If you’re looking for something fun to do in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, then look no further than Laurel Hill State Park. Located in Jefferson and Middlecreek Townships, this park features a 3,935-acre expanse of woods and water. It is known for its 63-acre man-made lake, which was constructed during the Great Depression by young men from CCC camps.
Laurel Hill State Park
Located in Jefferson and Middlecreek Townships in Somerset County, Laurel Hill State Park covers 3,935 acres. It features a 63-acre man-made lake that was built by CCC workers during the Great Depression. The park is also home to a number of other natural attractions.
Hiking at Laurel Hill is a great way to get a closer look at the park’s natural beauty. There are numerous trails available, including one 1.5-mile loop that runs between the oldest hemlock trees in the park. The park is also accessible by car, and driving the entire length is a nice way to take in the park. However, be aware that heavy rain may prevent some hikes.
If you’re planning a trip to Laurel Hill State Park, be sure to check its rules. The park does not allow aggressive pets and requires proof of current rabies vaccination before visiting. You’ll find several off-limits areas as well. If you’re looking for a unique experience, you can spend a day at this beautiful Pennsylvania park.
Laurel Hill State Park is a great place to visit for a family outing. The state park includes more than 4,000 acres of mountainous terrain, a 63-acre lake, and trails for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. Camping is also available, and there are more than 500 picnic tables. The campsites include restrooms and showers.
The park is also a great place to go birding. A variety of birds inhabit the park, including American toads, yellow-headed woodpeckers, and woodchucks. You can also see white-tailed deer in the park, but they are usually only spotted at dawn or dusk. There have also been reports of coyote and bobcat in the park.
Pumphouse Trail
Hiking the Pumphouse Trail in Laurel Hill State Park is a beautiful way to get some exercise while exploring the natural beauty of the area. The trail begins at the far end of the parking lot, and takes hikers up to the dam. This hike is great for all seasons, but fall foliage is especially spectacular. The trail is relatively flat, and you’ll pass by beautiful forest as you head towards the dam. You’ll also cross the Waterline Trail and the Shay Trail as you go.
The Pumphouse Trail connects to other trails in the park. You can start the hike from the Pumphouse Trail parking area, and then follow the paved path along the creek for a short distance. The first section of the trail is wide and easy to follow. At one point, you’ll come to a small diversion to the CCC-built Jones Mill Run Dam, where you can sit and watch the cascading water. After that, you’ll connect to the Martz Trail.
Another hiking trail is the Pumphouse Trail, a 1.6-mile trail that leads to the Jones Mill Run Dam, which was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. It’s one of the most popular spots in Somerset County. If you’re looking for a longer hike, you can also follow the Lake Trail, which follows the eastern shore of the Laurel Hill Lake. This hike is best done in the summer, when the weather is warm enough to enjoy the scenery.
Another hike in Laurel Hill is the Hemlock Trail. The hemlock tree was officially named Pennsylvania’s state tree in 1931, and this trail offers hikers the opportunity to take on the old growth forest. In addition to this, the Copper Kettle Trail is a flat, 1.25-mile path that parallels the western shore of Laurel Hill Lake. This trail is perfect for walking and biking. The Tram Road Trail, meanwhile, is a scenic 1.7-mile path along Jones Mill Run. It is also a favorite winter hike at Laurel Hill.
Tram Road Trail
Located in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, Laurel Hill State Park is a 3,935-acre park. The park includes Laurel Hill Lake, a man-made lake created by the CCC during the Great Depression. It is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and cycling.
The Tram Road Trail is a great trail that features footbridges over the water. The scenic trail also highlights a waterfall and an historic dam. You can hike the trail in all seasons, from summer to fall. Laurel Hill State Park is also home to a popular location for viewing fall foliage.
Hiking in Laurel Hill State Park is a great way to enjoy a beautiful day in the outdoors. Hikers can explore the surrounding forest and enjoy great views from the cliff face. There are also several short trails to explore. Visitors should plan on hiking two or three trails during their visit. The park is located on Laurel Hill Park Road, which is just a short drive from Seven Springs. If you’re a foodie, stop by Out of the Fire Cafe on your way there.
Another trail to explore in Laurel Hill State Park is Hemlock Trail. This trail offers a wonderful opportunity to hike through an old growth forest. The trail also offers a flat path along the western shore of Laurel Hill Lake. Visitors can also choose to bike on the Tram Road Trail, a 1.7 mile path that follows scenic Jones Mill Run.
Nearby attractions include Cole Run Falls, Ohiopyle State Park, and Somerset County.
Laurel Hill Lake
Located about 13.1 miles from Waynesboro in Lawrence County, Laurel Hill Lake is a great spot for fishing. The lake is home to several fish species including rock bass, bluegill, and sunfish. It’s also a great spot to go camping, with primitive sites located nearby. This lake also has fishing facilities, including a pier, boat launching ramps, and fish attractors. Bluegill and largemouth bass are particularly prevalent, and there are also sunfish and warmouth to be found.
A beautiful park setting makes Laurel Hill Lake a popular destination for family picnics and large groups. There are large lawns and a beautiful variety of trees, including hemlock trees that are around 200 years old. During the summer, you can rent a paddle boat, kayak, or pedal boat from the park’s office.
Laurel Hill Lake’s beach area offers some spectacular views. The ridge that flanks the lake’s opposite shore is a dramatic backdrop. The fine, sandy beach at Laurel Hill Lake is a popular destination for swimming in the warm months. This 2000-foot-high lake also has a picnic grove and a bridge that connects the two shores. In addition to the beautiful lake, the park has a picnic grove, walkways, and bridges to access the water.
Located within Pennsylvania’s state park system, Laurel Hill State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for families. The lake is the hub of summer activity, and thousands of acres of state park and forest lands surround it. Take your family on a trail to explore the park and observe the wide variety of wildlife and plants.
