Sometimes there’s no better way to spend a few hours than to get behind the wheel for a leisurely, scenic drive near Pittsburgh. We’re fortunate that Pittsburgh is so centrally located, making it an ideal launching pad for drives to destinations in Western PA, Maryland, Ohio, and West Virginia. Today, however, let’s set off on a leisurely drive along the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway.
So much natural beauty and fascinating attractions sit along the 68-mile stretch of the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway that you could even turn your leisurely drive into a road trip, if you’ve got the time.
Flickr/Jeremy Thompson
The Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway stretches from Fayette County, near the West Virginia border, to Seward. If you’re driving straight through, without stopping, the drive should take a little over two hours.
Flickr/Jon Dawson
However, even if you’re not turning it into a road trip, you probably want to allot more time for stops for food and to stretch your legs every now and then.
Flickr/David Fulmer
One of the highlights of the drive is Ohiopyle State Park, home to Cucumber Falls and Ohiopyle Falls. If you only have a few minutes to stop, pull over when you see the sign for Cucumber Falls.
Flickr/sk
You can view the waterfall from above (right by the parking lot) or walk down a set of stairs to admire it from the base. Ohiopyle Falls, on the other hand, is easily viewed from the Ohiopyle State Park Visitor Center.
Flickr/John Brighenti
While you’re in the area of Ohiopyle Falls, you’ll pass such attractions as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater in Mill Run and Living Treasures Wild Animal Park in Donegal.
Flickr/Deshpande
The scenic byway will also take you to the historic town of Ligonier, where you can dine at a charming restaurant, browse the quaint shops, or visit nearby Fort Ligonier.
Flickr/Jeff Kubina
Other attractions along the scenic byway include Laurel Ridge State Park, Kentuck Knob, and Fort Necessity Battlefield.
Flickr/David Fulmer
Click here for more information, including a map of the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway.
Flickr/Roy Luck
What is your favorite scenic drive near Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! If you’ve not yet taken a leisurely drive along National Road, add it to your to do list for this year.
Flickr/Jeremy Thompson
Flickr/Jon Dawson
Flickr/David Fulmer
Flickr/sk
Flickr/John Brighenti
Flickr/Deshpande
Flickr/Jeff Kubina
Flickr/Roy Luck
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Address: Laurel Highlands, PA, USA
