Ultimate Guide For a Weekend Getaway to The Laurel Highlands PA
Located along the westernmost ridges of the beautiful Appalachian Mountains and at a short distance from metropoles such as Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Cleveland, and Washington DC, the Laurel Highlands is a perfect getaway for a weekend. The region is characterized by rolling hills, deep river gorges, and other beautiful scenery to enjoy the great outdoors.
With a population of more than 600,000 people, this part in the southwest of Pennsylvania is more than just a perfect setting for outdoor adventures. Culture lovers can indulge themselves in the many historical sites spread out in the area or visit a winery or brewery.
Best Waterfalls in Laurel Highlands
With deep river gorges and mountainous terrain divided by numerous rivers, creeks, and streams, there is little surprise that the Laurel Highlands are famous for having beautiful waterfalls. With so many options to choose from it can be hard to decide which ones you wish to see and visit during your weekend getaway. The classic ones or the one off the beaten track? We help you decide by selecting a few that will ´wow´ most seasoned visitors.
This waterfall is just one of the many that are worth visiting in Ohiopyle State Park. Ohiopyle Falls can best be described as a 20-foot drop of fast-flowing water of the Youghiogheny River. The waterfalls span the entire width of the river making it even more majestic. The fall can be admired from an observation deck that can be reached by following a short walk from the parking lot near the Laurel Highlands Falls Area Visitor Center. Along the walk, you can learn about the history of the falls here and whitewater. If you wish to see Ohiopyle Falls from a different perspective, follow the Ferncliff trail, a short hike leading to the other side of the waterfall.
Cucumber Falls is often regarded as the most beautiful waterfall in Lauren Highlands as it is the most photographed. It features a 30-foot drop that is very easy to admire. From the car park at the trailhead that starts at the top of Cucumber Falls. Descending the trail is very easy because of the steps and only takes a few minutes. From the bottom, you can fully enjoy the magnificent view of the waterfall. Be sure to follow the trail a bit further to the point where the stream flows into the Youghiogheny River.
Cole Run Falls is a waterfall that can be seen in Forbes State Forest in Somerset County. It is shorter than the previous-mentioned waterfalls, but what it lacks in height it makes up for in beauty. The fall has an overhang and consists of two tiers. From the parking lot, there is a short trail leading to the falls which offers one of the best views of the falls.
This waterfall is famous for being roadside which means it is very easy to visit in a short amount of time. the waterfall is not the only reason why people come here. Remarkably, the falls are located beneath one of the most iconic bridges in Pennsylvania. The Packsaddle Covered Bridge Falls are especially impressive after a long period of rain or during wintertime when they are frozen.
Best Activities for Outdoor Lovers in Laurel Highlands
With fantastic scenery, Laurel Highlands is excellent terrain for many outdoor activities. Here are a few to choose from:
- Best Biking Trails in Laurel Highlands
The Laurel Highlands offers mountain bike trails for everyone, from almost level grand rail trails to testing mountain trekking landscapes. Take in the excellence of the beautiful Laurel Highlands on a bicycle ride through state parks, along the Great Allegheny Passage rail trail, and at elite retreats. These mountain bike trails offer an assortment of riding choices, from downhill excites to almost even out family-accommodating rides.
Seventy-six miles of this 150-mile trail runs through the Laurel Highlands and at last interfaces with the C&O Canal Towpath in Washington D.C., adding up to 335 miles from Pittsburgh, PA, to Washington D.C. Each couple of miles, bikers will find an enchanting path town that offers accommodation, activities, food to replenish, and more.
Coal and Coke trail is built on the old Pennsylvania Railroad corridor. Pass memorable coke stoves on this 6-mile trail that connects Mount Pleasant and Scottdale along Jacobs Creek.
The Sheepskin Trail will be a 34 miles trail from Dunbar Township to Point Marion Borough. The trail is under development but segments of the trail are already open.
- White Water Rafting/Kayaking in Laurel Highlands
No outdoor activity is more exciting than a fun and challenging white water rafting or kayaking trip. The Laurel Highlands are notorious for their rafting tours that suit any level. Whether you love the adrenalin kick in with a Class IV or you want a leisurely run on Class I while enjoying the views.
Ohiopyle is the epicenter of whitewater activities. It is here that the fast-flowing Youghiogheny Rover runs. With sections of Class III and IV rapids, the lower part of the river is the most adventurous part. Fortunately, it does not mean you have to be experienced in paddling or rafting as there are several outfitters organizing these rafting tours. The middle section of the river is a bit easier for those who are not too keen on having their blood pumped hard through their veins.
