CVC at Work

Take a deeper look at our core conservation and recreational initiatives – from clean water to scenic trails!

The Kiski-Conemaugh River Valley is at the center of an outdoor revolution, providing an oasis from Johnstown to Pittsburgh for people with a passion for fishing, kayaking, cycling, camping, and more.

Conservation

Take a closer look our award-winning Stream Team. Volunteers work year-long to reverse the effects of pollution throughout the valley by monitoring local watersheds and creeks throughout five counties. 

Recreation

The CVC is constructing new river access points and blazing trails across the region, opening the valley to low-impact recreation opportunities! We invite you to explore the West Penn Trail,  a 17-mile multi-use trail from Blairsville to Saltsburg. 

Upper Basin Projects

CVC proudly partners with organizations across the region to increase our reach and the power of our combined conservation efforts. In the Johnstown area, CVC is working with partners to design, develop, and expand trails; all while our sister organization, the Stonycreek/Quemahoning Initative (SQI) continues development of Whitewater Park, a 300-yard river park for kayaking & tubing.

Make a Difference.

Connect with CVC in a way that make sense for you.

JOIN CVC

When you join CVC, you initiate change. You’ll get our newsletter, access to exclusive CVC outings, and more.

VOLUNTEER

If you share our passion for Nature, consider helping us with trail cleanup, water sampling, or lend us a hand at a CVC event.

DONATE

When you donate to CVC, you protect Nature. Your donations help us bridge the gap in funding for vital CVC programs.

EXPLORE

Build awareness for CVC. Take a walk through the woods. Ride your bike on a trail. Paddle downriver. Discover the CVC world & share your experience.

“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” – John Muir

The West Penn Trail Triathlon was once again a celebration of the recreation resources in the Kiski-Conemaugh river basin.  More than 100 participants came to Saltsburg on Saturday, October 11 to boat-bike-run!  Volunteers introduced a new on river course this year due to low water, looping paddlers up and down stream in a pooled area near the riverfront park for a 3 mile alternative to the usual 7 mile linear course from the Conemaugh Dam to Saltsburg.  Spectators seemed to enjoy the extended watch time for this portion of the event. We thank Mike Keltz and his entire family and about 60 volunteers for another great event.

cyclists racing
kayaks

The 2025 Stony-Kiski-Conemaugh Rivers Sojourn in June was a success, with high water making certain reaches exciting. One participant flipped on the Findley Run rapids, and three guides flipped! There were 67 registrations, with 16 paddling every day. Paddlers came from PA, OH, VA, IN, and NC.  The 2026 Sojourn will take place June 4-7. Watch this space for more information.