Laurel Highlands Sustainable Recreation Development

The Laurel Highlands is one of the most magnificent areas in Pennsylvania. It includes Laurel Ridge, Chestnut Ridge and scenic river gorges with whitewater adventures on both the Youghiogheny River and the Stonycreek River. The Laurel Highlands also features Ohiopyle and six other state parks, Forbes State Forest and the Great Allegheny Passage Cumberland and Pittsburgh Trail.
Background: 
Hundreds of thousands of people - and in the case of Ohiopyle State Park 1.5 million people - visit attractions in the Laurel Highlands annually.  Most of these visits involve appreciation of our natural features and some type of outdoor recreation.  PEC is working with a variety of partners on a wide variety of ideas and projects to increase outdoor recreational opportunities and attract visitors to the beautiful Laurel Highlands while sustaining and restoring our natural resources.
Playing on the river's edge beside the Great Allegheny Passage.
Project Goals: 
The project seeks to develop sustainable world-class outdoor recreational amenities and better link those amenities to communities for economic impact.
Major milestones/successes to date: 
The project is in its early stages.  An inventory and feasibility study of trails and potential trails on Laurel Ridge has been initiated, along with an inventory of other assets in the region.
Current/upcoming plans: 

Several planning initiatives are under way.

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Program Contact Information

Brad Clemenson, 814-539-1889, ext. 307