Hiking in the Allegheny Mountains of Pennsylvania offers challenging trails which reward with fabulous views and experiences. On our recent adventure in Pennsylvania, we were able to savor a bit of a hike along a rolling, rocky trail in the Laurel Highlands in between rain storms. Treasures unfolded before us within the dense mountain forest impressing upon us that we must return to this wonderland when we have more time to explore.
 |
| Embarking on a mountain laurel-framed trail. |
We initially got a bit turned around looking for a trail. We eventually discovered a trail within Laurel Summit State Park A range of preserves exists in the area including Laurel Ridge State Park, Laurel Summit State Park, and Laurel Mountain State Park all folded within the larger Forbes State Forest. Laurel Mountain State Park is open seasonally from late December - mid-March and offers skiing. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail which is a large segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail traversing a range of landscapes from the mouth of the Potomac to the Allegheny Highlands is also nearby.
Interesting Fact: Forbes State Forest includes an amazing 59,000 acres of nature within three Pennsylvania counties -- Westmoreland, Fayette, and Somerset.
 |
| Moss-covered rock framed by mini mountain laurels on the forest floor of Laurel Summit State Park. |
Embarking on a Hiking Trail in the Laurel Highlands
We hiked for about an hour on the trail and immediately noted how blessed we were to have the break in the rain to explore. Hiking in the Laurel Highlands is absolutely breathtaking. The mountain laurel shrubs the region is known for are evergreens so their leaves stay green all year round. So, despite our adventure occurring during early spring, the forest green of the laurels heralded our visit.
Interesting Fact: Mountain Laurel is the state flower of Pennsylvania.
 |
| The mountain laurels of the Allegheny Mountains greeted us with rich, green leaves despite the dead, brown leaves of late fall still on the ground on our trail through the Laurel Highlands. |
The rugged and rocky trail yielded a bit of a challenge but actually was not as difficult as I expected. I think that we were overjoyed to be out of the car and savoring such gorgeous scenery. As we hiked, we discovered rocks of all shapes and sizes lovingly covered by Mother Nature with mosses and lichens. We also spotted ferns and cool clubmosses which look like little mini trees on the forest floor.
Truth be told, we actually prefer hiking after a light rain. Preserves tend to be quieter with few other hikers. Plus, more birds and wildlife tend to be out. So, this hike was blissful. We eventually rounded a corner and took in a peaceful view of evergreens adding a bit of a soft touch to the rugged landscape. We felt a world away hiking through the woodlands of a ridge up in the Alleghenies.
Interesting Fact The Allegheny Mountains are part of the larger Appalachian Mountain Range.
 |
| Needles of evergreens added a softness to the rocky landscape of the Laurel Highlands. |
Tranquility of a Laurel Highlands Waterfall
Unfortunately with incoming rain, we could only hike for about an hour. We loved this trail and look forward to a return visit to the Laurel Highlands. The region is full of incredible trails, many with mountain and valley views. We learned we would like to meander in the area to behold more of its natural treasures. While driving to the preserve, we relished a tranquil, breathtaking view of a waterfall. Memories of this nature zen moment beckon us to return.
 |
| Tranquil tiered cascade in the Laurel Highlands. |
We were able to incorporate a stop in the Laurel Highlands en route from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh. Laurel Summit State Park in Westmoreland County is about 1.5 hours from Pittsburgh, so a wonderful day trip if you are staying in the city. However, after our visit to the magical mountain region, I do recommend spending a longer respite. The surroundings certainly soothe the soul and leave you naturally recharged.
Post a Comment