trying to find our childhood home in the red satellite image on the wall. Sadly, we had to move away many years ago. I recently, July 25, 2020, had the chance to go back and this time, share it with my daughter who will probably never see it again. So, I was quite disappointed when two ladies claiming to be from Asiago's, who had positioned themselves in the vestibule, refused us access to visitors center, where the satellite photo is, because the restaurant was hosting a private party. Since when can restaurant employees block public access to a historical landmark?🤔😒 This was no COVID-19 concern because they were standing shoulder-to-shoulder, unmasked having full conversation. A potentially once in a lifetime chance to share a cherished experience ruined by a power-hungry event planner😫 So, to future visitors, be cautious. Think twice; the round-trip ticket price isn't always...

Riding the plane is rather inexpensive. They run roughly every 15 minutes, although I wish hours of operation started earlier. Mountain bike trails are easily accessed from the top, ride bikes down and ride the plane back up. The bottom, however, requires you to carry your bike up through a very narrow passage and stairwell. If you are running bars over 700s, it's very tight, and difficult for children. I had to carry my bike up, then go back and carry my sons bike up. The trails are pretty technical and I wouldn't advise a novice, especially a novice child, ride them. The trails require ability to control your descent and handle tight turns. The lower section of trail is mich easier...

Great Views - and Fascinating History

The Johnstown Flood of 1889 killed 2,209 people. The Inclined Plane was built as an escape route from the valley below, and was used for evacuation in 1936 and again in 1977. This site, and the Johnstown Flood National Memorial (National Park Service) in South Fork PA (25 minute drive) give a feeling of what that disaster entailed. (Read Johnstown Flood by David McCullough for the story).

Not a history buff - great views and a fun ride the kids will remember.:Adults - $5.00 Round Trip, $3 One-Way Children under 2 - FREE / 2 to 12 - $3 Round Trip, $2 One-Way Seniors (65+ with ID) - FREE . Your car can go TOO! ($8 one way, includes driver)....