Welcome to Laurel Ridge State Park, a breathtaking 13,625-acre park nestled along the scenic Laurel Mountain in Pennsylvania. This magnificent park spans across Cambria, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland counties, showcasing the best of the state’s natural beauty. Whether you enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply immersing yourself in stunning landscapes, Laurel Ridge State Park has something for everyone.
Key Takeaways:
- Laurel Ridge State Park is a 13,625-acre park located in Pennsylvania’s Cambria, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland counties.
- The park offers a 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, perfect for backpacking and day hiking adventures.
- Visitors can experience the park’s vibrant spring wildflowers, lush green forests, blooming mountain laurel and rhododendron, and stunning fall colors.
- In winter, Laurel Ridge State Park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
- Other nearby attractions include historic places, dining options, and additional state parks and forests.
Contents
Essential Information
When planning a visit to Laurel Ridge State Park, it’s important to have essential information at your fingertips. Here are some key details to keep in mind:
Park Size and Counties:
Laurel Ridge State Park spans a vast area of 13,625 acres, encompassing stunning landscapes across four counties in Pennsylvania. These counties are:
- Cambria
- Fayette
- Somerset
- Westmoreland
Opening Hours:
Laurel Ridge State Park welcomes visitors throughout the year, offering opportunities to explore its natural wonders from sunrise to sunset. Day use areas close at dusk, so it’s advisable to plan your activities accordingly.
Reservations:
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free visit, it’s recommended to make reservations in advance. Reservations can be made online or by calling toll-free 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757) between 7:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. from Monday to Saturday. By reserving your spot, you can secure your preferred accommodations and maximize your enjoyment of the park.
Park Highlights
The main highlight of Laurel Ridge State Park is the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which offers a unique semi-wilderness backpacking and day hiking experience. The park is also known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty throughout the seasons. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant spring wildflowers, lush green forests in summer, blooming mountain laurel and rhododendron in June and July, and stunning fall colors in mid-October. In winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
In addition to its majestic scenic hiking trail, Laurel Ridge State Park is home to a variety of wildlife species. While exploring the park, you might encounter white-tailed deer, wild turkey, foxes, red-tailed hawks, and even black bears. Keep your camera ready to capture these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
The seasonal beauty of Laurel Ridge State Park is a sight to behold. In spring, the park is painted with vibrant wildflowers, creating a picturesque landscape. As summer arrives, the forests become lush and green, providing a cool and refreshing escape from the heat. In June and July, the mountain laurel and rhododendron bloom, blanketing the park with bursts of pink and purple. In mid-October, the park’s foliage transforms into a stunning display of orange, red, and yellow, creating a breathtaking autumn panorama.
Winter at Laurel Ridge State Park offers a whole new set of activities. The park’s trails are perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, allowing visitors to explore the tranquil winter scenery. Bundle up and embark on an adventure through the snowy forest, admiring the beauty of the snow-covered trees and frozen landscapes.
“Laurel Ridge State Park offers a scenic hiking trail that showcases the park’s stunning beauty throughout the seasons.”
Witness the Beauty of Laurel Ridge State Park
Experience the park’s incredible scenic hiking trail, encounter fascinating wildlife, and immerse yourself in the seasonal wonders of Laurel Ridge State Park. Whether you visit in spring, summer, fall, or winter, you’re sure to be captivated by the park’s natural splendor.
Continue reading to discover the exciting activities you can enjoy during your visit to Laurel Ridge State Park.
Activities
Laurel Ridge State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
The park’s main attraction is the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which provides an incredible hiking and backpacking experience. This scenic trail stretches for 70 miles, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding nature.
If camping is your preference, Laurel Ridge State Park has you covered. The park offers organized group tenting and cabin camps, giving you the opportunity to spend a night under the stars within the peaceful wilderness.
For nature enthusiasts, the park provides ample opportunities for nature exploration. Take a leisurely nature walk to appreciate the diverse ecosystems and discover hidden gems. Wildlife watching is also a popular activity, allowing visitors to observe the park’s native fauna in their natural habitats.
Discover the wonders of hiking, backpacking, camping, and nature exploration at Laurel Ridge State Park. Experience the thrill of traversing the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, immerse yourself in the tranquility of camping amidst nature, and uncover the park’s hidden treasures through nature walks and wildlife watching. This is your chance to embark on an unforgettable adventure and create lasting memories in the heart of beautiful Pennsylvania.
Accommodations
Laurel Ridge State Park offers a range of accommodations to cater to the needs of its visitors. Whether you prefer sleeping under the stars or enjoying a cozy cabin, the park has something for everyone.
Camping Grounds:
For those seeking an immersive experience in nature, the park provides camping grounds where you can pitch a tent and awaken to the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Spend your nights under the open sky, gazing at the stars, and create lasting memories around a campfire.
