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Kittanning Gap

Coordinates: 40°29′54″N 78°27′03″W / 40.49833°N 78.45083°W / 40.49833; -78.45083
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Kittanning Gap is a gap at the summit of Allegheny Ridge[citation needed] in central Pennsylvania in the United States. It is located in Logan Township, approximately 5 mi (8 km) west of Altoona.

History

In the 18th century the Kittanning Path passed through the gap, providing a route between central and western Pennsylvania for Native Americans and early white settlers. It was later selected as the site for a railroad line across the Allegheny Mountains. The challenge of constructing a railroad through the ridge led to the construction of the unique Horseshoe Curve in 1854, now designated as a National Historic Landmark.

40°29′54″N 78°27′03″W / 40.49833°N 78.45083°W / 40.49833; -78.45083