The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is a 70-mile backpacking and hiking trail that runs from Ohiopyle State Park across Pennsylvania’s remote Laurel Ridge, traversing state parks, forests, gamelands, preserves and other public and private lands.  With elevations topping 2,700 feet, it offers excellent views of the surrounding valleys and watersheds, including the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown, Pa., and is outfitted with Adirondack-style shelters every eight to ten miles.  Both the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail and the eastern half of the Great Allegheny Passage are part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Network.

Hiker Information

The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is open year round and no permits are required for day hiking.  You must obtain a permit from Laurel Ridge State Park for overnight stays.  The trailhead in Ohiopyle is just off Garrett Street on the north side of the Youghiogheny River, with parking