Did you know Laurel Lake is one of Pennsylvania’s few natural glacial lakes, formed over 12,000 years ago during the last ice age? This hidden gem in the Laurel Highlands region offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, Laurel Lake delivers unforgettable experiences in every season.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Laurel Lake is nestled in the picturesque Laurel Highlands region of southwestern Pennsylvania, approximately 90 km (56 miles) southeast of Pittsburgh. The closest major airports are Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) and Johnstown-Cambria County Airport (JST), with PIT offering more flight options and rental car services.
Ready to Visit Laurel Lake?
Start planning your perfect getaway with these travel essentials:
From Pittsburgh, take I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) east to Somerset, then follow Route 31 to reach the lake area. If coming from Philadelphia, take the Pennsylvania Turnpike west to Somerset, then continue on local roads. The drive through the Laurel Highlands is scenic year-round, with particularly stunning views during fall foliage season.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Laurel Lake experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences for visitors. The region’s climate features warm summers and cold, snowy winters with moderate rainfall throughout the year.
| Season | Months | Temperature | Highlights | Recommendation |
| Spring | April-May | 7-18°C (45-65°F) | Wildflowers, fewer crowds | Good time to visit |
| Summer | June-August | 18-29°C (65-85°F) | Swimming, boating, hiking | Peak season |
| Fall | September-October | 7-21°C (45-70°F) | Fall foliage, festivals | Highly recommended |
| Winter | November-March | -7-4°C (20-40°F) | Cross-country skiing, ice fishing | For winter enthusiasts |
The best time to visit Laurel Lake is from mid-September to mid-October when the fall foliage creates a spectacular display of colors, or during the summer months (June-August) when water activities are in full swing. Spring offers beautiful wildflowers and fewer crowds, while winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland perfect for cold-weather activities.
Months to avoid: November can be dreary with bare trees and unpredictable weather, while March and early April often bring muddy conditions during the spring thaw.
Getting Around Locally
The Laurel Lake area is best explored by car, as public transportation options are limited in this rural region. Having your own vehicle provides the freedom to visit various attractions at your own pace and access more remote hiking trails and viewpoints.
Car Rental Tips
- Book in advance during peak seasons
- Choose an SUV for better handling on rural roads
- Consider 4WD in winter months
- Gas stations are available in nearby towns
Alternative Options
- Local taxi services (limited availability)
- Rideshare services (spotty coverage)
- Bicycle rentals for exploring nearby trails
- Guided tour services with transportation
Explore at Your Own Pace
Secure your rental car today for the freedom to discover all that Laurel Lake has to offer.
Where to Stay
Laurel Lake offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From rustic cabins to comfortable lodges and nearby hotels, you’ll find the perfect place to rest after a day of exploration.
Lakeside Cabins
Experience the authentic charm of Laurel Lake with a stay in one of the rustic cabins available for rent around the lake. These accommodations offer direct lake access and often include amenities like fire pits, porches, and basic kitchens.
Price range: $85-150 per night
Nearby Hotels & Lodges
Several comfortable hotels and lodges can be found within a 15-30 minute drive from Laurel Lake. These options provide modern amenities including Wi-Fi, restaurants, and indoor pools, making them ideal for families.
Price range: $110-200 per night
Camping Options
For outdoor enthusiasts, Laurel Hill State Park offers well-maintained campgrounds with both primitive sites and those with electrical hookups. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer and fall weekends.
Price range: $20-40 per night
Find Your Perfect Stay
Book your accommodation early to secure the best options, especially during peak seasons.
Dining & Local Cuisine
The Laurel Highlands region offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases Pennsylvania’s rich food heritage. From farm-to-table restaurants to charming cafés and local breweries, there’s something to satisfy every palate near Laurel Lake.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Pierogies – Polish dumplings filled with potato, cheese, or sauerkraut
- Apple Stack Cake – A regional dessert with layers of apple filling
- Maple Syrup Products – Locally produced from the region’s sugar maples
- Pennsylvania Dutch Pot Pie – A hearty stew with square noodles
- Craft Beers – From local breweries like Helltown and All Saints
- Monongahela Rye Whiskey – The region’s historic spirit
- Chipped Ham Sandwiches – A western PA favorite
- Fresh Trout – Caught from local streams
Top Dining Spots Near Laurel Lake
Oakhurst Grille
A rustic restaurant offering farm-to-table cuisine with seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Their trout dishes and homemade pierogies are particularly popular.
