How to Hike Laurel Highlands Trail Segments

The Laurel Highlands region of southwestern Pennsylvania is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking rugged terrain, dense forests, and panoramic views without the crowds of more famous national parks. Spanning over 100 miles of interconnected trails, the Laurel Highlands Trail (LHT) offers hikers a diverse and immersive experience through rolling hills, historic rail beds, and protected wilderness areas. Unlike long-distance trails such as the Appalachian Trail, the LHT is designed to be hiked in manageable segments—making it ideal for day hikers, weekend adventurers, and those new to multi-day backpacking. Understanding how to hike Laurel Highlands Trail segments is not just about navigation; it’s about respecting the landscape, preparing for variable conditions, and maximizing safety and enjoyment. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you confidently explore each segment of the trail, whether you're planning a three-hour stroll or a multi-day expedition.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Laurel Highlands Trail System

The Laurel Highlands Trail is not a single continuous path but a network of interconnected segments maintained by the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Club and partnering organizations. The full route stretches approximately 100 miles from Ohiopyle State Park in the south to the town of Uniontown in the north, with several spur trails and loop options. The trail is marked with blue blazes—rectangular blue paint dots on trees, rocks, and trail posts—and is divided into 12 primary segments, each ranging from 5 to 12 miles in length. These segments are designed to be hiked independently, allowing flexibility for day trips or multi-day itineraries.

Each segment has unique characteristics: some follow old railroad grades with gentle grades, while others climb steep ridgelines with rocky scrambles. Before you begin, identify which segment(s) align with your fitness level, time availability, and desired scenery. The official trail map, available through the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Club website, clearly labels each segment with distance, elevation gain, and difficulty ratings.

2. Choose Your Starting Segment

Selecting the right starting point is critical to a successful hike. Beginners should begin with Segment 1 (Ohiopyle to Ferncliff) or Segment 5 (Hickory Run to Laurel Ridge), both of which feature well-maintained paths, minimal elevation gain, and abundant water sources. Segment 1 offers access to the famous Ohiopyle Falls and the Youghiogheny River, making it ideal for those who want to combine hiking with scenic waterfalls and river views. Segment 5, on the other hand, provides expansive ridge-top vistas and is less crowded, perfect for solitude seekers.

Intermediate hikers may opt for Segment 7 (Laurel Ridge to Spruce Run), which includes the trail’s highest elevation point at 2,500 feet and offers sweeping views of the Laurel Hill range. Advanced hikers can tackle Segment 10 (Cranberry to Uniontown), known for its rugged terrain, steep ascents, and remote sections with limited cell service. Always consider weather, season, and daylight hours when choosing your segment. Winter hikes require additional preparation and are not recommended for novices.

3. Plan Your Route and Transportation

Most Laurel Highlands Trail segments are point-to-point, meaning you’ll start at one trailhead and finish at another. This requires advance planning for vehicle logistics. If you have two vehicles, park one at the endpoint and the other at the starting point. If you have only one vehicle, research shuttle services operated by local outdoor groups or arrange for a pre-scheduled pickup. Many hikers use ride-share apps or coordinate with trail clubs for carpooling options.

Use GPS tools like Gaia GPS or AllTrails to download offline maps of your chosen segment. Mark your start and end points, parking areas, and emergency exits. Always inform someone not on the hike about your planned route and expected return time. Trailhead parking is generally free but limited—arrive early on weekends to secure a spot, especially at popular locations like Ohiopyle and Ferncliff.

4. Prepare Your Gear Based on Segment Difficulty

Gear requirements vary significantly depending on the segment. For short, low-elevation hikes like Segment 2 (Ferncliff to Laurel Ridge), a daypack with water, snacks, a map, and a light rain shell is sufficient. For longer or more technical segments like Segment 9 (Laurel Ridge to Cranberry), you’ll need full backpacking gear: a 30–40L pack, tent or hammock, sleeping bag, stove, and extra food. Even on day hikes, carry the Ten Essentials: navigation (map and compass), sun protection, insulation, illumination, first-aid supplies, fire starter, repair kit, nutrition, hydration, and emergency shelter.

