Cross-Country Ski on Laurel Mountain
Pennsylvania › Laurel Mountain Warming Hut
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Activities:
Skiing, Snowshoeing
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Skill Level:
Beginner
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Season:
Spring, Winter
Enjoy scenic cross country skiing trails inside Forbes State Forest. The state forest offers 18.5 miles of groomed and traditional track. The elevation gain between 2,500' and 2,900'.
Start at the Loop trail, directly across from the warming hut. This groomed trail rolls smoothly along through native rhododendron, hemlocks and large rocks. From there you can connect to a number of trails: try linking from Albert trail to Picnic trail, then continuing on to Wolf's Rocks, where there are great views of the valley and adjacent ridges. Enjoy exploring the area—there are enough trails for a full day of skiing without repeats!
Don't forget to take advantage of the fire in the warming hut afterwards. Bring along some snacks and a thermos of your favorite hot beverage. If you are still hungry from a long day's ski, try the Pie Shop at the bottom of Route 30: great pizza, sandwiches and enough baked goods to sink a ship.
Driving Directions: From Route 219, exit onto Route 30 West. Continue for 7 miles then turn left on Laurel Summit Road. Follow for 2.5 miles until you reach the parking area and warming hut. Trail maps are available on the bulletin board outside the warming hut.
Pack List
- Cross country skis and poles.
- Sunglasses
- Water and snacks (there is a warming hut but no concessions)
- Small backpack for layers or extra gloves
I rent my skis in Donegal every time I go. Lots of trails, some groomed and some not. Keep your eyes out for snowmobiles on the main road (though they tend to keep a respectful distance and speed). There is a small lodge to warm up, go to the bathroom, and grab a trail map.
over 1 year ago
If it looks likes fun I'm probably gonna try it out. Cycling, photography, skateboards (not long ones) camping, hiking and whatever I have to do to keep me outside during the winter.
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