Picnic Areas:
Enjoy a leisurely outdoor meal with your family and friends at one of the park’s designated picnic areas. Spread out a blanket, savor delicious food, and bask in the beautiful surroundings. The serene ambiance and fresh air will enhance your dining experience.
Organized Group Tenting:
If you are planning a trip with a larger group, the park offers organized group tenting options. These designated areas can accommodate multiple tents, allowing your group to stay together and enjoy the camaraderie of outdoor living.
Cabin Camps:
If you prefer a more comfortable and private experience, consider staying in one of the park’s cozy cabin camps. These cabins offer modern amenities while still allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Unwind in a peaceful setting and make yourself at home in the cabins’ inviting atmosphere.
Whichever accommodation you choose, Laurel Ridge State Park ensures that your stay is both memorable and enjoyable, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.
Exploring the Area
When visiting Laurel Ridge State Park, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, which is brimming with nearby attractions and picturesque landscapes. Situated in the beautiful Laurel Highlands region, the park is ideally located for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Just a short distance from the park, you’ll find the charming town of Somerset, which is rich in history and offers a range of activities. Somerset boasts several sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Somerset County Courthouse and the historic Somerset County Jail. History enthusiasts and architecture lovers will find plenty to explore in this quaint town.
In addition to historic places, Somerset offers a variety of dining and shopping options. From cozy cafes to family-friendly restaurants, you’ll find a range of culinary delights to satisfy your taste buds. After a day of outdoor adventure in Laurel Ridge State Park, indulging in a delicious meal is the perfect way to unwind.
If you’re looking to further immerse yourself in nature and outdoor activities, there are several other state parks and forests in close proximity to Laurel Ridge State Park. Ohiopyle State Park, known for its stunning waterfalls and whitewater rafting opportunities, is just a short drive away. Laurel Hill State Park, Kooser State Park, Linn Run State Park, and Forbes State Forest are also nearby, offering a diverse range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
Exploring the area surrounding Laurel Ridge State Park provides a well-rounded experience, combining natural beauty with history, dining, and shopping. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the nearby Laurel Highlands.
Planning Your Visit
When planning a visit to Laurel Ridge State Park, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the necessary information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Below, you’ll find details on how to get to the park, accessibility options, and emergency contacts.
Directions
You can easily find Laurel Ridge State Park by using GPS coordinates. The park’s northern terminus is located at Latitude 40.40858 and Longitude -79.00557, while the southern terminus can be found at Latitude 39.87117 and Longitude -79.49006.
Accessibility
Laurel Ridge State Park is committed to providing accessible options for all visitors. The park is ADA accessible, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can enjoy the park’s amenities and attractions. If you require any specific accommodations, please reach out to park staff who will be happy to assist you.
Emergency Contacts
While we hope your visit goes smoothly, it’s essential to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances. In case of an emergency, dial 911 immediately. Additionally, do not hesitate to contact a park employee for assistance. However, please be aware that any emergency response personnel and equipment may come at your expense. Hospital directions are conveniently posted at the park’s pavilion and the warming hut at the PA 653 ski area.
FAQ
How big is Laurel Ridge State Park?
Laurel Ridge State Park covers a total area of 13,625 acres.
Which counties does Laurel Ridge State Park span?
Laurel Ridge State Park stretches across Cambria, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland counties in Pennsylvania.
When is Laurel Ridge State Park open?
Laurel Ridge State Park is open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, with day use areas closing at dusk.
How can I make reservations at Laurel Ridge State Park?
Visitors can make reservations online or by calling toll-free 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757) between 7:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Monday to Saturday.
What is the main highlight of Laurel Ridge State Park?
The main highlight of Laurel Ridge State Park is the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which offers a unique semi-wilderness backpacking and day hiking experience.
What can I expect to see at Laurel Ridge State Park?
Laurel Ridge State Park is known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty throughout the seasons. Visitors can enjoy vibrant spring wildflowers, lush green forests in summer, blooming mountain laurel and rhododendron in June and July, and stunning fall colors in mid-October.
What activities can I do at Laurel Ridge State Park?
Laurel Ridge State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, backpacking, camping, and nature exploration.
What accommodations are available at Laurel Ridge State Park?
Laurel Ridge State Park provides camping grounds, picnic areas, organized group tenting, and cabin camps for visitors.
What are some nearby attractions to Laurel Ridge State Park?
Nearby attractions to Laurel Ridge State Park include the Laurel Highlands region, which offers historic places, dining options, shopping, and other state parks and forests for recreational activities.
How do I plan my visit to Laurel Ridge State Park?
To plan your visit to Laurel Ridge State Park, you can use GPS coordinates to find the park’s northern and southern terminus. The park is ADA accessible, and accommodations can be made for visitors with disabilities. In case of an emergency, call 911 and contact a park employee.
