Rusty Glessner - Laurel Hill State Park is comprised of 4,062 acres of mountainous, wooded terrain in central Somerset County. From Ohiopyle, pedal east along the banks of the Youghiogheny Riverfor a scenic 11-mile ride to Confluence, another charming trail town. Laurel Highlands River Tours and Outdoor Center, Ohiopyle White Water Rafting, Hiking & Camping. Laurel Hill Lake and the beach are the hub of activity in the summer. Check out our latest Pittsburgh promotions below! There are over 80 miles of trails to explore and abundant waterfalls. 10, 2023 A young George Washington had his first military engagement here and his only surrender. Or perhaps you simply want to try out something new? Find the perfect camping spot or rent a rustic cabin! 2. Pro Tip: Check the calendar of events to learn which festival might be happening when you visit. State Parks. These rocky, sprawling highlands laybetween the Chestnut Ridge and the Laurel Ridge of the Appalachians. It traverses state parks, state forests, state game lands, other public lands, and private lands. The box turtle, easily camouflaged with its yellow mottled shell, hides and looks for food on the forest floor during the summer months. An overnight camping fee is charged per night per individual in the backpacking party. The slopes and trails provide opportunities for skiers and snowboarders of all levels and the lodge is a cozy place to eat and enjoy the view. The natural beauty of the Laurel Highlands is unparalleled in southwest Pennsylvania and is truly one of the biggest reasons why it is so popular for day and weekend trips from Pittsburgh. These are the best places for budget-friendly nature & parks in Laurel Highlands: Ohiopyle State Park; Cucumber Falls; Laurel Caverns; Laurel Hill State Park; Living Treasures Animal Park; See more budget-friendly nature & parks in Laurel Highlands on Tripadvisor 40.40858 Long. It is now open as a museum with self-guided and guided tours available. With this sport comes moremobility anda short learning curve,butyou willbe paddling down the river in no time. Please enable scripts and reload this page. (For more on each, check out our guide to skiing in the Laurel Highlands.). The area has experiences to enjoy in all four seasons, from hiking, biking, and trout fishing in the spring to Steelers Training Camp and whitewater rafting in summer. The Laurel Highlands is one of the best destinations in PA for waterfalls, and there are many to be found here both big and small. your eyes on this website, our instagram, facebook page, Accept the challenge, park at Ferncliff and get to it! .wp-show-posts-columns#wpsp-53536 {margin-left: -2em; }.wp-show-posts-columns#wpsp-53536 .wp-show-posts-inner {margin: 0 0 2em 2em; } It served merchants, passengers, slaves in pursuit of freedom, and soldiers of the Mexican War. Welcome to the beautiful Laurel Highlands, filled with scenic byways, picturesque overlooks, and unique, quaint communities. Robin ONeal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, and the visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regardless of the vibe you're looking for, you're sure to find a secluded spot to take in the great outdoorsand recharge forthe next day's adventure. The center also offers an excellent view of the main falls area from an indoor lookout. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is a major segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, a network of trails between the mouth of the Potomac River and the Allegheny Highlands. It is also worth noting that both Hidden Valley and Seven Springs have many ski-on, ski-off rentals available to rent directly from the resort and as apartment rentals as well. The diverse terrain in the Laurel Highlands is rugged, flowy and technical, but it's nothing you can't tackle with some practice! Let us share our experiences with you on the Yough River. Reservations Make online reservations or call toll-free 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), from 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday to Saturday. Fort Ligonier Laurel Highlands River Tours & Outdoor Center 2020. Just be sure to get to Laurel Hill State Park sooner rather than later- it is one of our favorites! Take a short drive from Main Street in Ohiopyle to the parking area, just a few yards from the rocky overlook. The first shots of the French and Indian War were fired near Fort Necessity,the nations first federally-funded highway passed through the heart of the region, and one of ourcountrys least-known founders lived in the region. Welcome to the beautiful Laurel Highlands, filled with scenic byways, picturesque overlooks, and unique, quaint communities. Many scenic routes provide spectacular views when traveling by car to the Laurel Highlands. Along the way, there are hemlock groves, mountain streams, hardwood forests and the sounds of wildlife. 