Laurel Hill State Park is the main hub for those who enjoy watersports but do not need adrenalin. Here you can rent kayaks, canoes, and sup boards at a decent rate. Laurel Hill Lake is the best place to enjoy a pleasant trip on the water.
- Best Hiking Trails in Laurel Highlands
Hiking remains up to this day one of the best ways to truly enjoy nature. It is no surprise that the Laurel Highlands has a great network of hiking trails. From day hikes that are well worth the effort to the challenging Laurel Highlands trail.
Let´s kick off with the most challenging trail in Laurel Highlands. This hiking trail has a total length of 70 miles and extends along Laurel Mountain from the beautiful Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle State Park to the Conemaugh Gorge close to Johnstown. Experienced hikers challenge themselves on the lofty, tough spaces of the path while more relaxed trail-walkers appreciate regions that are sensibly level and charming for strolling. The path is the principal component of Laurel Ridge State Park. It crosses borders of different state parks, state backwoods, state game grounds, other public terrains, and private grounds.
This hike is a short one, with a distance of merely 1.83 miles. However, it is possible to lengthen the trip with side trips on the Sugar Run trail and the Great Allegheny Passage/Mitchell Field Trail. The main path takes you to the Jonathan Run Falls, one of the many waterfalls in this region.
Linn Run State Park is home to a few hiking trails, with the Flat Rock trail being the shortest. The path is only a stretch of 0.5 miles but still worth it. It leads you to a large smooth rock that comfortably sits in the Linn Run stream.
Maybe the best hike in Linn Run State Park. With only a length of a mile, it is not physically challenging or demanding. Still, the rewards are all there: a waterfall well hidden in the greens of rhododendron and hemlock.
Best Winter Activitiers in Laurel Highalnds
- Downhill skiing
Laurel Highlands is not only to be enjoyed during spring, summer, and fall. Even winter has its charm and when the snow has covered the rocky bottom, it opens up options for several winter activities.
With a high number of 33 slopes and trails, you are guaranteed a full day of fun at Seven Springs Resort. It is one of the best locations in the Laurel Highlands to go skiing and snowboarding. Winter sports enthusiasts can stay in one of the many chalets if they wish to enjoy their favorite sport for a few days.
Hidden Valley Resort, situated in Hidden Valley, is the ideal winter objective for families. With 26 inclines and trails and two territory parks on 110 skiable sections of land and a top-notch snowsports school, Hidden Valley offers an agreeable climate to figure out how to ski or snowboard. Winter sports lovers don´t need to travel too far as it is only 200 miles away from Pittsburgh, Washington DC, Baltimore, and Cleveland.
Laurel Mountain Ski Resort is also located in Hidden Valley. Similar to Hidden Valley Resort it is a very family-friendly ski and snowboard location. With 26 slopes and even a first-class school to learn to snowboard, the resort offers everything to suit your needs for both novices and experts.
- Cross-Country Skiing
When the snow has covered the terrain in the Laurel Highlands, it is time for one of the favorite activities of many: cross-country skiing. The region offers many miles of impressive trails with which it complies with the popularity of the sport. It is a fun way of traversing the scenery during wintertime. Some of the best trails can be found in Kooser State Park, Laurel Ridge State Park where you can find more than 20 miles of trails, Forbes State Forest, and Ohiopyle State Park.
- Snowmobiling
There is no rental of snowmobiles in the park, but if you have your own, there are many trails to explore during wintertime. Forbes State Forest might be the best option for a snowmobile ride as there are more than 115 miles of roads you can use.
Best Activities for History Lovers in Laurel Highlands
There are a lot of historical sites to be found in the Laurel Highlands. This makes not only an outdoor trip justifiable but an American heritage trip as well. Here you can pay your respect to some great American heroes or see the battlegrounds where a young George Washington has shown his courage.
- Flight 93 National Memorial
September 11, 2001, is a date that will always be well-remembered by all Americans. On this day, four airplanes were hijacked as an act of terrorism. Two of them flew in the World Trade Center Twin towers in New York, one in the Pentagon, and flight United Airlines flight 93 which crashed in an open field in the Laurel Highlands after passengers succeeded in raging to the cockpit in an attempt to make it crash and fail its mission. The Memorial was established by President George W Bush. Here you can see the last resting spot of 40 travelers.
