Gum Stump, Pennsylvania facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Gum Stump, Pennsylvania
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 Gum Stump, Pennsylvania
Location in Pennsylvania
Gum Stump, Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Pennsylvania |
| County | Centre |
| Township | Boggs |
| Elevation | 968 ft (295 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| GNIS feature ID | 1176314 |
Gum Stump is a small, unincorporated community located in Boggs Township, Centre County, Pennsylvania, United States. An unincorporated community means it's a group of homes or businesses that isn't officially a city or town with its own local government.
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Where is Gum Stump?
Gum Stump is found in the state of Pennsylvania, USA. It's about 5 miles (8 kilometers) northwest of a town called Bellefonte. Bellefonte is the main town, or "county seat," for Centre County. Gum Stump sits at an elevation of about 1,100 feet (335 meters) above sea level.
Railroad Switchbacks
One interesting feature of Gum Stump is its special railroad tracks. These tracks are part of the Bellefonte and Snowshoe Railroad. They are known as "switchbacks."
What are Switchbacks?
Switchbacks are a clever way for trains to climb very steep hills. Instead of going straight up, the tracks zigzag back and forth. A train goes forward on one section, then reverses onto another track that goes in the opposite direction, but higher up. This helps the train gain elevation slowly and safely.
Model Railroad Inspiration
The unique switchbacks at Gum Stump have even inspired people. A famous model railroad builder named Chuck Yungkurth used these real-life switchbacks as an idea for his own miniature train layouts.
Pennsylvania State Game Lands
Gum Stump is also home to a large natural area. This area is called Pennsylvania State Game Lands No. 103.
About Game Lands No. 103
This game land covers a huge space of about 8,994 acres (36.4 square kilometers). It is managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. These lands are set aside for wildlife. People can visit them for activities like hunting, hiking, and enjoying nature.