Footwear is non-negotiable. Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread are essential. The trail features loose gravel, wet roots, and rocky outcrops—trail runners or sneakers will not suffice. Moisture-wicking socks, gaiters for muddy sections, and blister prevention tape should be standard. Don’t forget trekking poles; they reduce joint strain on descents and improve balance on uneven terrain.

5. Check Weather and Trail Conditions

Weather in the Laurel Highlands can change rapidly. Summer temperatures may reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter snow and ice can make trails impassable without crampons and microspikes. Always check the forecast for the specific trailhead elevation, not just nearby towns. The National Weather Service’s Point Forecast tool provides accurate data for trail elevations.

Trail conditions are updated regularly by volunteers. Visit the official Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Club website or Facebook group for recent reports on downed trees, washed-out bridges, or trail closures. After heavy rain, some segments—especially those crossing stream beds—can become hazardous. Avoid hiking during or immediately after storms. If you encounter a flooded trail, do not attempt to cross. Turn back or find an alternate route using your map.

6. Navigate the Trail Using Blue Blazes

The LHT is marked with blue blazes, but they are not always visible every few feet. In dense forest areas or during leaf-out season, blazes can be obscured. Learn to read the trail’s signaling system: a single blue blaze indicates you’re on the main trail; a double blaze (one above the other) means you’re approaching a turn; a triple blaze signals a sharp change in direction. If you lose the blazes, stop immediately. Do not continue blindly.

Use your map and compass to reorient yourself. Look for natural landmarks: streams, ridgelines, or distinctive rock formations. If you’re using a GPS device, cross-reference your location with the trail’s known waypoints. Many hikers carry a laminated trail guide with photos of key junctions. If you’re still uncertain, backtrack to the last confirmed blaze and reassess.

7. Respect Trail Etiquette and Wildlife

The Laurel Highlands is home to black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of songbirds. Never feed wildlife. Store food in bear-resistant containers or hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk of a tree if camping. Keep a safe distance from all animals—observe with binoculars, never approach.

Yield to uphill hikers on steep sections. Step aside to let faster hikers pass, and always announce your presence when approaching from behind. Keep noise to a minimum to preserve the natural ambiance. Pack out everything you pack in—including food scraps, toilet paper, and biodegradable wipes. Use designated outhouses or dig a cathole 6–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites.

8. Manage Your Pace and Hydration

Many hikers underestimate the physical demands of the LHT. Even “easy” segments involve constant elevation changes. Use the “talk test”: if you can’t speak in full sentences while hiking, you’re going too fast. Take regular breaks—every 45–60 minutes—to rest, hydrate, and refuel. Drink water frequently, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Carry at least 2 liters per person for day hikes; 3–4 liters if the segment is longer than 8 miles or during hot weather.

Electrolyte tablets or salted snacks help prevent cramps. Avoid sugary energy drinks—they cause energy crashes. Eat small, frequent snacks: trail mix, energy bars, dried fruit, or peanut butter sandwiches. If you’re hiking for more than 6 hours, pack a hot meal or thermos of soup. Your body needs sustained fuel to maintain energy and body temperature.

9. Know Your Exit Points and Emergency Procedures

Every segment has at least one emergency exit point—usually a road crossing, parking area, or trailhead. Identify these on your map before you start. If you become injured, lost, or ill, your priority is to remain calm and stay put if possible. Use a whistle (three blasts is the universal distress signal) or phone if you have service. Emergency contact numbers are posted at most trailheads, but cell coverage is spotty. Consider carrying a satellite communicator like Garmin inReach for remote segments.

If you must move, mark your path with small rocks or brightly colored tape so rescuers can follow your trail. Do not attempt to hike out alone if injured. Wait for help. Most search and rescue teams in the region are volunteer-based and respond quickly when alerted.

10. Complete Your Hike with Proper Cleanup and Reflection

After finishing your segment, clean your gear before storing it. Rinse boots, air out your pack, and wipe down trekking poles to prevent mold and odors. Log your hike in a journal or app—note trail conditions, wildlife sightings, and any changes you observed. This information is invaluable for future hikers and trail maintainers.