- Fort Ligonier
Fort Ligonier is a French and Indian War fort that dates back to the 18th Century. It is fully restored and reconstructed and now functions as a museum. One of the highlights you can see here is a rare collection of artifacts from George Washington.
- Fort Necessity National Battlefield
Fort Necessity National Battlefield is the place where a young George Washington engaged for the first time in his military career. It was in this battle here that the French and Indian War started and it would set the stage for the American Revolution. On this historical site, you can learn all about this battle.
- Historic West Overton Village
West Overton Village is the birthplace of Henry Clay Frick, maybe the most famous industrialist in Pennsylvania. The village dates back to the 19th century and is now the perfect place to see how life in that era in Pennsylvania was.
Best activities with Kids in Laurel Highlands
Want to visit Laurel Highlands with the kids? No problem, make sure you add some of these children-friendly activities in your itinerary during your weekend getaway.
- Idlewild and Soakzone
In this theme park that was named the best theme park on several occasions, you are guaranteed that your children will have fun here. The amusement park has several classic rides, a waterpark, live entertainment, and more. Make it a day trip as you can have lunch in one of the restaurants in the park.
- Laurel Caverns
If you want to offer your kids a day full of adventure then make a visit to Laurel Caverns. This sandstone cave is the largest one in Pennsylvania. You can walk through the cave via three miles of natural passages.
- Living Treasures Wild Animal Park
With more than 400 animals and 70 species, a visit to Living Treasures Wild Animal Park feels like going on a safari. Taking your kids here is not only an educational experience for them, but is an opportunity to get an interactive encounter with some of the animals.
- Hike Great Gorge Trail
Outdoorsy families can enjoy some kid-friendly trails in Laurel Highlands. One of them is the Great Gorge trail, a hike of 5 miles in Ohiopyle State Park. The hike features a waterfall and is best hiked during the summer months.
- Family-friendly Whitewater rafting
The middle section of Youghiogheny River in Ohiopyle is the best option for some family-friendly whitewater rafting. With rapids no harder than Class I and II, it offers a great introduction to the sport. On this river, you will find many outfitters that offer tours.
- Jennerstown Speedway
Love the sound of loud engines or the smell of burnt rubber? Take your kids to Jennerstown Speedway and witness a race. Every Saturday night, the complex offers a great night out for families.
- Seven Springs Summer Adventures
Seven Springs Mountain Resort is a guarantee for an afternoon of family fun. Take a swim in the pool, ride the Alpine Slide, climb to the top of the rock wall, paddle around Tahoe Lake, climb the Alpine Tower, play a game of miniature golf, or take a chair lift on top of the mountain. They also offer horseback riding and much more.
- Caddie Shak Family Center
An ultimate family fun destination with an outdoor fun park with three Go Kart Tracks, two Mini Golf Courses, Driving Range, Batting Cages, Bumper Boats, small amusement rides, and our Snack Shak.
Best Wineries and Breweries in Laurel Highlands
- Greenhouse Winery
Greenhouse Winery can be visited on a daily basis. During a tour, it is possible to taste different wines ranging from sweet to bold. Make your visit memorable by buying a unique gift basket.
- Glades Pike Winery
Few wine tours can have better scenery than the ones in the Laurel Highlands. Taste some of the best wines of the region while looking out on the rolling hills.
- Wooden Door Winery
Want to taste the best wines from the very best grapes in Pennsylvania? Wooden Door Winery offers hand-crafted wines to all its visitors. So you can taste these locally-produced products for yourself.
- Voodoo Brewery
Voodoo Brewery is a privately owned brewery where you can enjoy delicious craft beer. The brewery is located in New Kensington.
- Helltown Brewing
Helltown Brewing focuses on craft beers with lots of hop. They have a reputation for offering high quality.
- Bloom Brew
This brewery is located on the shore of the Youghiogheny River, in West Newton along the GAP bike trail. It is owned by a family and is known for its wide offer of craft beers. They have about 24 on tap.
- Laurel Highlands Pour tour
The Laurel Highlands Pour tour is a recreational trail that passes along no less than 45 stops, including 17 breweries, 13 wineries, and 8 distilleries. This craft beer, wine, and spirits trail is a real must for anyone who likes alcoholic beverages and feels the urge to try some samples.
Top Attractions In Laurel Highlands
The Laurel Highlands is home to several top attractions that should not be missed. If you are spending your weekend here, we give you some inspiration on what to do and see during your stay.