Price range: $$
Summit Diner
A classic 1950s-style diner in Somerset serving hearty breakfasts, burgers, and homestyle comfort food. Don’t miss their famous apple pie and all-day breakfast options.
Price range: $
Laurel Highlands Brewing
Craft brewery with a taproom offering a rotating selection of beers and a menu of elevated pub fare including locally-sourced charcuterie boards and artisanal sandwiches.
Price range: $$
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Laurel Lake and the surrounding Laurel Highlands region offer a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors of all interests. From natural wonders to historic sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Top Attractions at Laurel Lake
Laurel Hill State Park
This 4,000-acre park surrounds Laurel Lake and offers numerous recreational opportunities. The park features a sandy beach, picnic areas, and the historic Jones Mill Run Dam, which is particularly beautiful during fall foliage season.
Laurel Hill Scenic Overlook
A short hike leads to this breathtaking viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Laurel Highlands landscape. Sunrise and sunset visits are especially rewarding for photographers and nature lovers.
Copper Kettle Trail
This popular hiking and biking trail winds through the forest surrounding Laurel Lake, offering beautiful views and opportunities to spot local wildlife including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.
Nearby Attractions
Fallingwater
Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece is located just 30 minutes from Laurel Lake. This iconic house built over a waterfall is a must-visit attraction in the Laurel Highlands.
Flight 93 National Memorial
A solemn tribute to the heroes of Flight 93, this memorial in Somerset County commemorates the passengers and crew who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.
Covered Bridges
The area around Laurel Lake is home to several historic covered bridges, including the picturesque Pack Saddle Covered Bridge and Barronvale Covered Bridge, both excellent spots for photography.
Explore Laurel Lake’s Best Attractions
Book guided tours and activities to make the most of your visit.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
The Laurel Highlands region surrounding Laurel Lake is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous museums, historic sites, and festivals celebrating the area’s diverse traditions and history.
Museums & Historic Sites
Somerset Historical Center
Explore the rural heritage of Somerset County through exhibits on maple sugar production, farming, and daily life in the 19th century. The center also features the relocated Walters Mill Covered Bridge on its grounds.
West Overton Village
This preserved 19th-century village includes the birthplace of industrialist Henry Clay Frick and showcases the history of Monongahela Rye Whiskey production with a museum and working distillery.
Lincoln Highway Experience
Learn about America’s first coast-to-coast highway at this museum in Latrobe, which features vintage cars, road memorabilia, and interactive exhibits about this historic route that passes through the region.
Annual Festivals & Events
| Festival | Timing | Location | Highlights |
| Laurel Highlands Maple Festival | March | Meyersdale | Maple syrup production demonstrations, craft fair, pancake breakfasts |
| Laurel Hill Bluegrass Festival | August | Laurel Hill State Park | Live music, camping, workshops, food vendors |
| Somerset County Fair | Late August | Meyersdale | Agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, carnival rides, local food |
| Laurel Highlands Fall Foliage Festival | October | Various locations | Scenic drives, craft markets, harvest celebrations, guided hikes |
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Laurel Lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering year-round recreational opportunities in a stunning natural setting. The lake and surrounding forests provide the perfect backdrop for activities ranging from water sports to hiking and wildlife watching.
Water Activities
Summer Water Recreation
- Swimming at the designated beach area with lifeguards (Memorial Day to Labor Day)
- Fishing for trout, bass, and panfish (valid PA fishing license required)
- Kayaking and canoeing on the calm waters (rentals available seasonally)
- Stand-up paddleboarding along the scenic shoreline
Winter Water Activities
- Ice fishing when conditions permit (typically January-February)
- Ice skating in designated areas when the lake freezes solid
- Snowshoeing along frozen shorelines and trails
- Wildlife viewing of winter birds and animals
Land Activities
Hiking & Biking
Explore over 20 km (12 miles) of trails ranging from easy lakeside paths to more challenging forest routes. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail passes nearby, offering connections to longer treks through the region.
