The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Laurel Summit State Park
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Family friendly hiking trails in Laurel Summit State Park are situated on Laurel Ridge within Forbes State Forest, offering a diverse landscape for outdoor exploration. The park's elevation of 2,739 feet above sea level contributes to cooler temperatures and varied terrain. Hikers can expect to find extensive trail systems winding through second-growth forests, leading to notable geological features and unique natural attractions. The region is characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and prominent sandstone outcrops.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Laurel Summit State Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Bog Trail, a 0.4 mile (0.7 km) trail that takes 10 minutes to complete. This easy path leads to the unique Spruce Flats Bog, known for its rare plant life.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Wolf Rocks Trail – Wolf Rocks loop from Laurel Summit State Park, an easy 3.4 mile (5.5 km) path. This route offers a walk through forested terrain to the prominent Wolf Rocks sandstone outcrop.
- Local hikers also love the Laurel Summit Loop, a 11.8 mile (19.0 km) trail leading through dense woodlands and offering scenic views, often completed in about 5 hours 20 minutes.
- Hiking in Laurel Summit State Park is defined by extensive forested terrain, unique bogs, and sandstone outcrops, offering panoramic views. The network provides options for various ability levels, including easy family-friendly routes and longer, more challenging trails.
- The routes in Laurel Summit State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 4 reviews. More than 60 hikers have used komoot to explore Laurel Summit State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
1
hikers
720m
00:11
0m
0m
Hike the easy 0.4-mile Bog Trail in Laurel Summit State Park, exploring the unique Spruce Flats Bog ecosystem via a boardwalk.
17.5km
05:04
450m
450m
Hike the challenging Wolf Rocks and Grove Run Trail Loop, offering panoramic views and rugged terrain in Forbes State Forest.
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9
hikers
5.46km
01:26
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
27.0km
07:28
480m
480m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
19.0km
05:19
400m
350m
Hike the difficult 11.8-mile Laurel Summit Loop in Forbes State Forest, featuring panoramic views from Wolf Rocks Overlook and unique bogs.
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Tips from the Community
This shelter area north of Route 30 is one of eight strategically placed along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Each shelter area has five Adirondack-style lean-to shelters, room for up to 25 tents, bathrooms, fire pits, and garbage cans. Overnight stays at shelter areas must be reserved ahead of time with Laurel Ridge State Park.
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This section of the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail connects to a trailhead right off Route 30 with parking, trash receptacles, and a registration mailbox for anyone picking up or leaving the trail here. It runs through Forbes State Forest, which doesn't just feature trees but also some streams, rhododendrons, and sandstone outcrops.
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Beam Rocks is a sandstone outcrop that rises about 90 feet above the surrounding forest. The rocks are a popular spot for day hikers and climbers. There is access via a short side trail here, but this is also a good spot to pause for a view of the rocks if you prefer to stay on the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail.
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The Grove Run trail makes a nice loop through rocky and wooded terrain. Things can get slippery after a rain so proper footwear is essential.
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Though Laurel Summit State Park is only 6 acres, the trails that start run for miles through Forbes State Forest and along the Laurel Ridge.
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The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail runs for just over 70 miles across western Pennsylvania. Closely following the Laurel Ridge the trail winds across a number of state parks and is great for short day hikes or longer overnight backpacking trips.
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It's hard to beat the view from the top of Beam Rocks. The best part is that it's accessible from a variety of different trails. You can do a quick out and back if you only have a short time, or take one of the many longer trails in the area and make it a day hike.
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Heading out the Laurel Summit State park, you can choose different paths to go deep into the Forbes State Forest. One of them is the Wolf Rocks Trail, that will get you to the marvelous viewpoint at the end, where you can enjoy the dense trees and refreshing air.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Laurel Summit State Park?
Our guide features 8 family-friendly hiking routes in Laurel Summit State Park, with 5 of them rated as easy, making them suitable for various ages and abilities.
Are there any trails suitable for toddlers or strollers?
Yes, the Bog Trail is an excellent option for toddlers and strollers. It's a very short, easy walk, less than a kilometer, leading to the unique Spruce Flats Bog where you can observe rare plant life and birds.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features to explore with kids?
Laurel Summit State Park offers several notable natural features. The Wolf Rocks Trail leads to the impressive Wolf Rocks sandstone outcrop, providing expansive views. Another popular spot is Beam Rocks, which offers a cliff lookout over the Laurel Highlands. Don't miss the Spruce Flats Bog, a unique wetland with carnivorous plants, accessible via a short stroll.
What is the best time of year to visit Laurel Summit State Park with family?
The park is enjoyable year-round, but spring, summer, and fall offer the most comfortable hiking conditions for families. Due to its elevation, temperatures are often cooler than surrounding towns, providing a refreshing escape during warmer months. Fall foliage is particularly stunning.
Are there any loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, the Wolf Rocks Trail – Wolf Rocks loop is an easy 5.4 km loop that's great for families. It allows you to experience the beautiful forested terrain and reach the scenic Wolf Rocks viewpoint.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Laurel Summit State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the unique natural attractions like Spruce Flats Bog and Wolf Rocks, making it a rewarding experience for families.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Laurel Summit State Park?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted on trails in Pennsylvania State Parks, including Laurel Summit State Park, as long as they are on a leash and owners clean up after them. Always check specific trail regulations before you go.
Where can we park when visiting Laurel Summit State Park for hiking?
Laurel Summit State Park offers designated parking areas that serve as trailheads for various routes. For example, there's parking available near the start of the Bog Trail and for access to the Wolf Rocks trails. These are typically well-marked upon arrival at the park.
What kind of wildlife might we spot on the trails?
The park's dense second-growth forests and unique bog ecosystem provide habitats for various wildlife. You might spot white-tailed deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals. The Spruce Flats Bog is particularly good for birdwatching due to its unique plant life.
Are there any facilities like restrooms or picnic areas in the park?
Laurel Summit State Park is known for its picnicking opportunities. While specific facilities can vary, it's a great place to enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature. For detailed information on available facilities, it's always best to check the official park website: Laurel Summit State Park.
What should we bring for a family hike in Laurel Summit State Park?
For a comfortable family hike, we recommend bringing plenty of water, snacks, appropriate footwear, sun protection, and insect repellent. A small first-aid kit is also advisable. Don't forget binoculars for birdwatching, especially near Spruce Flats Bog!
Most popular routes in Laurel Summit State Park
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