The Beach Near Pittsburgh That’s Unlike Any Other In The World
Beth Price-Williams
Author
Laurel Hill State Park Beach in Somerset, Pennsylvania offers an escape from the heat and humidity of a summer day. A trip to this unique beach near Pittsburgh just happens to be nestled in the mountains. Sunbathe on the soft sand — swim or kayak — OR — explore the lush, green state park that boasts plenty of hiking and biking trails, wildlife, and a picturesque dam.
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Laurel Hill State Park Beach offers more information on the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website.
Make the most of every sun-soaked moment this summer. Have you visited this pretty beach? Please share your experience in the comments below. Shop for a new bathing suit on the REI website. While you’re there, explore this little-known trail in Somerset.
Hemlock Trail In Somerset, Pennsylvania Is So Little-Known, You Just Might Have It All To Yourself
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More to Explore
Beaches In Pennsylvania
Where are some of the best beaches in Pennsylvania?
- Bald Eagle State Park (Howard): The summer star of the show at this lovely 5,900-acre property is the 1,200-foot sandy beach that you can enjoy from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Restrooms, a playground, and changing rooms are available at this 1,730-acre lake with views of Bald Eagle Mountain.
- Chapman State Park (Clarendon): This 862-acre state park includes the 68-acre Chapman Lake where a beach provides the best summer fun. Enjoy concessions and fresh air at this sandy spot in the sun.
- Tatman Run Beach (Entriken): Located on the picturesque Raystown Lake, swim all day and catch some rays. Bring a lunch to enjoy at the picnic tables.
- Colonel Denning State Park (Newville): Surrounded by the enchanting Tuscarora State Forest, the sandy beach is open from late May to mid-September. Swim in the lake and explore the wooded property.
- Presque Isle State Park (Erie): This park offers a sandy coastline to enjoy while swimming, along with many other recreational activities, including hiking, boating, and fishing.
What are some of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania?
- McElhatten Reservoir Trail (McElhattan, Lockhaven): Located in Zindel Park, this moderately challenging, 5.4-mile out-and-back trail is on a gravel road offering some steep inclines and views of the lake. Other trails in this park include the 3-mile Zindel Falls and Keller Reservoir Loop in Lockhaven where you'll find the cascading falls 6-foot falls and peeks at the surrounding mountains.
- Mary Ann Furnace Trail (Hanover): This interesting and easy 2.2-mile loop trail sits in Codorus State Park and showcases some beautiful birds, including chickadees, bluebirds, and woodpeckers. When the lake is low, it is possible to see remnants of life before.
- Skyline Trail (White Haven): Another easy hike is at Hickory Run State Park, which offers pretty views of the Lehigh River. Skyline Trail is a 3.4-mile loop trail where you'll explore open meadows and rich forested areas.