One of Western Pennsylvania’s number one nature attractions is the Laurel Ridge state park that offers 13,625 acres, and that includes the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. A trail that goes for 70 miles from The Ohiopyle to Route 56 between Seward and Johnstown, Pennsylvania. The park covers Cambria, Fayette, Westmoreland, and Somerset Counties, Pennsylvania.
From the Ohiopyle point hikers can enjoy the view of the Youghiogheny River, and from the Johnstown-Seward end hikers can enjoy the Conemaugh Gorge or Valley.
Open all year around, the trial can easily be traveled and distances identified by yellow and blue markers alongside the trail. Yellow markers are for the main trail, offer a judge of distance for each 100 feet taken along the trail. Blue markers identify any side trails along the main trail. Although when the snow is of a great quantity, it may visibility of the signs may be poor.
The Park- Trail offers a way to connect with nature by offer the chance to backpack across the 70 mile route.
The 70 mile trail offers a numerous amount of activities fun for your whole family to enjoy.
Hiking- Hikers may use the trail anytime as well as make use of the shelter accommodations for overnight trips.
-Shelters- There are eight overnight shelter areas. One is located approximately every 6 to 12 miles along the trail. Each area contains five Adirondack-type shelters with fireplaces, two toilets (Don’t flush), a water supply (unfortunately only in certain areas) and spaces for 30 tents. Must make reservations ahead of time. Fees will apply. Please refer to the website provided below for rules and regulations as well as more information.
Snowmobiling- Is available on other trails after the deer season in December, but not acceptable on the Laurel Highlands trail unfortunately.
Cross country skiing- is available on 35 miles of the trail, but a person must contact the local office to find out the exact area in which it is permitted.
For more information on the Laurel Highlands Hiking trails, and surrounding trails please visit the websites : http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/laurelridge.aspx
http://www.shol.com/featheredprop/lhht_info.htm
On a personal Note: Growing up I lived 5 minutes away from the Route 56 Seward entrance. Once a week for the longest period of time, I would join my best friend and his family on a hiking trip every Sunday. We would walk up the trail, stop and have breakfast, play in the creeks, climb the rocks, if it was winter sled ride down the hills, pick sassafras roots to make tea. It was never a boring trip, Educational as well. I learned so much about my surroundings, animal life and plan life.
