As the cool, crisp autumn air lifts the summer haze, hiking and bike trails in Pennsylvania come alive with color and beauty.

Outdoor lovers, grab your all-weather gear and head to the Laurel Highlands—where you’ll find a network of amazing Western PA bike trails and hiking grounds that are enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Famous Bike Trails of Pennsylvania

Where should your start your Western PA biking vacation? In addition to the miles of beautiful Laurel Highlands bike trails throughout our numerous state parks and preserves, Laurel Highlands is home to The Great Allegheny Passage. It's an award winning Pennsylvania Rail Trail, and it can be enjoyed by all, regardless of experience level. Families love it as a leisurely afternoon getaway, while experienced adventurists give it the "fist pump" of approval. You can bike (or hike) this 150-mile rail trail at a casual pace, or you can really get your heart pumping. No matter what kind of experience you seek, you'll be grinning from ear-to-ear well before you hit the first mile of this memorable Pennsylvania bike trail. You can even follow it all the way to Georgetown in Washington, D.C.

The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail

But don't leave Pennsylvania just yet. Not until you’ve trekked one of our region's most popular trails—the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which is part of the Potomac Heritage Trail. This celebrated Pennsylvania hiking trail runs from Ohiopyle State Park to the 1,000 foot Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown and in the Laurel Ridge State Park.

Along the way, you'll pass eight overnight areas—each equipped with Adirondack-style shelters, tent pads, comfort stations, and fresh water. Whether or not you stop along the hiking trail is up to you. But every 8 to 10 miles, you'll find one. So you're never really far from a place to rest, relax, or call it a day.

Pennsylvania State Parks and Reserves

Of course there are other fantastic places to get out and enjoy fall biking and hiking in PA. Check out all of our 10 state parks and forests or one of our nature reserves. You’ll find extensive PA hiking and biking trails eager for the opportunity to invigorate you amidst natural wonders that run the gamut from sparkling waterfalls and craggy rock formations to lush stands of trees and vivid fall foliage.

For more information, view our PA Biking, Hiling and Trail Service directory.