- Frank Lloyd Wright Homes
Few homes are more famed than the ones designed by world-famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. In the Laurel Highlands, four of the many scattered around the country can be found within a short driving distance. There is one in Fallingwater, Kentuck Knob and Polymath Park and all of them are open to the public. If you need to choose one, we recommend Fallingwater as it is the most unique and the only one with the original furnishings and art.
- Laurel Caverns
Laurel Caverns is the biggest cavern in Pennsylvania by volume. It is divided into two areas, and its entry into the upper cave is an organization of interconnecting network-like sections, while its dark lower sinkhole, known as its branch-work, comprises underground streams into a dendritic arrangement of entries. The cave is famous for the optical illusion known as a gravity hill. It gives visitors the illusion that a ball is rolling up the hill.
- Mount Davis: The Highest Point in PA Overview
From Pittsburgh, Mount Davis is a two-hour drive and makes a perfect day trip or a weekend getaway. It is the highest point in Pennsylvania which explains the attraction of the attraction. Being 3,213 feet, the height is not overly impressive but it still grants an impressive view over the Laurel Highlands.
- The Palace Theatre
A visit to the Palace Theatre is a must for culture lovers. The theatre has hosted many nationally renowned celebs, and music bands over the years and has become a hotspot on the cultural scene of Pennsylvania. Even when it is not possible to attend an event, a tour to see the French Renaissance decor, Grecian marble and more is a true must.
- Fort Ligonier
Fort Ligonier is a French and Indian War fort that dates back to the 18th Century. It is fully restored and reconstructed and now functions as a museum. One of the highlights you can see here is a rare collection of artifacts from George Washington.
Top State Parks in Laurel Highlands
- Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle State Park is located in the southern part of Laurel Ridge. This makes that is often seen as a gateway to the Laurel Highlands. So there is no surprise that this state park draws lots of visitors every year. The Youghiogheny River flows through the state park and is considered the main attraction of the park. Often it is the setting for walks and river rafting trips.
- Laurel Hill State Park
Laurel Hill State Park is a mountainous part of the Laurel Highlands and is located in Somerset County. The main attraction here is Laurel Hill Lake, where most visitors embark on a boat, canoe, or kayak trip. Besides this, it is characterized by pristine forest lands. The park can be explored by a network of hiking and biking trails, including the Hemlock Trail Natural Area.
- Linn Run State Park
Linn Run State Park is a perfect destination for a getaway if you love hiking or renting a cabin. The park is characterized by hardwood and evergreen forests. Be sure to see Adam Falls, where you can find a scenic spot for a picnic.
Best Dining Options in Laurel Highlands
If you plan on having a getaway to the Laurel Highlands, chances are high that you will want to eat out in the evening. We have compiled a list of restaurants that have high ratings from their clients.
- Chef Dato´s Table
The outside of this restaurant is not overly impressive, but what it lacks in the building, it makes up on the menu. The menu consists of a mix of Portuguese, Serbian, and Ethiopian cuisine. Since it changes a lot, there is always a new, international cuisine on the menu.
- The Kitchen on Main
The Kitchen on Main offers some of the best dinings in the Laurel Highlands. From their short rib to their delicious egg breakfast. Here, you are always in for a treat.
- Bittersweet Cafe
A bittersweet cafe is a popular option for visitors who are spending their weekend in Fallingwater or Ohiopyle, They cook with fresh and local ingredients the best meals you will have eaten in a long time. For breakfast, be sure to try their waffles and if you are here for lunch, you can choose from a wide array of sandwiches and paninis.
- Lupi & Leo
You can´t go wrong with Italian cuisine. If you are hungry for a pizza or a classic mac n´ cheese, then Lupi & Leo is where you should be. They make the best Italian dishes, sometimes with a unique twist.
Other Relevant Getaways
Near Pittsburgh:
– For romantic getaways near Pittsburgh see The Ultimate Guide to Romantic Getaways Near Pittsburgh
– For cabin rentals near Pittsburgh see The Ultimate Guide to Cabin Getaways Near Pittsburgh
– For all kinds of getaways near Pittsburgh see Getaways Near Pittsburgh Page
Near Cleveland:
– For romantic getaways near Cleveland see The Ultimate Guide to Romantic Getaways Near Cleveland
– For cabin rentals near Cleveland see The Ultimate Guide to Cabin Getaways Near Cleveland
– For all kinds of getaways near Cleveland see Getaways Near Cleveland Page