The narrow-gauge East Broad Top is one of Pennsylvania's best kept historical secrets, probably because it fits the familiar warning, "You can't get there from here!"

If the EBT were near Pittsburgh, in the Harrisburg-Gettysburg-Lancaster tourism triangle, or even in this area, it would be one of the most popular attractions in the Keystone state. The original EBT was no creme-puff amusement park ride, but a heavy-duty railroad that for more than a century hauled coal from deep in the mountains to the standard-gauge Pennsylvania Railroad at Mount Union. And it did it on tracks that were only 3-feet wide vs. the 56-inch-wide tracks of a normal railroad.

Unfortunately, for rail buffs, casual tourists and the EBT itself, this railroad frozen in time is way off the beaten path.

Still, if you have even a modest interest in steam locomotives or in Pennsylvania's industrial history, a visit to the EBT is well worth the trip. Besides being able to see a complete railroad as it existed a half-century ago, there is the fascinating Rockhill Trolley Museum right next door, complete with running trolleys.

Trains run on summer weekends, but the most spectacular time to visit is the weekend when they pull out all the stops against a background of beautiful fall foliage. This year that weekend is Oct. 12-13. However, with the EBT's future in jeopardy, it probably would be smart to call (814) 447-3011 or check the Friends of East Broad Top Web site at www.febt.org before planning a trip.

The easiest way is to take the Turnpike east to the Fort Littleton exit (the first exit east of Breezewood) and then head north on U.S. Route 522 about 20 miles to Orbisonia. Once in Orbisonia, turn left at the main intersection (state Route 994) and keep going a few blocks until you see the tracks and the EBT station. You can't miss them. If you prefer the scenic route, you can head for Altoona, take U.S. Route 22 from there to Mount Union, and then take U.S. Route 522 south about 11 miles to Orbisonia.