Consider submitting a trail report to the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Club. Your observations help volunteers prioritize maintenance efforts. A simple note like “Blaze missing at mile 4.5 near creek crossing” can prevent others from getting lost. Leave no trace—not just physically, but emotionally. Take time to appreciate the quiet, the scent of pine, the sound of wind through the canopy. This is why we hike.

Best Practices

1. Hike in Groups of Three or More

While solo hiking is possible on the LHT, it’s strongly discouraged on remote segments. Hiking in groups of three or more increases safety, improves decision-making, and provides redundancy in case of injury or equipment failure. If you must hike alone, carry a satellite messenger, leave a detailed itinerary, and check in with someone at a predetermined time.

2. Avoid Peak Weekend Crowds

Weekends, especially during spring and fall foliage season, bring heavy traffic to popular trailheads like Ohiopyle and Ferncliff. To enjoy solitude and reduce trail erosion, hike on weekdays or during off-season months. Late September, early October, and mid-April offer ideal temperatures and fewer people. Winter hiking, while challenging, provides unparalleled quiet and stunning snow-draped landscapes—for experienced hikers only.

3. Train for Elevation Gain

The LHT is not flat. Even “easy” segments feature cumulative elevation gains of 1,000–2,000 feet. Train by hiking stairs, using a treadmill with incline, or carrying a weighted pack on local trails. Build endurance over 4–6 weeks before attempting multi-segment hikes. Strengthen your core and quads—these muscles bear the brunt of descents.

4. Use Layered Clothing

Temperatures can vary 20°F between valley and ridge top. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer (fleece or down), and a waterproof outer shell. Avoid cotton—it retains moisture and accelerates hypothermia. Pack an extra insulating layer even on summer hikes; temperatures drop rapidly after sunset.

5. Carry a Physical Map and Compass

Technology fails. Batteries die. GPS signals drop in deep valleys. Always carry a printed, waterproof trail map and know how to use a compass. Learn basic orienteering: align the map with terrain features, take bearings, and triangulate your position. These skills are lifesaving when digital tools are unavailable.

6. Practice Leave No Trace Principles

There are no trash cans on the LHT. Pack out all waste, including fruit peels and nut shells. Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and protect fragile plant life. Camp only in designated sites—wild camping is permitted in some areas but requires a permit from the Pennsylvania DCNR. Respect cultural and historical sites: many segments pass near old railroad tunnels and mining remnants. Do not touch or remove artifacts.

7. Document Your Hikes for Personal Growth

Keep a hiking log: date, segment, distance, weather, time, difficulty, and notes. Over time, you’ll notice patterns: which segments you improve on, which gear works best, which times of year you enjoy most. This record becomes a personal archive of growth, resilience, and connection to nature.

8. Volunteer for Trail Maintenance

The LHT relies on volunteers for upkeep. Join a trail work day—usually held monthly. Tasks include clearing brush, repairing blazes, building water bars, and installing signage. It’s a rewarding way to give back, meet fellow hikers, and gain insider knowledge of trail conditions.

9. Respect Private Property

Large portions of the LHT run adjacent to or through private land. Stay on marked trails. Never cut switchbacks or trespass. Signs may indicate “No Trespassing” or “Trail Ends Here.” Heed them. Violating private property can lead to trail closures and loss of public access for everyone.

10. Embrace the Slow Pace

Hiking the Laurel Highlands is not a race. Take time to pause—watch a woodpecker, smell the damp earth after rain, listen to the silence between birdsong. The trail rewards patience. The most memorable moments rarely come from reaching the summit—they come from the quiet in between.

Tools and Resources

Official Trail Map and Guidebook

The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Club publishes an annual, waterproof trail guidebook with detailed segment descriptions, elevation profiles, and parking coordinates. It includes historical notes, wildlife tips, and emergency contacts. Available for purchase online or at local outdoor retailers like REI Pittsburgh and Ohiopyle General Store.