2,840-acre lake with power boating and water skiing. Laurel Hill is surrounded by thousands of acres of pristine state park and state forest lands. Laurel Ridge State ParkStretches along the Laurel Mountain from the picturesque Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown. Please confirm these directly with any business or attraction prior to visiting. Get 10% off clothing from Steel City using code: DISCOVERTHEBURGH, Take 10% off orders from Strip District-based Colombino using code: DISCOVERTHEBURGH. Some of the biggest parks and nature areas you can see in the Laurel Highlands include the following: These are just thebiggest parks and nature spaces too, as the Laurel Highlands is also home to many other gorgeous green spaces beyond those featured above (like the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve on Saint Vincent's campus in Latrobe). Laurel Hill State Park office for facility seasons and hours. Walleye and smallmouth bass fishing, year-round trout fishing in the outflow. Winter is the biggest season here, and winter wonderland best describes this snowy playground. If you are a foodie, check out the Laurel Highlands Garlic Festival or the Great American Banana Split Celebration. Hospital directions are posted at the pavilion and at the warming hut at the PA 653 ski area. It is home to two professionally designed golf courses, Mystic Rock and Shepherds Rock. The park is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset. Take afamily-friendly river tripon the Middle Yough, which offers nine miles of gentle rapidsperfect for a leisurely float. The additional registration opportunities for the 70 Miler will beTuesday, third (70 spots) of the available 210 spots will be available during There are hiking trails, a gift shop, and several educational displays, and you can visit the Lemon House where travelers stayed during their trips. Registration is opening, beginning at 3PM ET on Sunday, November 27th, For those who like on-site accommodations, Seven Springs has the biggest mountain resort with many amenities including a wonderful lodge, a full spa, several restaurants (don't miss Helen's as it is a favorite of ours for a nice meal- just be sure to get an advanced reservation), and more. 1.25 acres lot. Within the structure, most of the walking is on flat surfaces. Your journey takes you through the Laurel Highlands, the 20,633-acre Ohiopyle State Park, and the regions coke, coal, mining, and steel-making corridor, and ends at the majestic Point State Park in Pittsburgh. 9, 2023 (Location & Time TBD) Dinner & PPU, June But this region is quite large and runs all the way from New Kensington on the Allegheny River to the north, Mt. Visiting the Flight 93 National Memorial - The Flight 93 National Memorial marks the spot where United Flight 93 . You will find remarkable landmarks such as the highest point in the Keystone State, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and so much more. . While it would be pretty impossible to cover all history of the Laurel Highlands in a single guide, we're going to try and hit some of the biggest points all the same. Possibly the most photogenic (and most photographed) waterfall in the Laurel Highlands, Cucumber Falls at Ohiopyle State Park is a graceful 30-foot drop. The first 4.5 miles fromOhiopyle are some of the most challenging of the trail. Home to the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra, The Palace Theatre in Greensburg is also a venue for the River City Brass. Please enable scripts and reload this page. Day use areas close at dusk. When in doubt, remember that the Laurel Highlands covers a huge region and has limited highways- so picking a good location can save you a ton of time when exploring here. Stop for a visit and listen to the chimes. Laurel Hill State Park is located at 1454 Laurel Hill Park Road in Somerset, PA- just a short drive away from Seven Springs. As summer thrives atOhiopyle State Park, Ferncliff Peninsula, a 100-acre botanical reserve comes to life with lush vegetation and its own ecosystem. We've personally stayed at the SpringHill Suites in Latrobe and enjoyed its many decorations around all things Arnold Palmer. Get more information about the region and whats near the trail from the How to Get to the Hyde Park Walking Bridge in Western PA, Copyright 2013-2023 Uncovering Media, LLC - All Rights Reserved, the nations first federally-funded highway, ourcountrys least-known founders lived in the region, PAs only preserved Native American battlefield, the first shots of the French and Indian War, Hiking Through the Beautiful Quebec Run Wild Area in Fayette County, PA, How to Get to the Jumonville Cross in Fayette County, PA, How to Get to the Hyde Park Walking Bridge in Western PA. In early spring, look for toads and frogs crossing