CASSELMAN RIVER AND GARRETT
The Casselman River has been flowing through the heart of Garrett and the surrounding areas for centuries, weaving a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty.
This river, known for its meandering paths through lush landscapes, has been a community lifeline and playground for nature enthusiasts. Back in the day, the
Casselman was crucial for transportation and industry, helping to shape the economic backbone of Garrett and nearby towns. Its waters powered mills supported local industries and provided a vital route for early settlers and traders.
Fast forward to today, and the Casselman River has transformed from an industrial powerhouse to a haven for outdoor adventures. Kayakers and canoeists paddle its gentle currents while hikers and bikers explore the scenic trails that hug its banks. The Casselman River Watershed Association is a non-profit organization devoted to conserving the natural resources within the Casselman River Watershed. Membership consists of community members willing to take action to improve the area.
An essential project of the Casselman Watershed Association has been the creation of kayak/canoe launch areas along the river. A guide to the launch areas is at https://
Classic Covered Bridges
Somerset County has ten historic covered bridges; two are close to Rockwood.
Barronvale Covered Bridge is the furthest upstream of covered bridges across Laurel Hill Creek. At 162 feet, it is the longest of the ten covered bridges in Somerset County, Pennsylvania.
King's Covered Bridge is just a few minutes from Barronvale Bridge. It was likely built in 1906 and is 127 feet long.
PACKSADDLE BRIDGE
The Packsaddle Bridge is a historic covered bridge in eastern Somerset County. It was built in 1877 and is a 48-foot-long Kingpost Truss bridge with complete vertical plank siding and large cut stone abutments. The bridge crosses Brush Creek. It is one of 10 covered bridges in Somerset County and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Salibury Viaduct
The Salisbury Viaduct is a highlight feature of Garrett.
The viaduct spans old PA Rt 219, new PA Route 219, the CSX RR main line, farm fields, and the Casselman River. It was built in 1912 by the Western Maryland Rwy for its Connellsville Extension, now the route of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP). It was decommissioned in 1975 and 1998 and modified for use by the GAP.
It's a 3-mile ride from the GAP Trail Access in Garrett to the Salisbury Viaduct.
Around Garrett, Pennsylvania
Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania | LATEST NEWS
Garrett’s Waterways: A Guide to Streams and Rivers
Biking Adventures on the Great Allegheny Passage: From Frostburg to Confluence