Wildlife Watching
Bring your binoculars to spot diverse bird species including bald eagles, herons, and warblers. The forests around Laurel Lake are also home to white-tailed deer, black bears, and wild turkeys.
Winter Sports
When snow blankets the landscape, enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on designated trails. Nearby resorts like Seven Springs and Hidden Valley offer downhill skiing options.
Adventure Awaits
Book guided outdoor experiences and equipment rentals for your Laurel Lake adventure.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Ensuring a safe and respectful visit to Laurel Lake enhances the experience for everyone. Here are important safety guidelines and etiquette tips to keep in mind during your stay.
Safety Tips
- Water safety: Swim only in designated areas and observe posted rules
- Wildlife awareness: Keep a safe distance from wild animals and never feed them
- Weather preparedness: Check forecasts before outdoor activities and bring appropriate gear
- Trail safety: Stay on marked paths, bring water, and let someone know your hiking plans
- Fire safety: Use only designated fire rings and fully extinguish all campfires
Etiquette & Conservation
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and leave natural items where you find them
- Quiet hours: Observe posted quiet times in campgrounds (typically 10pm-7am)
- Fishing regulations: Follow Pennsylvania fishing license requirements and limits
- Pet policies: Keep dogs leashed and clean up after them
- Photography etiquette: Respect others’ privacy and natural habitats when taking photos
Emergency Information
Emergency Services: Dial 911
Park Office: (814) 445-7725
Nearest Hospital: Somerset Hospital, 225 S Center Ave, Somerset, PA
Cell Coverage: Spotty in remote areas; download offline maps before hiking
Visitor Comments About Laurel Lake
“Laurel Lake exceeded all my expectations! The fall colors reflecting on the water created the most magical scene I’ve photographed in years. Don’t miss hiking the Copper Kettle Trail for the best views of the lake from above.”
“We visited Laurel Lake with our family and found it to be the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. The cabin we rented was cozy, fishing was excellent, and the nearby Frank Lloyd Wright houses were fascinating. We’re already planning our return trip!”
“As an avid kayaker, I found Laurel Lake to be a hidden gem. The water was calm, the scenery stunning, and I appreciated how well-maintained the facilities were. The sunset views from the eastern shore are not to be missed!”
Practical Travel Tips
What to Pack
- Layered clothing for variable weather conditions
- Sturdy hiking shoes for trails and uneven terrain
- Insect repellent (especially May-September)
- Sunscreen and sun protection
- Reusable water bottle and snacks for outdoor activities
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera for capturing scenic views
Money & Connectivity
- Cash: Bring some as smaller establishments may not accept cards
- ATMs: Available in nearby towns but limited at the lake
- Cell service: Spotty in remote areas; download offline maps
- Wi-Fi: Available at most accommodations but limited at the lake
- Park fees: Check current day-use and parking fees
- Tipping: 15-20% is customary at restaurants
Local Insights
- Weekday visits mean fewer crowds, especially in summer
- Early mornings offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities
- Local farm stands provide fresh seasonal produce
- Gas up before heading to remote areas
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants and accommodations
- Weather changes can be sudden; check forecasts regularly
Your Laurel Lake Adventure Awaits
Laurel Lake offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences that make it a standout destination in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water, peaceful hikes through forests ablaze with fall colors, or a deeper connection to the region’s rich heritage, Laurel Lake delivers unforgettable experiences in every season.
As you plan your visit, remember that the true magic of Laurel Lake lies in its ability to connect visitors with nature and history in meaningful ways. Take time to savor the quiet moments by the shore, explore the hidden trails, and engage with local communities to fully appreciate all this special place has to offer.
Start Planning Your Laurel Lake Getaway
Book your accommodations, activities, and transportation today!
The above is subject to change.
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