the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail on their way to vernal pools to mate and lay their eggs. Please enable scripts and reload this page. Experience our first-class outdoor adventures. A part of the park near the lakes was known as Camp Orange and was a summer recreation area with many homes. Contact the The Great Allegheny PassageRide a bike, take a hike, create your own adventure on 132 miles of a world-class, nearly flat trail, now connected to the C&O Canal Towpath tofor a total of318 miles. In this guide, we break down just about everything you need to know when exploring this gorgeous part of Pennsylvania! This one failed when troops led by a young George Washington fired on the French, killing an ambassador, and is often attributed as a starting conflict that led to the French and Indian War (some would argue this eventually led to the Revolutionary War too). Interesting sites along the way include the Cumberland Narrows, crossing the Mason-Dixon Line, and the Eastern Continental Divide at 2,392 feet. So for accommodation options in the Laurel Highlands, we have to ask a simple question- what is your purpose in visiting? November 29, 2022, 7PM ET and Thursday, December 1, 2022, 3PM The Woodlands Spa and Salon at Nemacolin offers cutting-edge signature therapies and traditional, holistic practice luxury spa treatments perfect for the 50+ traveler. Want more Pennsylvania? Kentuck Knob and Polymath Park are two other Frank Lloyd Wright structures in the Laurel Highlands. Ohiopyle State Park. Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. Youghiogheny River LakeConfluence, PA 814-395-3242. Ohiopyle State Park featuresa fewdownhill mountainbiking trailsthat are well-maintained and guaranteed to give you a fun challenge. TheLaurel Highlands Hiking Trailspreads 70 miles from Ohiopyle State Park to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown. 70 Mile - 70 spots, Thursday, Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. This activity or structure is ADA accessible. If libations are of interest to you, the Laurel Highlands does not disappoint as the region is home to several dozen breweries, distilleries, wineries, and more. Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, 70 miles, Ohiopyle - Seward, PA, within Laurel Ridge State Park, Pennsylvania State Parks (click on "maps"). There are also three, soon to be four, Frank Lloyd Wright homes in the region, including Fallingwater, his most famous design. Laurel Highlands River Tours & Outdoor Center offers you the chance to experience all the splendor of the largest park in Pennsylvania, Ohiopyle State Park, with our many water and land activities. Sit in the creek bed and ride the water down the natural waterslides. If you're new to rock climbing, take a lesson! Mind meal / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0) 5. If you are in the area it isa must see! Lets check out a few of our favorite experiences in the Laurel Highlands that mature travelers will enjoy. If you're in it for the long haul, you will find Adirondack-style shelters available for reservations every 6-12 miles. In fact, in 2019 they even came out with a Pour Tour passport to promote the libations scene in the region and it has become quite popular (so don't forget to pick one up!). Dont forget the Fall Fest in October. There were stationary engines at the head of each inclined plane, powering ropes to tug the railroad cars up the steep mountain. Laurel Highlands Ultra Race Day 2023 Baughman Rock Overlook offers one of the most jaw-dropping panoramic vistas of the Youghiogheny River Gorge, and the view doesn't require a hike! Flight 93 National MemorialShanksville, PA, Fort Ligionier40 Minutes from Ohiopyle State Park. Astroll through the town is just as exciting as the outdoor adventure beyond! 39.87117 Long. Six state parks and three state forest picnic areas have been developed in and around the forest. Come to the park in mid-October and witness fall color in all its glory. 40.40858 Long. Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, a network of trails between the mouth of the Potomac River and the Allegheny Highlands. 2023. Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Make a reservation for rafting or rentals on the Lower Yough or Middle Yough for anytime this season by July 31st and receive 15% OFF! These are especially abundant in Fayette and Somerset Counties to the south. [more] Status: Open through Tue Oct 31 2023 Max reservation window: View all Facility also offers: Camping Permits The 13,625-acre Laurel Ridge State Park stretches along Laurel Mountain from the picturesque Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle, to the Conemaugh Gorge . Pro Tip: If you visit nothing else, make time to visit this site. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is a major segment of the The Allegheny Portage Railroad was the final piece of the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal, circumventing the Allegheny Mountains. A subsequent campaign to take Fort Duquesne, led by General Forbes, included the construction and subsequent Battle of Fort Ligonier which resulted in a British victory. The path snakes around mountains, soars above valleys, and skirts alongside three rivers (the Monongaleha, Youghiogheny, and Casselman) on its nearly level path. The PA State Park Experience Fun is guaranteed for rafters of all ages! Mind meal / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0). If you're an experienced climber, skip the lesson and check out Meadow Run Climbing Area, Bruner Run Climbing Area, School House Crag and Coll's Cove. Twenty-eight miles of the Great Allegheny Passage rail-trail runs through the Ohiopyle State Park. At the heart of the park is the 63 acre Laurel Hill Lake, a fantastic spot for swimming, boating, fishing, and bird-watching. The A beautiful leaf-looking drive in the fall. Scenic Byway (Routes 711/381)68 miles of beauty! An observation tower, which is several floors high with many stairs, is located on the high point. This area spans a four-county region including Westmoreland, Fayette, Cambria, and Somerset counties. Proudly founded in 1681 as a place of tolerance and freedom. It was built as a residence and summer home in 1935. Fort Ligonier also has an exclusive exhibit of George Washingtons extraordinarily rare treasures. While it might not have all the big city amenities, there are enough things to do in the Laurel Highlands to keep you busy for years. While it would be unfair to label the Laurel Highlands a place to visit for just one category in this guide if we were to do that it would most certainly be because of its parks. Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Laurel Highlands Falls Area Visitor Center to learn about the park's history and environmental treasures through topographic maps, adventure-inspiring displays and even interactive, educational exhibits for kids of all ages. Depending on your interests in exploring, your mind may drift to a particular city or region in the Laurel Highlands as a base reference point. Length: 13.48 Miles County: Somerset Trail Description Laurel Hill State Park consists of 4,072 acres of mountainous terrain in Somerset County. 26 Prime Day Deals To Elevate Your Travel Experience. The Fort Necessity Battlefield National Historic Site marks the beginning of the French and Indian War. All Rights Reserved, Top 10 Things to Do in Ohiopyle Updated for 2022. June 10, 2023 Laurel Highlands Ultra Race Day 2023 5:30AM - 70M Start 7:30AM - 50K Start. Comment below to share! We add new reviews on this site weekly! These Class I and II rapidsare ideal for families with young children and those looking for a relaxing way to cool off. Hiking Through the Beautiful Quebec Run Wild Area in Fayette County, PA When you look at many of the park maps from the previous sections, odds are good you'll see references to cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and even snowmobiling paths to enjoy in the winter months. Are you looking to promote your business or destination? Filters View Back to top use #laurelhighlands to be featured or Discover the Great Allegheny Passage Public lands, state parks, state game lands, state forests and private nature preserves make upmore than 100,000 contiguous acres available for outdoor recreation in the Laurel Highlands. If youre feeling adventurous, you can trek further to ground level, get up close to the waterfall and even walk behind it. Beginning in October the ridges and valleys come to life with color, with the peak near mid-October. all additional important dates below. and facebook everyone a chance to sign up at a time that works for them. Frank Lloyd Wrights FallingwaterWorld Famous and only 3 minutes from your whitewater rafting check in location at Wilderness Voyageurs in Ohiopyle, PA. The first 4.5 miles from Ohiopyle are some of the most challenging of the trail. Highlights include a stop at the third deepest gorge in Pennsylvania, a ride on the worlds steepest vehicular incline, a walk to a bog, and a pleasant drive through and past five state parks and a state forest. Sharpenyour skills with aninstructional programtaught by expertsat anOhiopyleoutfitter. Hidden Valley is a bit more low-key but still provides a resort-like experience for those wanting something a bit more toned back. The 70-mile hiking trail stretches along Laurel Mountain from the picturesque Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle State Park to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown. You can explore the grounds and learn more about our countrys history. 