Laurel Mountain PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Laurel Mountain, Pennsylvania.
1. Fallingwater
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT MASTERPIECE
Fallingwater is an iconic house designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings and waterfall. Visitors can tour this UNESCO World Heritage site to experience Wright's revolutionary architectural vision that harmonizes human habitation with nature.
2. Flight 93 National Memorial
HISTORIC NATIONAL MONUMENT
Flight 93 National Memorial honors the passengers and crew who lost their lives during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The solemn memorial features a visitor center, memorial plaza, and the Wall of Names commemorating the 40 heroes who prevented the plane from reaching its intended target.
3. Ohiopyle State Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARADISE
Ohiopyle State Park offers 20,500 acres of natural beauty featuring rushing waterfalls, white water rafting on the Youghiogheny River, and miles of hiking trails. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities ranging from mountain biking and rock climbing to fishing and camping throughout all four seasons.
4. Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail
SCENIC LONG-DISTANCE PATH
The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail stretches over 70 miles across western Pennsylvania, closely following the scenic Laurel Ridge through multiple state parks. This well-maintained trail offers everything from short day hikes to multi-day backpacking adventures with breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and valleys.
5. Wolf Rocks
PANORAMIC FOREST OVERLOOK
Wolf Rocks features an impressive collection of boulders offering spectacular west-facing views over Forbes State Forest. Hikers are rewarded with sweeping vistas of Linn Run Valley and Chestnut Ridge surrounded by dense, verdant forestry.
6. Beam Rocks
ACCESSIBLE SCENIC VIEWPOINT
Beam Rocks provides unbeatable panoramic views accessible via several different trail options of varying difficulty. The rocky outcrop offers a perfect spot for photography, picnicking, or simply taking in the natural beauty of the Laurel Highlands landscape.
7. Linn Run State Park
SERENE FOREST RETREAT
Linn Run State Park is a tranquil natural area situated along Linn Run, an excellent trout stream flowing through lush forests. Visitors can explore short trails leading to highlights like Adams Falls and Flat Rock while enjoying opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
8. Kentuck Knob
ARCHITECTURAL MOUNTAIN GEM
Kentuck Knob is a stunning Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home built on a bluff overlooking the Youghiogheny River Valley. The house exemplifies Wright's Usonian architectural style with its hexagonal design, native sandstone construction, and remarkable integration with its mountaintop setting.
9. Seven Springs Mountain Resort
FOUR-SEASON RECREATION DESTINATION
Seven Springs Mountain Resort offers year-round outdoor recreation with winter skiing and snowboarding on 33 slopes and trails, and summer activities including hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. The family-friendly resort features multiple dining options, a spa, and accommodations ranging from hotel rooms to mountainside condos.
10. Laurel Caverns
UNDERGROUND CAVE ADVENTURE
Laurel Caverns is Pennsylvania's largest cave system, featuring three miles of passages beneath Chestnut Ridge with ceilings as high as 50 feet. Visitors can choose between guided educational tours along well-lit pathways or more adventurous spelunking expeditions through undeveloped sections of the cave.
11. Fort Ligonier
HISTORIC COLONIAL FORTRESS
Fort Ligonier is a meticulously reconstructed 18th-century British fort from the French and Indian War featuring authentic artillery, a museum, and educational exhibits. Visitors can explore the grounds with costumed interpreters who bring history to life through demonstrations of colonial military life and period crafts.
12. Laurel Mountain Ski Resort
HISTORIC DOWNHILL SKIING
Laurel Mountain Ski Resort boasts the steepest slope in Pennsylvania, with a rich history dating back to 1940 when it was designed for the Rolling Rock Club. Winter sports enthusiasts appreciate the challenging terrain, uncrowded slopes, and the historic Wildcat Lodge that serves as its base lodge.
13. Forbes State Forest
VAST WILDERNESS ESCAPE
Forbes State Forest encompasses over 60,000 acres across three counties in the Laurel Highlands, offering pristine wilderness and outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can explore hundreds of miles of hiking trails, including access to Mount Davis, the highest point in Pennsylvania, while enjoying activities like hunting, fishing, and wildlife watching.
14. Living Treasures Wild Animal Park
INTERACTIVE WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Living Treasures Wild Animal Park provides up-close encounters with over 50 species of exotic and native animals in a family-friendly environment. Visitors can hand-feed many of the animals, including deer, goats, and various birds, while learning about wildlife conservation and animal habitats.
15. Laurel Hill State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Laurel Hill State Park centers around a 63-acre lake surrounded by forests and meadows, offering swimming, fishing, boating, and camping amenities. History enthusiasts can appreciate the park's CCC-era structures while outdoor lovers enjoy the extensive trail system through diverse habitats ranging from wetlands to mature forests.