Hemlocks, maples and oaks form a canopy over babbling books and fern-lined trails, making a perfect combination for hikers, fishermen and backpackers. In this remote corner of Fayette County, there are more than 7,000 acres to explore along the eastern slope of Chestnut Ridge. Seven trails within the wild area interweave to provide loop hikes and varying levels of difficulty. Because it is a wild area there are no facilities and visitors are asked to use proper back-country etiquette when visiting. With the varied topography and natural diversity, this area is a great place to explore year-round, but the most spectacular time is in the fall when the forest is in full color. Before you head out, contact the forest district office for a detailed map. Be sure to bring water and be prepared for the solitude this wild area provides.

Directions

Approximately 1.5 hours driving time from Pittsburgh

Take Route 51 South to Route 119 South. Follow 119 which merges with US Route 40. Stay on US 40 and follow signs to Laurel Caverns. At the top of the ridge, take a right just after The Summit Inn on Skyline Drive. Follow for approximately 5 miles and make left on Quebec Road. Follow approximately 3 miles and make a right into the parking lot (North Gate). For more information, call (724) 238-1200.

Printable Version
735k
* Once printed, the sheet of paper is designed to be folded twice.
(Therefore, the upper left-hand quarter will appear "upside down" on your screen.)

• With printed side facing up, fold sheet "long-ways" (along the map) so that the printing faces "out" on both sides (and resulting in a sheet about 4.25"x11")
• Fold in half again, so that the large photo faces "out" (the finished product should now be about 4.25"x5.5")

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