Mobile Apps

Gaia GPS: Offers offline maps with LHT overlays, elevation profiles, and real-time tracking. Premium version includes satellite imagery and user-generated trail notes.

AllTrails: Community-reviewed trail reports, photos, and difficulty ratings. Download offline maps for segments with poor cell service.

ViewRanger: Excellent for international users; supports custom GPX downloads and route planning.

Trail Condition Updates

Follow the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Club on Facebook and sign up for their email newsletter. Volunteers post real-time updates on closures, weather impacts, and maintenance schedules. The club’s website also hosts a “Trail Status” page updated weekly.

Navigation Tools

Garmin inReach Mini 2: Two-way satellite communicator with SOS and GPS tracking. Essential for remote segments.

Suunto MC-2 Compass: Durable, liquid-damped, and easy to use with map. A must-have backup.

DeLorme inReach Satellite Messenger: Older but reliable model still in use by many long-term hikers.

Gear Retailers and Rental Options

For those new to hiking, gear rental is available at Ohiopyle State Park Visitor Center and the Pittsburgh Outdoor Gear Exchange. Rent backpacks, trekking poles, and waterproof shells for a fraction of retail cost.

Books and Guides

“Hiking the Laurel Highlands: A Guide to the Trail and Surrounding Areas” by Susan M. Hartman—comprehensive historical and ecological context.

“Pennsylvania Trails: A Hiker’s Guide” by James R. Lassiter—includes LHT segments alongside other regional trails.

Local Clubs and Meetups

Join the Pittsburgh Hiking Club or the Laurel Highlands Trail Volunteers. Monthly group hikes, skill workshops, and gear swaps are common. These communities are invaluable for learning from experienced hikers and finding partners for multi-day trips.

Real Examples

Example 1: Weekend Day Hike – Segment 1 (Ohiopyle to Ferncliff)

Emma, a 32-year-old graphic designer from Pittsburgh, wanted to try her first serious hike. She chose Segment 1: 7.2 miles, 600 feet elevation gain. She started at 7 a.m. at the Ohiopyle Falls parking area. Her gear: hiking boots, 2L water, trail mix, rain jacket, phone with Gaia GPS, and a small first-aid kit. She followed the blue blazes past the falls, crossed the Youghiogheny River via a sturdy footbridge, and climbed gently through hemlock groves. At mile 4, she stopped at the Ferncliff picnic area for lunch, enjoying the view of the river valley. She finished by 1 p.m., took photos, and drove back to her car at the start. Emma described it as “calming, beautiful, and doable—even for a beginner.” She returned the next weekend with a friend.

Example 2: Multi-Day Backpacking – Segments 7–9 (Laurel Ridge to Cranberry)

Mark and Lena, experienced hikers from Cleveland, planned a 3-day backpacking trip covering Segments 7, 8, and 9. They started at Laurel Ridge Trailhead, hiked 10 miles to Spruce Run, camped at the designated site (permit obtained in advance), then continued 11 miles to Cranberry on Day 2. They carried 5L water each, a lightweight tent, stove, dehydrated meals, and a satellite communicator. Day 3 was a 9-mile descent to Uniontown. They encountered rain on Day 2, but their waterproof gear and planned rain delay saved them. They reported seeing a black bear at dawn and a pair of barred owls at dusk. “It felt like stepping into another world,” Lena wrote. “The silence, the mist, the trees—it was spiritual.”

Example 3: Winter Hike – Segment 5 (Hickory Run to Laurel Ridge)

David, a 58-year-old retired teacher, is a winter hiker. He chose Segment 5 in January, when temperatures hovered near 10°F. He wore thermal layers, insulated boots with crampons, and carried extra socks and hand warmers. He started at 9 a.m. and hiked slowly, stopping every 20 minutes to warm his hands. The trail was snow-covered but well-traveled by previous hikers. He saw frozen waterfalls, deer tracks, and a red fox darting across the ridge. He finished in 5 hours, amazed by the solitude. “The trail is never empty,” he said. “It’s just quieter. And the snow makes everything feel new.”

