Laurel Ridge State Park

The 70-mile hiking trail stretches along Laurel Mountain from the picturesque Youghiogheny River At Ohiopyle, Pa. to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown, Pa. The trail features overnight trail shelters that must be reserved in advance. Seasoned backpackers challenge themselves on the steep, rugged areas of the trails. Casual hikers enjoy areas that are reasonably level and pleasant for walking. This major 70-mile hiking and backpacking trail from Ohiopyle State Park to near Johnstown is the main feature of Laurel Ridge State Park. The trail traverses state parks, state forests, state game lands, other public lands and private lands. 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. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is open year-round and is blazed approximately every 100 feet with 2-inch and 5-inch yellow blazes. Connector trails lead to and from trailheads and shelter areas and are marked with blue blazes. Mileage monuments are every mile. Yellow bands around trees mark the trail at every major road crossing.