70 Mile - 70 spots, Tuesday, ), Wednesday, group for more updates.Stay safe and happy trails. The new model provides more opportunities for everyone to sign up. Jul. Get in touch here! Casual hikers enjoy areas that are reasonably level and pleasant for walking. Opened in 1939, Laurel Mountain was one of the first ski areas in Pennsylvania. Visitors learn about the historic Lincoln Highway and the fascinating sites along the way. One If youre looking for more hiking opportunities, read up on the 10 Best Hikes In Western Pennsylvania. (This area getsits name from the Mountain Laurel thatthrivesat the higher elevations throughout the region.) We realize that there is no Sweet Rust Review Libations and Farm to Table Cuisine, Seven Springs Resort Review A Mountain Resort for All Seasons, Hidden Valley Resort A Great Ski Resort for First Timers, A Quick Hike Around Kooser State Park A Smaller Gem, Buffalo Bill's House is a Must for The Silence of the Lambs Fans, An Attraction and Dining Guide to Downtown Pittsburgh, An Attraction, Drinking, and Eating Guide to South Side, An Attraction and Restaurant Guide to Garfield and Friendship, Experiencing Socially Distant Skiing at Seven Springs, Laurel Hill State Park is a Favorite in the Laurel Highlands, Take a Stroll Through a Sunflower Maze at Maple Bottom Farm. online reservations or call toll-free 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), from 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday to Saturday. The eight Pennsylvania state parks and two PA state forests of the Laurel Highlands encompass nearly 120,000 acres of beautiful laurel-covered mountains and deep, water-carved valleys. The spring and fall months bring a variety of migratory birds through the area, including warblers and hawks. Northern Terminus GPS DD: Lat. Website. Contact the The Waterfalls of Ohiopyle State Park - Ohiopyle State Park is one of my favorite parks in Pennsylvania. From spring to fall you can find the occasional red back or spotted salamander finding the cool undersides of rocks and leaf litter to their liking. Laurel Hill is surrounded by thousands of acres of pristine state park and state forest lands. From New Kensington to the north and Ohiopyle to the South, the region known as the Laurel Highlands covers three counties in southwest Pennsylvania and truly has alot to see. But the tour includes at least a mile of walking, including some uphill and downhill gravel pathways. The trail is open year-round and is blazed approximately every 100 feet with 2- and 5-inch yellow blazes. Rhodendron, ferns and plenty of cross trails. Keystone State. What is your favorite spot in the Laurel Highlands? The 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail (LHHT) is one of few remote backpacking footpaths in the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail network. The park is eight miles east of Ligonier, or five miles west of Jennerstown on US 30. Davis to the southeast, the Monongahela River to the west, and a whole lot of gorgeous Pennsylvania in-between. Evening view from the Laurel Hill State Park scenic overlook tower. Its also an amazing history destination. Grab a bite to eat, shop and walk around town then head back to Ohiopyle. Laurel Hill is surrounded by thousands of acres of pristine state . These included the Battle of Fort Necessity in 1754, the Battle of Fort Ligonier in 1758, and the Battle of Bushy Run in 1763- all of which can be learned about at their respective museums in the area (read our reviews at the previous links). Make 774. Idaho Coeur dAlene & the Hiawatha Bike Tour, Michigan Islands, Trails & Dunes Bike Tour, Pennsylvania Pine Creek Trail & Ghost Town Trail, SD Mickelson Trail & The Badlands Bike Tour, Wisconsin Wanderlust Rail Trail Bike Tour, Pennsylvanias Laurel Highlands Bike Tour, Boy Scouts Service Project Knotweed Removal, Intermediate White Water Kayak Instruction, Paddling Film Festival World Tour comes to Ohiopyle, Ohiopyle Biking GAP Trail & MTB Singletrack, Pittsburgh to DC: GAP and C&O Bike Tour -6D, Reservation Information Rafting & Adventures, Enjoy a 6 day guided bike tour riding the entire GAP from Pittsburgh to Washington DC. Norie-Lynn Ivkovic October 24, 2021 Hiking Book Your Stay Cabins and Campgrounds Set up camp, cozy up in a cabin or try glamping! Events Jul 4 Block Party: Community and Celebration in American Art see more Jul 4 Happy Fourth of July Weekend at Greendance! For reviews of individual wineries in the Laurel Highlands we've visited to date (plus more around southwest PA), click the previous link for our wine guide! GPS coordinates are posted on bulletin board at each trailhead. An easy, one-hour drive south of Pittsburgh and bordered by twointerstates (I-70/ -76 to the north and I-68 to the south), this is an accessible wilderness destination. They host diverse entertainment, including nationally renowned acts and concerts such as Vince Gill, The Oak Ridge