Three state parks in the Laurel Highlands will offer visitors free sunscreen. "As the weather warms, it is critical people take the necessary steps to protect themselves from potentially harmful ultraviolet rays when spending extended time outdoors," said Cindy Adams Dunn, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) secretary.…

It’s a M.A.D., M.A.D. world for Laurita and Lauren Portee, stars of a new travel show who visited the Laurel Highlands for their first episode of “Get Out of Town.” M.A.D. is Laurita’s term for mother-and-daughter time, which she revealed as the Portees headed out on a road trip to the Laurel Highlands during filming for…

Mother Nature couldn’t have picked better weather for First Day Hike participants at Laurel Hill State Park on Jan. 1. About three dozen of us set out with Kimberly Peck, an environmental education specialist at the park, on a 3.5-mile, out-and-back hike to Jones Mill Run Dam. With temperatures hovering around 50 degrees, it was a…

Where to go trick-or-treating in the Laurel Highlands Halloween in the Laurel Highlands brings ample opportunity for the little ghouls and goblins to go trick-or-treating. We’ve gathered a list of published dates and times for municipalities in Fayette, Somerset and Westmoreland counties. Have a happy and safe Halloween! Fayette County Belle…

Yes, Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands have been consistently named one of USA Today’s 10Best Destinations for Fall Foliage. And, yes, there is nothing quite like our spectacular views, cozy campgrounds, and winding scenic byways. But that is just the beginning! When the temperatures start to drop and the colors start to pop, the…

Here comes the sun! Summer is kicking off in the Laurel Highlands and we've rounded up the best spots for cooling down. Warning: All of these spots pair well with onsite or nearby lodging and camping options, so stay a while and make it a fun getaway for the family! Idlewild & SoakZone When you take the family to Idlewild & SoakZone,…

Father’s Day is just around the corner! Need some inspiration for a special gift? I get it. Shopping for Dad or Grandpa can sometimes be trickier than shopping for Mom or Grandma. So I picked the brains of some of the father figures in my life and came up with this home-grown list of things your dear old dad might enjoy… For the Grill…

When you hear the word “camping,” what’s the first thing that comes to your mind? Roasting marshmallows? Campfires? Sleeping bags? Flashlights? Lightning bugs? Camping is a treasured tradition in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands and can be done in a number of different ways. Maybe it’s in an air-conditioned RV or…

There is no doubt about it. Since last spring the popularity of bicycling has skyrocketed. Folks who hadn’t ridden a bike since middle school found themselves back in the saddle, getting reacquainted with their gears and ability to balance. Full disclosure – this was me. I was one of the many who dusted off an old bike in search of…

Mother’s Day is this Sunday! Did you forget? It’s okay. Your secret is safe with me. If you’re looking for some inspiration to properly honor and celebrate your mom, your grandma, your step-mom, your mother-in-law, or a mother-like figure, take a peek at this list of cool things to see or do. For a full list of Mother’s…