This cache is located in Laurel Ridge State Park at the trail head off Rt 271 west of Johnstown.
The 13,625-acre Laurel Ridge State Park stretches along Laurel Mountain from the picturesque Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle, to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown. This large park spans Cambria, Fayette, Somerset and Westmoreland counties. The main feature of the park is the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which provides the setting for a semi-wilderness backpacking and day hiking experience. Those with younger children or who would have problems walking a rocky trail can find this cache and access the shelters by taking the road which is located approximately 50 feet east of the parking circle at way point N 40 16.838, W 079 02.897.
Backpacking: The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is a backpacking trail that permits overnight trips to one or more shelter areas. The eight shelter areas are located approximately every 6 to 12 miles along the trail. Each area contains five Adirondack-type shelters with fireplaces, two non-flush toilets, a water supply and spaces for 30 tents.
Hiking: 70 miles of trails
This major 70-mile hiking and backpacking trail from Ohiopyle State Park to near Johnstown is the main feature of the park. The trail traverses state parks, state forests, state game lands, other public lands and private lands.
The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is open year-round and is blazed approximately every 100 feet with 2-inch and 5-inch yellow blazes. Connector trails lead to and from parking and shelter areas and are marked with blue blazes. Mileage monuments are every mile. Pets are permitted.
Stay the Night: Enjoy some solitude or bond with family or friends. You can get away from civilization for $4 per person per night (PA residents, non-residents $5.) You will need to register prior to staying overnight. Call 724-455-3744 and the rangers will make sure you have firewood
This is Featured Cache #27 of the Greater Johnstown/Cambria County Geotrail, which highlights the scenic and historic amenities of the area. Be sure to collect and record the Geotrail Code Word from in (or near, in the case of micros) the cache to your official Geotrail Passport, which can be obtained from the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. A map and list of all caches featured in the Geotrail can be found at Map Link or they can be bulk downloaded from the bookmark list.