Boys, STOMP, Riverdance, Blue Man Group, and more. Hike over 70 miles on the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. This area spans a four-county region including the counties of: Beginning in October, the ridges and valleys come to life with color, with the peak near mid-October. Check out our latest Pittsburgh promotions below! Visit the reconstructed fort in the Great Meadow located about 200 yards from the visitor center. What are you waiting for? Laurel Highlands. Northern Terminus GPS Decimal Degrees: Lat. If you are into music, the Sunday Evening Band Concerts on the Diamond in Ligonier are a hit. Each park has something unique to offer including scenic views, lush forests, trails, history, roaring waterfalls, natural waterslides, and so much more. Once you feelcomfortable, tacklethe Lower Yough's Class III and IV rapids togetthe adrenaline rush you're chasing. They offer gorgeous fall foliage and over 50 festivals in the fall, and dont forget skiing, tubing, and drinking cocoa by the fireplace in winter. state park reservation system. Laurel Hill offers one of the finest family outdoor experiences in PA's State Park system. The main feature of the park is the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which provides the setting for a semi-wilderness backpacking and day hiking experience. -79.00557 Park at the Cucumber Falls trailhead located off Chalk Hill Road and you will find steps leading you from the parking lot to a lookout spot, where you get a great view of the falls without a hike. Are you a local business that would like featured? Located just east of Pittsburgh, our beautiful four-season destination offers spectacular natural scenery, outstanding outdoor recreation venues, historic sites & attractions, family activities and world class resorts. a Laurel Highlands Ultra Racers: Spring Volunteer Day! Had to turn back early because of storm but AWESOME HIKE!!!! Upper Jonathan Run Falls is located along the popular Jonathan Run Trail at Ohiopyle State Park. Forbes State ForestNearly 60,000 acres of land from 14 separate tracts in Fayette, Somerset and Westmoreland counties. One of the most exciting reasons to visit the park is for its scenery. Proudly founded in 1681 as a place of tolerance and freedom. Linn Run State Park office for facility seasons and hours. LAUREL RIDGE STATE PARK, PA Add to Favorites Currently viewing Camping. Fallingwater is one of the United States 24 UNESCO World Heritage sites. There are five miles of hiking trails through the forest and meadows around Fort Necessity. . The best part? You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server. 3. This memorial is emotionally powerful. ! Laurel Hill State Park consists of 4,062 acres of mountainous terrain in Somerset County. Camping, hiking and beach swimming. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. Watch for signs for The Springs at Laurel Mountain. Visit for a day or a week; the quaint towns, picturesque covered bridges, beautiful scenery, and historical sites will wow you. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Discover the Burgh follows Jeremy & Angies personal experiences trying to do everything in Pittsburgh, PA. Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources, Bureau of Facility Design and Construction, Conservation & Natural Resources Advisory Council. By R8068PCkristinem. By answering this, you will give yourself a better direction on what accommodation type is best for you based on your interests and intended destinations. A winter scene at Upper Jonathan Run Falls at Ohiopyle State Park. Westmoreland County to the north is famous for producing the likes of Mr. Rogers and Arnold Palmer (both from Latrobe), being the birthplace of the banana split, hosting Steelers Training Camp at Saint Vincent's College, and is home to the popular children's theme park Idlewild to name a few. Top places to visit in the Laurel Highlands. Explore the beauty of the Laurel Highlands at eight Pennsylvania state parks , two PA state forests, five national parks, and numerous local parks. Fayette, Somerset, and Westmorland Counties make up the Laurel Highlands. Proper hotels are hard to come by outside of turnpike exits and Somerset Township, but apartment rentals, traditional bed and breakfasts, and boutique hotels (like Thistledown at Seger House in Ligonier) are much more abundant. In this guide, we break down just about everything you need to know when exploring this gorgeous part of Pennsylvania! Learn about the events that led up to the American Revolution. 2023 70 Mile registration will have multiple opportunities providing From the outdoor memorial near the crash site, to the museum and structure that emulates the flight path the plane to. Seasoned hikers will enjoy the rugged areas of the trail, while the more casual hiker will find level and pleasant sections.