Laurel Highlands
Laurel Highlands
| |
|---|---|
Region | |
| Country | United States |
| State | Pennsylvania |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (EST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
The Laurel Highlands is a region located in southwestern Pennsylvania, United States. It encompasses parts of Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland counties. The region is known for its mountainous terrain, outdoor recreational opportunities, and historical significance.
Geography[edit | edit source]
The Laurel Highlands is part of the Allegheny Mountains, which are a section of the larger Appalachian Mountains. The region's highest point is Mount Davis, which stands at 3,213 feet (979 meters) and is the highest point in Pennsylvania. The area is characterized by its rugged landscape, dense forests, and numerous rivers and streams, including the Youghiogheny River.
History[edit | edit source]
The Laurel Highlands has a rich history that dates back to the Native American tribes who originally inhabited the area. European settlers began to arrive in the 18th century, and the region played a significant role during the French and Indian War and the American Revolutionary War. The area also has a strong industrial heritage, particularly in coal mining and steel production.
Attractions[edit | edit source]
The Laurel Highlands is home to several notable attractions, including:
- Fallingwater, a house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and considered one of his masterpieces.
- Ohiopyle State Park, known for its whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River.
- Seven Springs Mountain Resort, a popular destination for skiing and other outdoor activities.
- Fort Ligonier, a reconstructed British fort from the French and Indian War.
- Flight 93 National Memorial, which commemorates the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93, who thwarted a terrorist attack on September 11, 2001.
Economy[edit | edit source]
The economy of the Laurel Highlands is diverse, with significant contributions from tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. The region's natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities attract visitors year-round, supporting a robust tourism industry. Additionally, the area has a strong agricultural sector, producing a variety of crops and livestock.
Education[edit | edit source]
The Laurel Highlands is served by several school districts and higher education institutions, including Saint Vincent College in Latrobe and University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown in Johnstown.
Transportation[edit | edit source]
The region is accessible via several major highways, including U.S. Route 30, U.S. Route 40, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Public transportation options are limited, but there are several regional airports that provide access to the area.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Allegheny Mountains
- Appalachian Mountains
- Fayette County, Pennsylvania
- Somerset County, Pennsylvania
- Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania
- Frank Lloyd Wright
- Ohiopyle State Park
- Seven Springs Mountain Resort
- Flight 93 National Memorial
 | This Pennsylvania state location article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it. |
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