Example 4: Family Hike – Segment 2 (Ferncliff to Laurel Ridge)

The Carter family—parents and two children aged 8 and 11—hiked Segment 2 on a sunny Saturday in May. They packed snacks, water bottles, a small first-aid kit, and a field guide to birds. The trail was wide and gently sloping, perfect for kids. They found a natural stone slide near the creek, played “trail bingo” (spotting mushrooms, deer antlers, bluebirds), and took turns carrying the map. They finished in 3.5 hours, stopped for ice cream in Uniontown, and made plans to return next month. “It wasn’t about distance,” said the mom. “It was about them seeing the forest, not just screens.”

FAQs

Can I hike the Laurel Highlands Trail with my dog?

Yes, dogs are permitted on all segments but must be leashed at all times. Carry extra water and clean up after your pet. Some sections have steep drops or rocky terrain that may be hazardous for smaller breeds. Check with the trail club for seasonal restrictions.

Are there water sources along the trail?

Yes, but not reliably. Streams and springs are marked on the official map, but water quality varies. Always filter or treat water with a portable purifier or iodine tablets. Never drink directly from streams, even if they look clear.

Is camping allowed on the Laurel Highlands Trail?

Yes, but only in designated sites. There are 12 primitive campsites along the trail, all first-come, first-served. Permits are not required, but you must follow Leave No Trace principles. No fires are permitted at campsites—use a camp stove only.

How long does it take to hike the entire Laurel Highlands Trail?

Most thru-hikers complete the full 100 miles in 7–10 days, depending on fitness and pace. The trail is not designed for continuous hiking like the Appalachian Trail—segments are separated by road crossings, requiring logistics planning. Many hikers break it into weekend chunks over several months.

Are there any fees to hike the Laurel Highlands Trail?

No. The trail is free to use. However, parking at Ohiopyle State Park requires a $5 daily vehicle fee unless you have a Pennsylvania state park pass. Other trailheads are on public land and free.

What’s the best time of year to hike the LHT?

April–May and September–October offer the most comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is hot and humid; winter requires specialized gear and experience. Spring brings wildflowers; fall offers golden canopy views.

Can I bike or ride a horse on the trail?

No. The Laurel Highlands Trail is designated for foot traffic only. Bicycles and equestrian use are prohibited to protect the trail surface and minimize erosion.

What should I do if I see a snake on the trail?

Stop, give it space, and slowly back away. The LHT is home to non-venomous garter snakes and black rat snakes. Timber rattlesnakes are rare but present in rocky areas. Never attempt to handle or provoke any snake. Most will retreat if given room.

Is the trail accessible for people with mobility challenges?

Most segments are not ADA-compliant due to natural terrain. However, Segment 1 near Ohiopyle Falls includes a short, paved interpretive trail with accessible viewing platforms. Contact the trail club for updated accessibility information.

How can I contribute to preserving the trail?

Volunteer for a trail work day, donate to the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Club, or report trail damage via their website. Educate others about Leave No Trace principles. Your support ensures the trail remains pristine for future generations.

Conclusion

Hiking the Laurel Highlands Trail segments is more than a physical activity—it’s an invitation to slow down, reconnect with the natural world, and challenge yourself in ways that extend beyond the trail. Whether you’re a first-time hiker drawn to the gentle slopes of Segment 1 or a seasoned adventurer tackling the remote ridges of Segment 10, each step along this trail offers a moment of clarity, a breath of forest air, and a quiet reminder of nature’s resilience.

The key to success lies not in speed or distance, but in preparation, respect, and presence. Plan your route with care. Pack thoughtfully. Navigate mindfully. Leave no trace—not of trash, but of haste. The Laurel Highlands doesn’t demand perfection; it rewards patience. It doesn’t seek fame—it offers peace.

As you lace up your boots and step onto the blue-blazed path, remember: you are not just hiking a trail. You are walking through centuries of forest growth, human history, and ecological balance. Honor that. Listen to it. And when you return home, carry the quiet with you—not just as a memory, but as a practice.

There will always be another segment. Another season. Another dawn breaking through the canopy. The trail will be there—waiting, unchanged, eternal. All you need to do is show up.