Panoramic view
Areas in southern Somerset County are part of the Laurel Highlands with scenic views
The Daily American
LIGONIER – A year after one of the region’s state parks was named the most beautiful fall foliage destination in the United States, the entire Laurel Highlands region now has a chance to claim the honor.
A panel of expert judges and the editors of USA Today’s 10Best announced that Laurel Highlands has been nominated as the Best Fall Foliage Destination in the Readers’ Choice Awards. Individuals have the opportunity to support Laurel Highlands – one of 20 locations selected for the 2024 honor – by voting daily through September 9.
More: How to vote for Somerset in Outdoor Adventure Magazine
“It’s an honor to be selected by USA Today for our spectacular fall foliage,” said Ann Nemanic, executive director of GO Laurel Highlands, the official destination marketing organization for Fayette, Somerset and Westmoreland counties. “Over 3,000 square miles of the Laurel Highlands are transformed into rolling hills and meadows of lush color. There are numerous opportunities to capture the perfect photo. Leaf-peepers can hike to Pennsylvania’s highest point, Mount Davis, or stroll trails to expansive vistas in our state parks. Fall festivals invite weekend getaways with sugar maples as a backdrop. Our scenic byways provide an easy route to our incredible tourism attractions and help create the perfect fall getaway to Pennsylvania’s beautiful Laurel Highlands.”
In announcing the Laurel Highlands nomination, USA Today pointed out that in addition to its beauty, the region is a great travel destination because of its many activities.
“Autumn colors peak in mid-October in this region of the Allegheny Mountains, creating a breathtaking spectacle,” the USA Today article states. “The abundance of hiking and biking trails, including part of the Great Allegheny Passage, make it easy to explore the high country during peak season. Several fall festivals add to the region’s welcoming atmosphere each October.”
USA Today readers voted Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands region one of the top 10 fall foliage destinations in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
More: Day Trips: 12 Places for Family Trips in Somerset County
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, fall color lasts longer and is more diverse than any other state in the U.S.—or the world. With nearly 200,000 acres of pristine state forests, parks and hunting lands, the Laurel Highlands are an ideal destination for a fall getaway. A diverse tree population—some with their own distinctive fall color—line the region’s ridges and river valleys, creating a dramatic landscape.
There’s another reason to visit Laurel Highlands this fall, as Seven Springs Mountain Resort’s Autumnfest is nominated for Best Fall Festival in the USA Today 10Best contest. This contest also runs through September 9, with winners announced on September 18.
More: USA Today readers chose two local spas as the best. Why they were chosen
The Laurel Highlands region is a favorite among USA Today readers, with the three-county area being named one of the top five places to travel for summer 2024. Ohiopyle was named the best small town in the Northeast, and Foggy Goggle at Seven Springs Mountain Resort took first place as the best après-ski bar in North America.
Other 2024 Laurel Highlands award winners include the Great Allegheny Passage (Recreation Trail).
